I've been trying to chase down a leak in my fiancee's 94 Accord. I've replaced the O-rings going into the compressor twice now; the 134 leaked out the first time, and I'm waiting to see what happens this time.

I charged the system with 12oz today, and when I was finished, I noticed that there were some small air bubbles leaking from inside the low port. Is there a seal inside the stem, like on a tire valve stem? If so, is it replaceable without changing the entire hose?

I'd appreciate anyone's insight into this. Thanks!

 

You're talking about the "shrader valve". I typically replace those whenever doing a major service on the a/c system. It's like a dollar generally, but unfortunately Honda will only sell the entire hose with the shrader valve inside. Personally, if my school didn't have any in the shop, I'd pick up the shrader valves from Toyota myself and use them.

Two things though, lube the replacement valve with mineral oil (not PAG oil), don't saturate it, just simply lube it. Second, you'll need a shrader valve removal tool.

You know you'll need to evacuate your system before hand and you'll also have to have your system redone under a vaccum again before you put in the R-134a back in. (Moisture/air in a/c system = bad for system.)

If you're sure it's your shrader valve then more props to you, but I would inject dye in your a/c system to more accurately pin point the leak.