64 50... Leak detection with ultraviolet additives (UV additives) (BMW leak-testing case)
- If a leak is suspected in the refrigerant circuit, refilling with R134a and UV additives for the purpose of a subsequent leak detection is not permitted.
In this case carry out LEAK DETECTION WITH FORMING GAS .
- UV additives must be filled only in a tight refrigerant circuit (R134a).
Leak detection using ultraviolet additives is generally not recommended as the UV additives lead to an uncontrolled over oiling of the refrigerant circuit. This results in a reduction of the cooling power. LEAK DETECTION WITH FORMING GAS is preferable.
Observe national regulations in all other countries!
It is absolutely essential to read and comply with the equipment manufacturer's operating instructions provided in the leak testing case!
Read and comply with the manufacturer's operating instructions provided with the leak testing case with regard to accident prevention, health protection and environmental protection.
Use only BMW-approved UV additives (e.g. TRACER).
Only the basic procedure is described in the following information.
UV additives may not be used in vehicles with electric A/C compressors!
Eyes and skin will suffer damage if the ultraviolet lamp is used without the filter glass. When using the UV lamp, wear the safety goggles provided in the case.
- Fill the hose system of the hand pump completely with UV additive PRIOR to use
- Use the UV additive exclusively for refrigerant oil approved by BMW
- Do not operate the air conditioning while the hand pump is connected or in use
- The air conditioning must always be filled with an adequate amount of refrigerant to enable the UV additives to be properly distributed
Necessary preliminary tasks:
Before actually testing for leaks, check the entire refrigerant circuit using the UV leak detection lamp to ensure that no UV additive is already in the area of the refrigerant circuit.
If already illuminated areas are found, carefully clean the area in question with the cleaning agent contained in the leak testing case.
On initial use:
Connect hand pump (1) to additive cartridge (2) and hose piece (3).
On initial use:
Attach vent valve (1) to quick-release coupling (2).
Turn handle (3) on hand pump to advance the piston until a small amount of UV additive emerges. This vents the hose system.
Attach quick-release coupling (1) to low-pressure connection (2) of air conditioning system.
Turn handle on hand pump (3) until the required amount of UV additive is added.
The quantity of UV additive to be added is dependent on the amount of REFRIGERANT IN THE REFRIGERANT CIRCUIT :
- Air conditioning systems with refrigerant filling up to 900 g: one graduation mark (4) on additive cartridge
- Air conditioning systems with refrigerant filling in excess of 900 g: two graduation marks (4) on additive cartridge
Further tasks:
- Start engine
- Run air conditioning at highest level for 5 - 10 minutes in order to ensure adequate distribution of dye in the system
- Turn off engine.
- Check all components of the refrigerant circuit for possible leaks
- Possible leaks show up in luminous green
Complete accompanying information label (1) with the relevant data and attach in an easily visible position next to the type plate (2).