Service Equipment

Because R-134a is not interchangeable with R-12, separate sets of hoses, manifold gauge set and recovery/recycling equipment are required to service vehicles. This is necessary to avoid cross-contaminating and damaging system.

All equipment used to service systems using R-134a must meet SAE standard J1991. The service hoses on the manifold gauge set must have manual (turn wheel) or automatic back-flow valves at the service port connector ends. This will prevent refrigerant from being released into the atmosphere.

For identification purposes, R-134a service hoses must have a Black stripe along its length and be clearly labeled SAE J2196/R-134a. The low pressure test hose is Blue with a Black stripe. The high pressure test hose is Red with a Black stripe, and the center test hose is Yellow with a Black stripe.

R-134a manifold gauge sets can be identified by one or all of the following: Labeled FOR USE WITH R-134a on set, labeled HFC-134 or R-134a on gauge face, or by a Light Blue color on gauge face. In addition, pressure/temperature scales on R-134a gauge sets are different from R-12 manifold gauge sets.