Refrigerant Recovery

Ford Motor Co. supports the efficient usage, recovery, and recycling of R-134a used in car and truck air conditioners. Ford Motor Co. recommends the use of an U.L. approved recovery/recycling device such as Rotunda R-134a Mobile Recycling Center 023-00150 (or other device which meets SAE Standard J1991) during any air conditioning system repair and recharge procedure that requires the air conditioning system to be discharged.

Additional information and a typical procedure for operating a refrigerant recovery device follows:

Refrigerant recovery systems and recycling stations are in use in an increasing number of automotive air conditioning service facilities. The use of such equipment makes possible the recovery and use of air conditioning system refrigerant after contaminants and moisture have been removed.

If a refrigerant recovery or recycling station is used, the following general procedures should be observed, in addition to the operating instructions provided by the equipment manufacturer.

 CAUTION: Use extreme care and observe all safety and service precautions related to the use of refrigerants.

NOTE: Hoses should have shutoff devices or check valves within 305mm (12 inches) of the hose end to minimize the introduction of non-condensable gases (air) into the recycling station and to minimize the amount of refrigerant released when the hose(s) is (are) disconnected.

1. Connect the refrigerant recycling station hose(s) to the vehicle air conditioning service ports and the recovery station inlet fitting.

2. Turn the power to the recycling station on to start the recovery process. Allow the recycling station to pump the refrigerant from the system until the station pressure goes into a vacuum. On some stations, the pump will be shut off automatically by a low pressure switch in the electrical system. On other units it may be necessary to manually turn off the pump.

3. Once the recycling station has evacuated the vehicle air conditioning system, close the station inlet valve (if so equipped). Then, switch off the electrical power.

4. Allow the vehicle air conditioning system to remain closed for about two minutes. Observe system vacuum level as shown on the gauge. If the pressure does not rise, disconnect the recycling station hose(s).

5. If the system pressure rises, repeat the above three steps until the vacuum level remains stable for two minutes.

6. Perform required service operations, evacuate and recharge the air conditioning system.