Automotive AC Diagnostics, Operation and Repair

In this video I am going to show you how an Automotive AC system works, how you can diagnose issues with it using an AC manifold Gauge Set and how you can repair it.

Here are links to products which were used in this video:

Disclaimer:
Due to factors beyond the control of Ratchets and Wrenches, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information. Ratchets and Wrenches assumes no liability for any property or personal damage that may arise from doing a repair on your vehicle after watching any of my repair video's. Due to factors beyond the control of Ratchets and Wrenches, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Again Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not Ratchets and Wrenches.

[JeffLifeInReview]

This is probably one of the best AC videos on youtube. This guy breaks every aspect of the system down, how it should work, things to check and expected outcomes and possible issues. We even got to watch him diagnose a vehicle. Wow this was great and more people should be subscribing to this guy. I feel like I just got trained like a mechanic!

[ajsnowskis]

Best auto AC video on Youtube. A tech that actually knows how the AC system operates and explains each scenario so you can use your own brain to determine your problem. THANK YOU!

[TheMrChaddles]

I love the fact that you didn’t edit out the part where you diagnosed that it was the hot/cold control knob... I like the humbleness and your sense of humor as well

[flyboy]

Great video! One thing I would add: With the style of AC gauge fittings you have, watch your gauges as you screw in the knob to open the Schrader valve in the service ports. As SOON as you see pressure register on the gauge, STOP! Far too many people screw those knobs down all the way and damage the Schrader valves. Then they won't seal correctly and all the refrigerant is lost. Seen it happen too many times.

[arolon]

I actually enjoyed the explanation. Normally I just skip through the Blah, blah, blah but your mixture of humor and knowledge is outstanding. Keep up the GREAT work!!!

[jeffgilbert]

This guy is a real mechanic. Very well done.

[Machewching]

Because of your videos, I was able to go from no AC experience to successfully completing a complete AC overhaul on my beloved 95 chevy g20 conversion van, which has front and rear AC. I replaced the compressor, pressure switchs, evaporator, orrifice tube, expansion valve, o-rings, flushed everything, vacuumed, and recharged. I learned the hardway that Santech is not better than Acdelco, and your diagnosing methodology came out in me and I was able to use the gm service manual to deduce that my recent ac issue was due to a bad high pressure switch that I installed new during the overhaul of last summer. Well ysterday I completed and it is working correctly now, so I thank you R&W!!

[ctscantechnologist]

And the evaporator core is usually in some God forsaken place in your dash. 😆

[davidschwalbe]

I realize that this video is old, but it is one of the best car repair videos I've seen. The on-air guy helps with diagnostics and repair. There are a lot of repair videos out on youtube (and that is great), the issue for us do-it-yourself people is the diagnostics. Great video!

[victorp]

That was the most fulfilling outcome for education. You go past the physical refrigerant system and diagnose electronics. That’s what it takes sometimes thank you for that surprise

[michellemartel]

I love how you explain the diagnostic process alongside explaining the engineering! The problem I have wasn't addressed in this video and yet I'm still glad I spent my time watching it. Thank you for the education!

[benkanobe]

You are crazy smart and very humble. Thanks for this very honest you tube.

[puffnstuff]

Thank you for taking the time to make this video and for your detailed explanation of how the system works. I had to open my system for the first time on Tuesday to replace my compressor, orifice and accumulator at which point I discovered that the orifice was installed backwards.

[donaldnealious]

Nice video. As an electronics tech with 40+ years experience, I loved your explanations, with visual aids.Your outcome was real world.

[maryanndemko]

As usual, awesome explaination. I am a very very small used car dealer (and female) and really appreciate your tutorials because otherwise I could not make it in this economy. Thank you SO MUCH!

[nandi]

Awesome video, yet again! My knowledge of cars has come a long way thanks to you. Always informative! Bless you man and thanks for helping the DIY community.

[oljames]

..Very Good Explanation of how the AC System works and How to Diagnose it !!! You did a Better job than most of the so-called "pros" on YouTube! This is a handy video because it helped me find out that a pressure switch is bad on a '94 Crown Vic. Thanks...!!!

[michaelm]

This is a great channel to follow. Too many bs mechanic channels getting into "don't buy this or that, never put this on your car, share your ride and etc". This is pure educational, great explanations on everything

[Jursaw]

I learned a lot from this video compared to many other auto A/C videos

[chrisgarcia]

Great job in explaining. You were technically correct explaining how the low pressure switch has an open or closed connection to pass electricity. Very good explaining technical in simple dialogue. That is what makes you a technical teacher! thanks for your time and effort! Keep up the good work. 👍