Volkswagen: JETTA AIR CONDITIONING, jetta 2, cooling coil

Question

I have a 2000 jetta 2.0 with no air conditioning, I had problems with loosing the charge, but I think I know where is leaking "the expansion valve. I appears that this valve serves and a medium between the evaporator coil and the firewall. The main purpose is to prevent the heat from the engine transferring to the cooling coil. I appear that the "O" rings might be leaking; I also noticed the fluorescent dye on the plastic cover.  Do I just replace the O-rings on both ends of the expansion valve or do I replace the valve as well. My other issue I know the system will need to have a vacuum not sure to what. Or do I just replace the parts and have the AC shop do the rest?


Answer
I would replace the O rings and anywhere else you see the fluorescent dye leaking, plus the expansion valve.  They are known to leak.

2000 should have the new refrigerant, which you readily buy at the store and recharge yourself, without going to an A/C shop.   Make sure you get the refrigerant that has the dye as well.  (The kits even come with a gauge to let you know when the system is full).

Happy Cooling!

Ron