A/C Compressor, Panasonic Rotary - Charging Procedure

89Mazda05

Category Applicable Model/s

16 1990 323
Subject PANASONIC ROTARY COMPRESSOR

REFRIGERANT CHARGING PROCEDURE
Bulletin No. 039/89
Issued 7/20/89
Revised
DESCRIPTION

The Panasonic rotary compressor, because of its unique internal structure, requires special refrigerant charging procedures in order for the rotor vanes to properly seat against the cylinder wall and prevent excessive compressor noise. There are two recommended procedures, method A for use with a manifold gauge set and method B for use on pressurized charging equipment which pumps the refrigerant through one hose only.

METHOD A (charging with Manifold Gauge Set)

1. Evacuation and Hold - Evacuate to at least 29 in. HG for at least 5 minutes (longer evacuation time will be needed if the system is open for extended periods). Close all valves and verify that vacuum is held for 5-10 minutes to provide a preliminary leak check of the system.


2. With the engine off, charge 14 ounces into the discharge side of the system. Close the discharge valve.


3. Start engine and run at 2,000 RPM. A/C switch and blower switch ON. Visually verify compressor clutch engagement and a pressure differential on manifold gauges. This will confirm that the rotor vanes are seated properly. If no or little pressure differential is noted, switch on and off until a pressure differential is present.


4. With the engine running, charge the balance of the recommended refrigerant amount into the suction side of the system. Verify proper operation and leak check the system.


METHOD B (Charging with Pressurized Equipment)


Some equipment (such as charging stations), will not charge the A/C system at both sides of the system.

In these cases, it will be necessary to use this method and completely charge the A/C system at the discharge valve.


1. Evacuate and hold the system as described in method A.
2. With the engine off, completely charge the system through the discharge side of the system.


3. Close all valves on the system, start the engine and run at 2,000 RPM. Verify that the rotor vanes are seated by noting the large pressure differential from the suction to the discharge side of the system.

If no pressure differential is present, press the A/C switch on and off a few times until the compressor rotor vanes become seated and a distinct pressure differential is noted. Verify proper compressor operation and cooling, then leak check the system.


NOTE: ^ Momentary audible noise at compressor start up is normal and is not a cause for concern.

^ Never attempt to charge the A/C system through the discharge side with the engine running or open the manifold gauge set discharge valve with the engine running.