How Do I Check the AC Lines in My Ford Taurus?

The air-conditioning lines in a Ford Taurus distribute refrigerant throughout the AC system in order for the various components to work as designed. If any of the lines or their fittings develops a leak, you'll lose refrigerant and AC oil until the AC components incur damage. Thankfully, the refrigerant contains a leak-detection dye that allows for quick spotting of any leaks. Anyone with mechanical aptitude can perform this test on a Ford Taurus in a matter of minutes.

Things You'll Need

• UV (black light) inspection light

Instructions

1. Open the hood on your Ford Taurus. Support the hood with the prop rod if your Taurus does not have hood support struts.

2. Locate the AC compressor, mounted on the front of the engine. If you cannot find it easily, refer to the serpentine belt routing diagram located on the fan shroud for an illustration of each engine accessory location in relation to the serpentine belt.

3. Shine the UV inspection light onto the AC compressor. Follow the lines off the AC compressor, around the AC loop with the inspection light until you pinpoint a leak.

Tips & Warnings

• If you make it all the way through the loop without seeing any glowing leak dye on the lines, you might not have a leak. However, it's a good idea to shine the inspection light on the nose of the AC compressor, as well as on the receiver/drier, condenser and manifold assembly.

References

• Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable Haynes Repair Manual for 1996 thru 2005