News Spotlight

Here are a few tips from the service experts at Delphi to make sure your shop is geared up to cool-off even the most heated A/C repairs.

Equipment Checks

Your ability to effectively service today's A/C systems is dependent not only on know-how, but how well your equipment performs. Key devices such as the refrigerant identifier, electronic leak detection tool and temperature gun all need to be tested and adjustments made, as required, to ensure they are performing to manufacturer specifications. You don't want the first repair of the season to be the time when you discover an equipment problem or failure. A little preventative maintenance will go a long way.

Refrigerant Recovery/Recycle & Charging Station

This all-important tool needs a complete pre-season inspection. Areas of concentration include:

• Changing the oil in the vacuum pump
• Calibrating the scales and gauges
• Inspecting all hoses for cracks and splits
• Checking the gauges for leaks
• Purging the storage tanks of air
• Replacing particulate and oil filters
• Examining the O-rings at the service couplers for wear

To avoid inaccurate measurements by the recovery reservoir, you should also check it for "leftover" oil from the previous season.

A deep vacuum test is also highly recommended. If your unit can't achieve a deep vacuum, you won't be able to secure a proper charge of the refrigerant and oil following a repair. An improper refrigerant charge can lead to premature component failures, particularly with compressors.

EPA Certifications

Each technician needs to be certified by the Environmental Protection Agency to handle refrigerants. Given that testing is involved to obtain the certification, timing can become an issue. Don't wait - take the steps necessary to lineup any training and testing.

Oil and O-Rings

Most A/C system oils and lubricants have a shelf life. Using anything that's past the expiration date could damage the system you've just repaired. Survey your inventory and replace as needed. Another good supply check is O-rings. These, too, won't last forever. They should be inspected for cracks and splitting.

Making sure your equipment is in proper working order before the A/C season kicks into high gear will go a long way toward minimizing repair delays and potential comebacks.

Consider Upgrading Your Tool Box

Unfortunately, spanner wrenches won't work on newer-style compressor clutches. If you haven't invested yet in a compressor turning tool, now's the time. You might also want to consider adding a tool such as Delphi's new A/C Analyzer to your tool box. This unique device measures eight key air-conditioning system areas to help take the guesswork out of servicing today's A/C systems. The hand-held, wireless device links to any Bluetooth¨-equipped PDA and services R-134a systems. Both the Delphi Compressor Turning Tool and A/C Analyzer are available through Delphi distributors.

Getting ready for the A/C season doesn't have to be a hassle. It just takes a little planning and attention to detail.