A common leak point in our vans is the front condenser. Fun Bus had one
replaced while it was still under warranty! I have repaired or replaced many
over the years.
Many of us have changed our systems to the R-134 with the adapter fittings.
Many of the available conversion fittings do not work properly especially on
the VW  ports. I try to get the adapter kit from VW but it seems they are
being discontinued.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
JRodgers
Sent: Saturday, July 07, 2012 5:17 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: AC Servicing

Lost the cool over time in my red vanagon. The AC system was gone completely
through early last fall, with all new seals,vacuum and pressure checks, new
compressor, expansion valve, dryer, etc. Gave it the whole nine yards.
Worked great until recently. In this summer heat I have been running the
system hard, and have slowly lost the cool. So - I have been studying
Youtube videos to learn about AC, and get examples on how to self service.
Have learned a lot. One video in particular caught my attention and that was
regarding the Shraeder valves used in the high and low pressure service
ports. I have learned that 80% of the leaking of refrigerant from the AC
systems is from the Shrader valves. The remaining 20% is of course from
other points in the systems. But this makes the case for checking the
Shraeder valve as the first items on the maintenance checklist. Of course
that can be done the same way one might check a propane tank - light a
match, right? Of course I jest here - but using soapy water on the valve
same a for a propane tank will show any leak at the Shraeder. If one has a
leak, it raises the question: How does one change out the Shraeder valve
without loosing the refrigerant?
Well, turns out there is a little tool specially designed to do the job.
Works slick as a whistle. Here is a link to a Youtube video showing a
Shraeder valve change out using that little tool.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cfm6m01FfeI&feature=endscreen&NR=1

The videos on Youtube about AC systems and servicing are well worth
watching. Takes the mystery out of AC.

Regards,

John Rodgers