2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission small hole in condenser

[CLorox]

When I purchased my truck used in the summer of 2000 I noticed a dent and some bent fins on the condenser in front of my truck. It appears that at one time the truck had been in a fender bender and pushed the bumper into the condenser. Now two years later, that dent is leaking fluid / vapor



My first question is, the AC still works, but is it safe to enable the AC at all with a leak in it? I don't know all that much about the AC system, but since it seems to contain a lubricant... . or is that refrigerant, I am reluctant to stress the rest of the system and find myself in need of more expensive repairs.



Second question... . Any idea on prices for a new condenser (not going to the dealer if I can avoid it) and are there any quick fixes for a pin-hole leak? Leak stop type substance or anything like it?



I appreciate any ideas.



Thanks



-Adam

 

[B.G. Smith]

AC leak

It is not dangerous to engage the AC but what you see coming out is as you guessed, refrigerant and oil, what will eventually happen if you continue to run the unit and recharge with the leak is all the lube will leak out with the refrigerant and the compressor will fail. Over the years I have tried different methods to repair leaks in auto type condensers with little long term success. As far as stop leaks, I have always been told that the only thing you should put in a refrigeration system is refrigerant and oil and that in the proper type and amount. I don't know the price of a new condenser but you might try the wrecking yards, the unit on the gas rigs may be the same, if so then you can probably buy a new one through NAPA. Good luck. bg

 

[Koa Man]

I put in Super Seal a/c stop leak in my truck last year August and it is still blowing cold. Previously it wouldn't blow any cold air 8 days after a recharge.

 

[Jammar9082]

I repaired a condenser many years ago using a special aluminum refrigeration epoxy. It was a two part product that I purchased at a refrigeration supply house. The repair was made in the late 60's and was still holding in 1980 when the last daughter finally bought her own car.



I may have to repair my condenser due to a similar type accident. My damage was from a deer collision and the bumper actual cut into the condenser on the very bottom edge but missed the tube. However it is bent and could start leaking. It seems that the metal thickness in the newer units is quite thin compared to the older versions. If it goes to leaking I will attempt the repair with the epoxy.

 

[Mallory]

Call a good fabrication shop and ask if they can TIG weld aluminum. If they can it will take less than a minute if the cracked area is clean and easy to get to.