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AC Out and Pressure Readings Fluctuating
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Agwood75
New User
Aug 16, 2023, 8:29 AM
Post #1 of 2
(393 views)
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AC Out and Pressure Readings Fluctuating
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My 2015 Chrysler Town & Country 3.6L AC has been gradually getting warmer until recently it completely went out and only blows slightly cold to luke warm air. I do not see any visible leaks and there are no strange sounds or smells coming from the system. When I turn the ac on the compressor clutch kicks on and visually it seems that it’s working fine. The high pressure lines are hot to the touch and the low pressure is not cold, but is colder than the surrounding engine compartment. I hooked up the pressure gauges to the high and low side and got the following reading.
It was 72-75 degrees outside when I tested.
With the car warmed up but off the readings were 90 psi on the high and low side. With car on and the ac off the readings were the same. When I turn the ac on the low drops to about 20 psi and the high goes to 100psi. It will stay at that pressure for a few seconds and then gradually rises up to 40 psi on the low side and up to 210 on the high side, stay there for a few seconds and then drop back down. It then gradually drops back down to 20-22 psi low and 100-105 psi on the high side. It will continue fluctuating up to 40-42 low and 210-215 on the high side and down to 20-22 low and 100-105 high. I had it running for about 20 minutes, and this just kept happening consistently. The rise and falls happen simultaneously on both high and low and are gradual.
I’m afraid to add more r134a due to the high side readings. Any ideas on what the issue might be?
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Hammer Time
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Aug 16, 2023, 8:50 AM
Post #2 of 2
(384 views)
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Re: AC Out and Pressure Readings Fluctuating
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This is why AC repair is not a DIY job.
There are so many factors to be considered here. This system uses a 2 speed cooling fan that will dramatically change the operating pressures.
This is why you just cannot arbitrarily add refrigerant to this system. This can only be diagnosed one way.
You have to completely evacuate the system, apply vacuum and charge it to the EXACT specified WEIGHT of refrigerant before the pressures can mean anything at all.
Refrigerant is a colorless and odorless gas so you aren't going to see a leak if it has one. Chrysler vans are notorious for leaking evaporators which can be very difficult to leak check.
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We offer help in answering questions, clarifying things or giving advice but we are not a substitute for an on-site inspection by a professional.
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