Fluorescent Dye Injection - Using an R-134a Refrigerant Management Center and Dye/Lubricant Injector

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 Mercury Milan, 2009 Lincoln MKZ, and 2009 Ford Fusion. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Fluorescent refrigerant system dye is added to the refrigerant system at the factory to assist in refrigerant system leak diagnosis using a Rotunda-approved ultraviolet black light. It is not necessary to add additional dye to the refrigerant system before diagnosing leaks, even if a significant amount of refrigerant has been removed from the system. Additional refrigerant system dye should only be added if more than 50% of the refrigerant system lubricant capacity has been lost due to a fitting separation, hose rupture or other damage.

NOTE: Before using the dye/lubricant injector from the R-134a Loop/Add On Injector Kit-Set for the first time, refer to the manufacturer's instructions on evacuation of any non-condensable gases from the hoses.

NOTE: Only connect the dye/lubricant injector when fluorescent dye is to be injected. The injector has a one-way check valve that will prevent refrigerant system recovery and evacuation.

NOTE: Refrigerant system pressure should be between 413-551 kPa (60-80 psi) at 24°C (75°F) with the engine off.

Connect an R-134a Refrigerant Center or a R-134a Manifold Gauge Set to the refrigerant system service port valves.

NOTE: The dye/lubricant injector is included as part of the 219-00069 R-134a Loop/Add On Injector Kit-Set.

Verify that the valves on the dye/lubricant injector are closed.

Fig 1: Verifying Valves On Dye/Lubricant Injector Are Closed

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Fill the fluorescent dye injector reservoir with 7 ml (0.25 oz.) of fluorescent dye.

Fig 2: Filling Fluorescent Dye Injector Reservoir With 7 ml (0.25 oz.) Of Fluorescent Dye

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Install the dye/lubricant injector between the low-pressure service gauge port valve and the R-134a Refrigerant Center or R-134a Manifold Gauge Set.
Open all valves and inject the fluorescent dye into the refrigerant system.
When fluorescent dye injection is complete, close all valves.
Recover the refrigerant from the dye/lubricant injector.
Remove the dye/lubricant injector from the low-pressure service gauge port valve and the R-134a Refrigerant Center or R-134a Manifold Gauge Set.