Ford: Low side a/c pressure connection, r 134a, air gap

Question
QUESTION: My a/c stopped blowing cold. Only blows cool. I figure it needs r-134a recharge. Where is low side pressure port? Please be specific as I am a novice do it yourselfer.
ANSWER: Hello Charlie, thanks for the question. I would really like to assist you, but to start off with I need to know what kind of vehicle we are dealing with please. With the correct vehicle I can give you an accurate description. The low side A/C test port is usually located somewhere close to the receiver dryer. This is the thing that kind of looks like a capped tube with hoses going in and out of it. Also I do not recommend the use of other chemicals other than R-134a the system is designed for it, as well with that other stuff you are not to sure what your actually putting in there. Some of the contents that the aftermarket world use is even propane. Hope this helps and I can give you a more accurate description once I know the year and model of vehicle we are dealing with as well as a few more pointers for your air conditioning.

regards

Jim

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I have a 2000 F-150 4.6L V8. Also, my truck makes a chirping/squealing sound when I start it and off and on when driving. It started right after A/C stopped blowing cold. Any suggestions?

Answer
Well this makes more sense. If the chirping happens when the ac is trying to engage look at the compressor I bet you just may see that the compressor may not be turning or trying to turn. If that is the case you will more than likely need to replace the ac pulley and the clutch. They are not cheap but after the air gap on the clutch will need to be checked and seen that it is within specification. The upside to this is that it is cheaper than a compressor and you don't need to have the ac recovered to do this repair. Hope this helps.

Jim