2x 2003 Malibus - AC not working

[CurseTheSky]

Hi guys,

We have two different 2003 Malibus with the 3.1L V6. The AC in both of them quit fairly recently. We've tried recharging each one, but it leaks out within ~30 seconds or so. I tried running a can of refrigerant + dye through, but we couldn't see where the leak was on either.

Any ideas what to check? There are no obvious problems, but I've never worked on an AC system before. I don't know where to start. 🙁

Thanks!

 

[BUTCH1]

I would guess the evaporator coil inside the blower box since you can't see any dye anywhere else. 30 seconds and it's gone means a big leak..

 

[Vette73]

When you put the sye in did you charge the system to full? If not then the dye can't move around enough to show a leak.

I had a leak in my old Corvette and put the dye in and charged the system then drove. Aftre about 2 days of driving I checked and the leak was a front compressor seal.

Also you know you need a special light and glass's to see the dye right? Wait until its dark that helps.

 

[NutBucket]

I thought the dye was only visible with a UV light?

 

[Bartman39]

I thought the dye was only visible with a UV light?

Yep... You need the light/glasses kit to check properly although you can see the dye if there is enough leaking out but for most leaks you need the light & glasses...

Also these should have the low mount compressors and if you dont find the leak on a line anywhere or coming from the evap case then look real close at the compressor shaft seal (very common on these compressors)... Look in the clutch area and you may even see it being slung off the pulley... This area is my first guess due to the rate its leaking out...:thumbsup: