AC low port, small leak

[808ram1500]

So i recharged my 2011 ram and noticed my low side port bubbling from the opening after I disconnected the hose. In other words a small leak. I was wondering if the valve core can be replaced, tightened or you have to replace the whole low side hose? I poked a screw driver in to play with the valve stem to make sure it was clear of debris. Also used a small long nose plier and tried tightening. Didnt see any leaks after, put my finger over the port and didnt feel any pressure either. Just want a more sure fire way to stop the port from leaking. Any info will be appreciated.

 

[tidefan1967]

Yes you can tighten the Schrader valve down some if its loose. You can also replace it if need be but you are going to lose some Freon in the process. Its actually pretty common for them to loosen up over time. Hope you still have the cap that goes on there.

 

[crash68]

Hope you still have the cap that goes on there.

^^^ this
The screw on cap has an o-ring gasket (make sure it's in there) that is to stop any minor leakage by the Schrader valve. With as much as the AC system changes temperature and vibrates while driving, even if it's not leaking while sitting, it probably will while driving.

 

[808ram1500]

Thanks guys for the feedback. No the cap wasnt on there when I looked. So far I've tightened the schrader with a long nose pliers and looks to have temporarily stopped the leak (finger pressure test). I ordered schrader valves, caps and the tool off of rock auto in the meantime.

 

[CVX20]

GM actually calls the cap "the primary seal".They do stop slight leaks.I used to pick them up off the shop floor when guys didn't put them back on.Just threw them in my box for spares.

 

[MRFREEZE57]

try tightening the schrader core, they can be replaced but will have to let the charge go to do so. have not worked much automotive systems but there is a core changing tool available in commercial refrigeration to change cores without loosing the charge but those go on a 1/4 male flare fitting, not sure if something like that available for automotive applications.

 

[808ram1500]

try tightening the schrader core, they can be replaced but will have to let the charge go to do so. have not worked much automotive systems but there is a core changing tool available in commercial refrigeration to change cores without loosing the charge but those go on a 1/4 male flare fitting, not sure if something like that available for automotive applications.

Yeah I seen the commericial ones on youtube. For automotive looks like you might have to customize a fitting.