Leak in evaporator core

Fortunately I’ve probably removed 80% of the dash at some point between the aftermarket head unit, sound system, and remote start installs I’ve done. So at least I’ve got that going for me lol

 

We're in it boys.

 

Pressure it up. We need to see those soap bubbles.

 

Not sure of the process for that lol. You can see the dye leaking on the left side.

 

I'll have to take your word. I can't see the dye in the pic.

If you can see the dye, then you definatly found your leak.

 

I found early in my career that I could take a dash apart. Putting it back together correctly, not so much.

 

I can see the dye! Was that there from the factory?

When my wife's car AC died the one of the "professional" shops said the evaporator was leaking. You can imagine just how happy I was when I tore the dash apart only to find a perfectly good evaporator.

 

My biggest fear.

I really didn't find pulling the dash that tough of a job. The parts really only fit one way. Pictures made it easy. Along with taking a few beer breaks.

 

I was deathly afraid of this happening lol. The guy at the shop told me he could see some of the dye leaking from there when he removed the blower fan, so I trusted him. As I started taking it apart, I realized there was no way he saw any dye.

 

Just trying to figure out what all parts I need to order now. I’m thinking I just need the new evaporator core, and the A/C receiver drier thing.. Shouldn’t need an expansion valve or anything right..

 

O rings, R134a, the proper oil, vaccum pump and a full gauge set.

You may be able to rent the pump maybe the gauges too.

 

i plan to take it back to the shop for the recharge and all that. Just trying to figure out what I need to put it back together

 

Actually looks like my 2011 V6 4wd doesn’t have a receiver drier. Should I buy a new expansion valve?

 

What is the oil for?

 

Pretty sure you'll find it called an accumulator. ALL vehicles AC have one or the other.

It wouldn't hurt to put the expansion valve on since it's all open anyway. But its not 'needed' if the leak has been found. I would do it, but that's just me.

 

Lubrication of the compressor. The refrigerant serves as the carrier for the oil. When you lose all the refridgerant, you've lost almost all the oil.

https://www.aa1car.com/library/pagoil.htm

The shop manual will give oil measurements for various components so you start off with it 'spread around'.

Don't put it in, your compressor will toast in short order.

 

okay, thanks. That sounds like something the shop will take care of when I take it back in for the recharge

 

Call and ask. They may want you to put it in during your assembly.

Or not.

But don't guess, ask.

 

Will do. Thanks man

 

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/ac-guys-please-help.666954/page-3#post-23401554

Post 46 re the accumulator.

@CurtB you might read through this thread and see if advice needs to be changed.