2005 Focus AC confusing pressures. Not working.

[Kurtatron]

I’m suspecting a leak somewhere, but only past a certain pressure?

AC cycles on and off 2 seconds. Thinking the thing is low on refrigerant, I proceed to fill.
Low pressure rises to 60psi.
Compressor kicks on.
Low pressure drops to 25psi within 3-5 seconds
Compressor cycles off, low pressure rises to 60.

High pressure hovers around 140psi
When compressor clicks on, it rises to 175psi
Adding refrigerant has changed nothing. Numbers have stayed the same after adding refrigerant for 20 minutes. 22oz can nearly exhausted.

What’s going on here? Why does adding refrigerant change nothing? When I add refrigerant, I can watch the low side gauge rise more quickly, so I think it’s working?

Is it possible there’s only a leak on the high side? But why only 175+?

Please help.

 

[brages]

What's your ambient temp?

AC systems can be a little goofy when it's cold.

Otherwise, I think you have a leak. Do you have UV in the system and have you looked for a leak?

 

[Kurtatron]

It’s 82 here today

 

[JavierH19]

Didn't you say it spent years not working in the first post and because of that may have been open to the elements? I think the orifice and ard might need to be changed if they haven't been already but I don't know what else it could be unless they're defective which is a possibility since parts quality is terrible today.

 

[Nukeman7]

Your description seems to indicate that there is an excess amount of air and/or oil in the A/C system. However, it is difficult to diagnose without knowing the comprehensive past history of the A/C system, including past failures and repairs. If nothing else, I'd suggest starting with a complete vacuum evacuation of the system and refilling with the correct amount of R-134a. Otherwise, no refrigerant will be pulled into the system unless the compressor is running.

Also, are you using 12 oz. cans of pure R-134a without any sealant? Never heard of a 22 oz. can of R-134 refrigerant. If you are not knowledgeable and proficient with A/C repairs, I'd suggest that paying a professional is money well spent.

 

[Kurtatron]

Your description seems to indicate that there is an excess amount of air and/or oil in the A/C system. However, it is difficult to diagnose without knowing the comprehensive past history of the A/C system, including past failures and repairs. If nothing else, I'd suggest starting with a complete vacuum evacuation of the system and refilling with the correct amount of R-134a. Otherwise, no refrigerant will be pulled into the system unless the compressor is running.

Also, are you using 12 oz. cans of pure R-134a without any sealant? Never heard of a 22 oz. can of R-134 refrigerant. If you are not knowledgeable and proficient with A/C repairs, I'd suggest that paying a professional is money well spent.

I’ve recharged AC systems a bunch of times and replaced compressors. I never use sealants. I rather replace the offending part use sealing goo.

But I’ve never had a charge do nothing before.

 

[brages]

Did you vacuum the system first?