Safety Warning

DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.

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HOMESERVICE MANUALSFORD2004ECONOLINE E150, VAN CARGO, 4.6 WREPAIR AND DIAGNOSISEXTERNAL PAGESDIFFERENT CARSECTION 285 (CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEM)GENERAL PROCEDURESFLUORESCENT DYE LEAK DETECTIONFLUORESCENT DYE DETECTION

2004 Ford Econoline E150, Van Cargo, 4.6 W

Fluorescent Dye Detection

2004 Ford Econoline E150, Van Cargo, 4.6 WSECTION Fluorescent Dye Detection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Lincoln LS. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Ford Motor Company vehicles are produced with R-134a fluorescent dye installed in the refrigerant system from the factory. The location of leaks can be pinpointed by the bright yellow-green glow of the fluorescent dye under a UV lamp. Since more than one leak can exist, make sure to inspect each component, line and fitting in the refrigerant system for a leak.

Check for leaks using the special tool.
- Inspect all components, lines and fittings of the refrigerant system.
Fig 1: Checking Leaks Using Special Tool
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
If a leak is found, recover the refrigerant. For additional information, refer to AIR CONDITIONING (A/C) SYSTEM RECOVERY, EVACUATION AND CHARGING .
Repair the refrigerant system leak(s).
Evacuate and charge the refrigerant system. For additional information, refer to AIR CONDITIONING (A/C) SYSTEM RECOVERY, EVACUATION AND CHARGING .
After the leak(s) is/are repaired, remove any traces of fluorescent dye with a general purpose oil solvent.
Verify the repair by running the vehicle for a short period of time and rechecking the area of the leak with the special tool.

Fig 2: Checking Area Of Leak With Special Tool
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

• You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
• Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
• The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
• You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
• You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.