Fluorescent Dye Leak Detection

For information on Ford Color Coded Illustrations, refer to OEM COLOR CODING

Special Tool(s) / General Equipment 

Leak detection 

Vehicles with air conditioning 

1. Review next note for important refrigerant system dye information.
   NOTE: Fluorescent refrigerant system dye is added to the refrigerant system at the factory to assist in refrigerant system leak diagnosis using a Rotunda-approved UV lamp. Do not add dye to the refrigerant system before diagnosing leaks or after repairs, even if a significant amount of refrigerant has been removed from the system. Replacement suction accumulators, receiver driers, receiver drier elements and service condensers are shipped with a fluorescent dye wafer included in the desiccant bag which dissolves after approximately 30 minutes of continuous A/C operation. Do not add dye after flushing the refrigerant system because a new suction accumulator, receiver drier or receiver drier element is installed as part of the flushing procedure.

   Fluorescent Dye Leak Detection 

   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, inspect each component, line and fitting in the refrigerant system for a leak.