2004 X5 4.4i AC questions...HELP

[Johnny_5]

So I just noticed recently that my AC is cold on my drivers side far left side, middle (2nd) towards the drivers is cold but not as cold and as it goes to the (3rd) passenger middle and on its warmer. After doing some research I found that its possible Im low on Freon.

So my question is for ones who are familiar with the recharging process:

Has anyone used the Recharging kits with the vacuum pump with the 2 gauge setup (high / low and vacuum / charging hoses)?

Dont I need a tank when using the vacuum process? Because all the videos I see I dont see any so when its doing the vacuum isnt that pulling freon from the system?

Dont want to overcharge the system doing this myself as I heard that can open a whole new can of worms

Any advise, process, suggestions, etc would be grately appreciated!

Johnny

[80stech]

You might want to check the heater control valve, it has separate valves for right and left and could be that one of yours is not closing.

[Johnny_5]

Originally Posted by 80stech

You might want to check the heater control valve, it has separate valves for right and left and could be that one of yours is not closing.

I tried playing with that as well. Went to hot to cold and back, etc and still having issues with it on cold. Had the AC on MAX as well and didnt see any improvements. Is there another way to verify that is not the issue?

[80stech]

Check the temp of the hoses, 2 of three hoses will stay hot if one of the valves isn't closing. If all 3 hoses get hot with heat and cool when A/C is turned on then you can assume the heater valve is working.

Are the small cans and "charging kits" even legal there ???
Yes, technically/legally you need a recovery station with tank, I would think especially in California.

[X5chemist]

Videos are probably from completely empty systems. If it's empty, the pump mostly pulls atmosphere out of it. A good system vacuum will suck in a complete R134 can. The second can goes in when it's running. Using temp/pressure chart, it's easy to charge up properly. Plus don't go over too much over its capacity. The auto temps settings in mine really don't work. Otherwise, it wouldn't get to 42F driving around.

[BimmerBreaker]

It could certainly be caused by a mechanical fan failure, or a charge issue.