REFRIGERANT LEAK DETECTOR INSTRUCTIONS
PRODUCT OVERVIEW
You have purchased an intelligent electronic leak detector model 55900. At the heart of this leak
detector is a new low power metal oxide gas sensor with superior performance properties such
as lower current consumption and sensor longevity. The new sensor is characterized by high sen-
sitivity and a fast response in detecting the presence of extremely small levels of chlorofluorocar-
bon gases. For this reason, this sensor was selected and integrated into the 55900 Leak Detector.
A powerful microprocessor automatically selects the best operating condition for the sensor to
ensure optimum performance throughout the life of the product. Upon turn on, the unit momen-
tarily displays the option(s) that were in use when the unit was turned off. This information is
displayed by one or more of the six (6) LEDS. Following this, the sensor is prepared for readiness
in a warm up sequence that lasts a minute or less. The warm up sequence is displayed by six
green vertical LEDs that are extinguished sequentially down until only one green (READY) LED is
lighted. This indicates the end of the warm-up sequence is reached and the unit is ready for use.
The color of the LED indicators indicate the sensitivity range that is selected by the user; green is
for the least sensitive level, yellow for medium sensitivity level and red is for the most sensitive
level. The default sensitivity level of the unit is GREEN upon initial turn-on.
WARNING
This symbol is intended to alert the user of the presence of important operating and mainte-
nance or servicing instructions in the literature accompanying this product.
IMPORTANT GUIDELINES FOR AUTOMOTIVE TECHNICIANS
The following SAE Recommended Practice applies to this instrument and to the use of generally
available leak detection methods to service motor vehicle passenger compartment air condition-
ing systems.
1. The 55900 leak detector shall be operated in accordance to the equipment manufacturer's
operating instructions.
2. Leak test with the engine OFF.
3. The AC system shall be charged with sufficient refrigerant to have a gauge pressure of at least
50 PSI (340 Kpa) when not in operation. At ambient pressures below 15˚C (59˚F), leaks may
not be measurable because the pressure may not be reached.
4. A high degree of caution shall be used whenever cleaning agents or solvents are employed to
clean refrigerant lines. The table in this manual identifies the automotive chemicals that can
potentially contaminate the probe tip and the surfaces that are exposed to such chemicals.
Always wipe away dirt or potential false triggering chemicals, using towels or shop air.
5. Visually trace the entire refrigerant system and inspect for signs of air conditioning lubricant
leakage, damage and corrosion on all lines, hoses and components. Each questionable area
shall be carefully checked with the detector probe as well as fittings, hose-to-line couplings,
refrigerant controls, service ports with caps in place, brazed or welded areas and areas around
attachment points and hold-downs on lines and components. If looking for an apparently
larger leak, check first at the Medium 7g/yr or Low 14 g/yr sensitivity setting.
6. Always follow the refrigerant system around in a continuous path so that no area of potential
leaks is missed. If a leak is found, always continue to test the remainder of the system.
7. Recheck service valves with caps removed. Blow shop air over service valve to clear
immediate area and then check with the detector set at 7 g/yr (0.25 oz/yr) Medium sensitivity.
8. Move the detector at a rate of no more than 75 mm/sec (3 in/sec) and as close as possible
to 9.3 mm (3/8 in) from the surface, completely encircling each test position (switch, sensor,
refrigerant tubing connection etc).
9. Slower movement and closer approach of the probe improves the probability of finding a leak.
However, detectors made to meet this standard are required to air sample and detect a leak
from a distance of 9.5mm (3/8 in) distance. Therefore, retest is advised at the most sensitive
setting, when a leak appears to be found, particularly if the probe was in a static position on a
joint or making physical contact with a joint as it was moving. Repeat with a moving probe test
at that location, taking care to maintain a small gap (9.5 mm or 3/8 in) to confirm that the leak
is of a repairable size. Using a 7 g/yr (0.25 oz/yr) Medium sensitivity setting on the detector,
after finding an apparent leak with the 4 g/yr (0.15 oz/yr) High sensitivity setting, may also be
very helpful.
SPECIFICATIONS
Sensing Element:
Sensor Life:
Refrigerants:
Sensitivity Levels:
Response Time:
Battery:
Battery Life:
Operating Temperature Range:
Weight:
"Super Sensitive Function" allows the unit further sensitizing beyond the standard settings for
locating small leaks with gases such as R1234yf and R407C.
Probe Properties
2
Tin Oxide Element
2000 hours
Detects all refrigerants (HFC, CFC, HCFC, and blends)
HIGH:
0.15 oz/yr (4 g/yr)
MEDIUM:
0.25 oz/yr (7 g/yr)
LOW:
0.50 oz/yr (14g/yr)
Less than 1 second
2 C Alkaline 6000 mAh batteries
30 Hours
0˚F to 120˚F
1.08 Lbs
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English
LED Color: Red
LED Color: Yellow
LED Color: Green