I have a 1996 Chev Astro AWD , 4.3 L with just over 200,000 KM.
My A/C is now just blowing out slightly cool air. I also noticed some fluid dripping from under the right front end, approximately from under the cooling coil (or what ever it is called). I thought at first it was condensation but it left an oily stain on my cement driveway. My compressor is also cycling on and off quite quickly.
So I now assume I have a leak in the system. I have R-134a refrigerant.
Where would I find a "suction discharge hose" in the engine compartment?
Can you give the "heads up" on possible problems/causes so I can deal effectively with my repair shop?
Thanks
Glenn
Update:Thanks to all that responded to my question. I went and bought a refill kit and a rubber and o-ring sealant made by HC Refrigerant. Shortly after I attached/filled from the first can my compressor stopped cycling and cold air returned to my interior. I also added the leak stopper so I will just have to wait and see what happens.
Answers & Comments
Verified answer
Sounds like the system needs recharged.
Whats dripping out and staining the ground is NOT R-134a! Freon is a gas at anything above -40°!
The suction/discharge hose assembly will be connected directly to the compressor and it is most likely what is leaking in your system. I just replaced one of these on an Astro Van with rear air, it makes a difference if it has the rear air option for the correct hose assembly.
Look for an A/C specialist to help you.
You will have to get the van's AC system leak checked to determine where the leak is first. A lot of these vans leaked from the suction discharge assembly which is the big and little hose assembly that comes off the compressor and goes into the condensor on one end and the other leads to the evaporator. These vans also leaked from fittings leading to the rear AC if it is equipped with that. If the comp is cycling a bunch it means the system is low on charge. You might not have a leak, just a low system from years of operation that slowly leak away enough charge to make the condition you are describing. Needs to be leak checked to determine. Good luck.
Your most likeley problem is a leak at the ac condenser-it is the radiator looking thing in front of the radiator-if you catch the leak quick enough and have the repair done quickly-it should only need that part replaced-when the system runs low on freon-the compressor will cycle fast.
If it is leaking on the right side just behind the wheel, it probably the evap core, if it is just slightly ahead of that, it will be a line that has let go, and if it is closer to the front, the condenser.
I agree with hangtrojanover. It may be low on refrigerant, so go to a part store to get a couple of canisters of either R-12 or R-134a, which ever your car takes and put some in it until you feel your AC gettin really frosty.