How to Use gpd’s Tracer Gas Regulator Kit, 5811753, to Detect Leaks in the A/C System with Tracer Gas

Using tracer gas to detect leaks in the automotive A/C system is a cost effective and efficient method of detecting miniscule and hard to reach leaks. Adding tracer gas (non-flammable, 5% hydrogen, 95% nitrogen) to the A/C system increases pressure, releasing gas through any openings in the system that can then be identified with an electronic H2/N2 tracer gas leak detector.

Leak Testing with Refrigerant and Dye Vs. Tracer Gas

Tracer Gas

Refrigerant not required
Vehicle and A/C do not have to be on
Effective in any system

Dye/Refrigerant

Requires refrigerant in the system
Vehicle and A/C must be on
Ineffective in late model systems

Tracer Gas Regulator Kit 5811753 Includes:
a 150psi Rated Regulator (5811749)

b R134a High-Side Coupler with ¼” Adapter (5811750)

c R1234yf High-Side Coupler with ¼” Adapter (5811751)

d 96” Service Hose (¼”x ¼”) (5811317)

e Inline Shutoff Valve (5811637)

procedure

STEP 1
Evacuate refrigerant from the system. If there is any residual refrigerant left in the system, this must be recovered prior to following this procedure.
*UNLIKE LEAK DETECTION WITH DYE, THE VEHICLE AND A/C SYSTEM SHOULD NOT BE ON.

STEP 2
Ensure tracer gas cylinder is secure in a position where it cannot fall over.

STEP 3
Ensure regulator valve is fully wound out (counterclockwise).

STEP 4
Fit the regulator to the cylinder and fit gauges to the system.

STEP 5
Attach service hose to tracer gas cylinder and attach appropriate refrigerant coupler adapter to high-side.

STEP 6
Open the system valves and open the high side manifold valve.

STEP 7
Open the tracer gas cylinder valve and slowly wind the nitrogen regulator (clockwise) to pressurize the system.

Pressurize the system in stages of n more than 45psi at a time; UP TO 150 psi. 100psi is recommended for leak detection with tracer gas.
Listen for audible pressure loss and watch the gauges for visual indication of pressure loss at each increment increase.

STEP 8
Maintain the system at 100psi for the duration of the leak test.

STEP 9
Close tracer gas valve. Remove the low-side gauge. Remove service hose from high-side.

STEP 10
Slowly trace all lines in the A/C system using an H2/N2 Tracer Gas Leak Detector

Check all joints, service ports, connections, etc. twice.
The leak detector will indicate where there is a leak if it detects tracer gas, audibly with a fast paced “beep” and visually with numeric measurement of leak detected.

STEP 11
Evacuate tracer gas and make necessary repairs.
*REPAIRS SHOULD NOT BE MADE WHILE SYSTEM IS PRESSURIZED WITH GAS*

STEP 12
After repairs are made, ensure the system is completely evacuated before charging with refrigerant.

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