Need Help With Air Conditioning Schrader Valves

[razorboy]

Hey Guys,

My AC hasn't been working since I bought my 2002 X5 3.0
I just had my other car serviced and decided to check the X5 when I got back. One of the schrader valves is leaking so it's probably lost enough 134 to kick in the low pressure switch.

My question is:
Are these AC valves universal in any way?
I need to know if I have to source the valves from BMW or OEM or is are these valves pretty generic?

Cheers
Bernie

[Zulu95]

Our 2001 developed a leaking valve. I found out then that the factory valves were not the standard valve but that BMW offered a replacement kit which converted the valves over to standard parts that any AC shop could service.
If memory serves the kits cost $11 per valve.
GL.

[upallnight]

Leave it to BM Trouble U to develop their own standards.

[upallnight]

When it comes time for you to replace the schrader you must have the system empty of all refrigerant. Removing the valve with the system partially filled can results in frost bite if your hand is near the opening. The refrigerant is passing from a high pressure area through a small opening which result in the Bernoulli's principle of fluid dynamic.

[razorboy]

Originally Posted by upallnight

When it comes time for you to replace the schrader you must have the system empty of all refrigerant. Removing the valve with the system partially filled can results in frost bite if your hand is near the opening. The refrigerant is passing from a high pressure area through a small opening which result in the Bernoulli's principle of fluid dynamic.

Thanx for the replies fellas.
Yea, I have a guy that does my AC refills for me. He also has this really cool tool that allows the removal and replacement of the schrader valves without releasing any refrigerant. Really cool piece. Might not be able to use it in this instance though but nevertheless, he will be doing the recharge not me and he has a lot of experience.

Cheers

[upallnight]

O.K. thought you were going to do the work yourself since you were posting the question. I seen that tool, but it for a STANDARD schrader valve.

[Bayerische E53]

I have to say I've never before heard the term "BMTroubleU." Made me laugh. Witty indeed.

[upallnight]

I use to say BMUU AKA BM double U. BMW owners at some other forum got mad at me for always say it a BMUU until I told them why.
Most people in the States pronounce it incorrectly. It's pronounce BM Vay.

Just like Porsche is pronounce Por Sha, not Porch.