A/C question...problem

[schwalmy]

how can i check to see that my ac fluid level is topped up...it seems to be on fine for a min then shut off shortly then kick back on....wondering if it needs to be recharged?

 

[drmorbius]

how can i check to see that my ac fluid level is topped up...it seems to be on fine for a min then shut off shortly then kick back on....wondering if it needs to be recharged?

Do you have the blinking A/C light?

 

[schwalmy]

negative....stays on...

 

[drmorbius]

negative....stays on...

There is a thing that looks like a metal bottle called a receiver/dryer which has a sight glass in the top and is usually mounted somewhere near the A/C heat exchanger(radiator). There may be a rubber cap over the sight glass which just pulls off. You should see flow across the sight glass but if you see bubbles it means you have lost some of your charge. Hope this helps.

 

[drmorbius]

I would still make sure you have the upgraded compressor relay. Toyota # 90987-02028. The original part is white in color and the upgrade is gray.

 

[schwalmy]

how much would the upgrade cost?
i had no idea....will the fact that my warranty is up kinda kill that?

 

[drmorbius]

how much would the upgrade cost?
i had no idea....will the fact that my warranty is up kinda kill that?

I think it's like $ 50.00 US but don't quote me. That's why I asked if you had the blinkin lite first, it's a common problem. Do a search for member Rando and look at A/C problems to see how it was isolated and fixed by him. It's kind of interesting.

 

[schwalmy]

thanks guys!

 

[MikesToy]

There is a thing that looks like a metal bottle called a receiver/dryer which has a sight glass in the top and is usually mounted somewhere near the A/C heat exchanger(radiator). There may be a rubber cap over the sight glass which just pulls off. You should see flow across the sight glass but if you see bubbles it means you have lost some of your charge. Hope this helps.

Can u post a pic where this is at?

 

[drmorbius]

Can u post a pic where this is at?

It's in the underhood fuse box on the battery side. Simply turn over the lid of the box for placement.

 

[MikesToy]

It's in the underhood fuse box on the battery side. Simply turn over the lid of the box for placement.

i'm still confused. Now where over here?

 

[drmorbius]

i'm still confused. Now where over here?

Sorry no bottle. On mine the sight glass is in front of the radiator between a pressure switch and a service valve on the left side when you are facing the radiator. I have a V6 so not sure where on V8. It's part of a silver colored line that goes to the bottom right side of the radiator, again facing the radiator.