Section 12-00: Climate Control System, Service
1996 F-150, F-250, F-350, F-Super Duty and Bronco, F-Super Duty Motorhome Chassis Workshop Manual
SERVICE PROCEDURES

System Charging

 

Charging with a Charging Cylinder

  1. With the Rotunda R-134a Manifold Gauge Set 176-R032A or equivalent valves closed, disconnect the vacuum pump from the manifold gauge set.

  1. Connect the center hose of the manifold gauge set to a refrigerant charging cylinder if a Rotunda A/C Service Center 176-00001 or equivalent is not available. If an A/C service center is available, follow manufacturer's instructions for proper use.

  1. Loosen the center hose at the manifold gauge set manifold and open the refrigerant cylinder valve. This will allow refrigerant to escape through the loose hose connection, which will result in all air being purged from the hose before entering the A/C system. When a slight hissing sound is heard at the loose connection, retighten the loose hose connection.

  1. Open the low-pressure valve on the manifold gauge set and allow refrigerant to enter the A/C system. Keep the refrigerant supply in an upright position to prevent liquid refrigerant from entering the A/C system.

  1. When no more refrigerant will enter the A/C system, start the vehicle with the function selector set in the MAX A/C position, the heater blower motor switch (18578) set in the high position and the temperature control set in full cool.

  1. Continue to add refrigerant until the specified amount of R-134a has entered the system.

  1. Close the valves on the manifold gauge set and the refrigerant supply.

  1. Continue to operate the A/C system until operating pressures stabilize.

  1. Check the A/C system for proper operation and system pressures.