a/c leak sniffer purchase advise - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

James L · #1 08-08-2006, 03:44 PM

I want to purchase a haloginated electronic a/c refrigerant leak detector (sniffer) to check for leaks instead of dye. I noticed they range in price from $50 on up. (about what i would pay a shop to sniff). Brands I have seen (all have the flexible extension probe and battery operarted);

TIFXL-1A, CPS L-780, VIOT HLD-7, INFICON TEK-MATE new and used.

Thanks

TX76513 · #2 08-08-2006, 04:17 PM

$50 is a good price for a TIF usually around the high side of $80. With that said the sniffers are not real good for automotive uses as that running engine and fan tend to blow the trace amounts of freon away. You might consider a UV setup unless you are doing static (non running) detection. My .02

Ron in SC · #3 08-08-2006, 04:50 PM

I have a mastercool 55100 which is decent. I also use dye and recommend it be used too.

I bought mine off ebay.

James L · #4 08-08-2006, 09:52 PM

So you use the sniffer with the car off? I want to check evap drain and center vent probe. Also compressor shaft seal and manifold seal at compressor. System has a little dye in it already, I do not see any dye residue anywhere, Do I need those special glasses and special flash light?

What brand/application type dye kit does one recommend for R12 sytem with mineral oil? I have seen the autozone stuff and it says for R134A/pag oil, where to purchase?

Thanks

TX76513 · #5 08-09-2006, 09:16 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by James L

So you use the sniffer with the car off? I want to check evap drain and center vent probe. Also compressor shaft seal and manifold seal at compressor. System has a little dye in it already, I do not see any dye residue anywhere, Do I need those special glasses and special flash light?

What brand/application type dye kit does one recommend for R12 sytem with mineral oil? I have seen the autozone stuff and it says for R134A/pag oil, where to purchase?

Thanks

Sniffers detection ability can be hampered by air movement for obvious reasons - especially when looking for small leaks. Internal components they work fine, I do not like them for engine bay work with a running engine.

The best UV kits have the yellow glasses.

R12 oil is usually a viscosity of 500....and worth mentioning here there is not a universal PAG for R134 as it's available in 3 viscosity's (ISO 46, 100, 150). I feel it's important to look at the compressor mfg. suggested PAG type.

#6 08-09-2006, 09:30 AM

Some of the cheaper ones do not have replacable tips. If the tip comes in contact with oil it is ruined, so make sure you get one with the replacable tip.

The Inficon units are REALLY good, but they are also in the $350 range.

Good luck,

TX76513 · #7 08-09-2006, 09:55 AM

James - something worth mentioning. Locally here at Autozone they have a UV detector they will loan out for free. Maybe the same in your area.

What Larry said is very true. Not that your would run across any oil on these old diesels...

James L · #8 08-09-2006, 11:39 AM

the autozone here did not have the electronic sniffer for rent. i did not ask about the uv dye for rent though i will today.

any concerns about dye compatibilty with R12 and mineral oil?
what is the best way to inject it?

thanks guys!

Arthur Dalton · #9 08-09-2006, 12:56 PM

I have a good GE Halogen , if interested.
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