AC Recharge Valve Choice
 

I would like to top off the AC system in the 2003 X5 3.0. From other posts it seems simple enough. I do want to verify the valve to use. I believe "A" is correct based on another thread. Can anyone confirm? (NOTE: my annotation is poor ... "A" is the "shrader valve" on the left and "B" is the "shrader valve" on the right)

Just discovered that the valves are of two different sizes so no chance for a wrong choice. Cheers.

make sure you know what you are doing, as you can destroy the compressor by introducing liquid r134a into the system. consider consulting a professional with the correct tools to measure the amount of r134a is in the system and then to recharge to the right spec. if over filled it may act like a system charge that is low.

Yes, they are different sizes and "A" is the correct answer! :thumbup:

+1. This guy knows what he is talking about. I agree, take it to a pro.

+2

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AC Recharge:
Symptom no cold air in cabin with AC turned on and AC compressor not working.

I purchased a 22oz R134a can from the local auto parts store (too large I know but came with a gauge and service hose and I have another recharge to do so not a waste). I attached the can to the hose and the hose to the schrader valve then started car. Initial pressure reading was about 15 psi (remember that this is a cheap gauge). I started to fill with R134a. At about 20-25 psi the compressor turned on (this was expected based on my experience with a 1996 Chevy Tahoe that has a safety switch to kill the compressor when low pressure is signaled). I filled to 35 psi. Air out of the dash vents was well-beyond cold, call it frosty. So I will monitor pressure to see if I have a substantial leak or whether this was just normal loss over 10 years.

the allowable loss is up to 30 grams per year.

Hey Squeasel,

On the valve B line (High Pressure Line) how hot is your during the maximum operation? Can you touch it? Or is it too hot to touch?

@killcrap: thanks ... I estimate, roughly, that I added about 6 oz (180? g), so after 10 years that seems to be in the allowable range. I wait to see if it holds before a celebratory drink.

@bugbyte: I'll take the car out tomorrow and run the a/c, then check the high pressure line (by feel and by infrared thermometer) and post here. I read your posts and think you might have a V-8. FWIW mine is a 3.0.