R134A leak detector

[wore out]

Has anyone found a good R134A refrigerant leak detector that works well and and stands up to the dust involved in tractor and combine AC systems?

 

[4520BW]

I have been useing dye and a blaclight.

 

[farmer656]

I use one of these and it is spot on finds leaks you cannot see with dye TEK-Mate Refrigerant Leak Detector for 134

 

[Hobo,NC]

The short and sweet I have two Inficon testers will have to look for the model # TEK-Mate sounds like it and a Yokagawa H10, all are heated diode technology. All have their own personality. One Inficon is super sensitive once I am in the neighborhood of the leak I pull out the other Inficon to narrow it down. If I am sure there is a leak and neither Inficon will find the leak out comes the Yokogawa.

Why not use the Yokogawa al the time, when you dial it in supper sensitive it shortens the heated diode's life : (. Why two Inficon tester, I liked it so much I kept a look out for another on cracklist and scored it for $25. Like I said they are not identical and I like that.

DYE, I have used it since the late 80's it takes time its more of an excuse to kick the can down the road and that's how most do it. Leak check I can do a fast check and sometimes find it if the leak is large enoufh. I recommenced you leave it with me let me get armed with a battle plan and test it first thing in the morning before I open the shop doors. I would say i have a 99% success rate that way.

Before 1234f the top guns used the Inficon, it was cheap and reliable. When someone jumps on the Dye train I doubt they have a good leak detector are take the time to find the leak. With a good detector its rare i use dye anymore.

 

[Hobo,NC]

(quoted from post at 07:17:06 08/26/23) I use one of these and it is spot on finds leaks you cannot see with dye TEK-Mate Refrigerant Leak Detector for 134
<img src=https://www.yesterdaystractors.com/cvphotos/cvphoto161752.jpg>

Whut he said its the real deal.

 

[Texasmark]

This isn't a leak detector answer but is a caution: I used a product that was supposed to find leaks and seal them and in the process
clogged my condenser coil and filter dryer. My problem was a leaking hose, at the clamp, at the output of the compressor going to
the condenser where you have high pressure and high heat. I'd look there first.

 

[wore out]

Thanks, everyone, for the comments so far.

 

[TomA in CA]

Soapy water in spray bottle?

 

[Texasmark]

Dawn or some other dishwashing detergent. Hand soap won't bubble up enough.....BTDT on trying to find thorn leaks on tractor tires.