Refrigerant System Evacuation Using an R-134a Manifold Gauge Set

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Ford RV Cutaway, 2004 Ford Econoline, 2004 Ford E450 Super Duty, and 2004 Ford Cutaway. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Ford Motor Company recommends use of an A/C service center to carry out recovery, evacuation, and charging of the refrigerant system. If an A/C service center is not available, refrigerant system recovery, evacuation, and charging may be accomplished using a separate recovery station, vacuum pump, charging meter, and manifold gauge set.

NOTE: Leaks in refrigerant system service equipment, hoses or gauges can cause a leak in vacuum that may be misinterpreted as a problem with the vehicle's refrigerant system. It is necessary to leak-test all refrigerant system service equipment, hoses and gauges on a weekly basis to verify that no leaks are present.

Connect the R-134a manifold gauge set to the low-side and high-side service gauge port valves.
Connect the center (yellow) hose from the manifold gauge set to the suction port on the vacuum pump.
Open all valves on the R-134a manifold gauge set and both service gauge port valves.
Turn on the vacuum pump and evacuate the system until the low-pressure gauge reads at least 99.4 kPa (29.5 in-Hg) of vacuum and as close to 101.1 kPa (30 in-Hg) as possible. Continue to operate the vacuum pump for a minimum of 45 minutes.
Close the high-side and low-side valves on the manifold gauge set (not the service gauge port valves) and turn off the vacuum pump.
Observe the low-pressure gauge for five minutes to make sure that the system vacuum is held. If vacuum is not held for five minutes, leak test the system, repair the leak and evacuate the system again.