Irish, my 07 V8V has gone through 2 AC services within the past year. The system checked out OK but needed re-charge each time (last done 2 months ago during AM annual service). With the recent temp increase, I experienced non-cool air for a few minutes over the weekend while cruising on the highway. I switched to AUTO but didn't do the trick. I have a feeling another service might be needed before end of summer. Will the updated cam gear help? MTIA!

 

Your in Chicago, guessing you deal with Lake Forest? Know they had some problems with keeping Aston guys..none the less, awesome place, been there for trainings numerous times..anyways, thats off topic

The A/C should not need to be service for at least a 5 years period(normal mileage, so say 10,000-15,000miles per year x 5) ..If the system was service twice with no leaks, detected..either guy checking for leaks didn't do a thorough check, or missed to check the evap and compressor. Some common A/C causes on all cars that when tested do not show a leak are evaporator and compressor shaft seal leaks. You can't get at the evaporator behind the dash so most don't know how to check, and the compressor shaft seal when faulty usually leaks when turning(engine running and A/C on)

Some garages vacuum the system for a leak, this has been proved wrong...pressure testing the system with N2 @about 250-300psi for 30-40mins is a better solution to finding a leak(do not start the car while testing at 250-300psi), with the high pressure you can can simulate the compressor shaft seal leak unlike a vacuum test that will suck the seal closed and seal the leak.

I don't think it's the cam gear, for this just directs the flow better, but if your system is being recharged over and over in a short period(under 2 years)..it's a garanteed leak..if it's been under a year since repair, I'd make them get to the bottom of this, for R134A is harmfull to breath, you can actually pass out from lack of O2

In my area, if I filled a vehicle that leaks still after..fines are 500-2,000$ and 2,000-20,000$ for the garage all given out by the government if proven guilty..hehe so when it leaves here, it better be good!!

If the cold air comes on when starting, but once driving and engine is getting hot, then A/C cuts out..R134A can be low..aka a leak, but common for this is a worn A/C compressor clutch..when the clutch gets to hot and it's worn(gap to large), the clutch has a hard time staying engaged and releases..fix would be to replace the compressor clutch(don't remember if there is shims, if there is..a fast fix is to toss a shim and refit it all back together..but this would only get you some time, not the proper fix)

 

Yes, they were also the one that quoted 1 hr for the N420 rear diffuser installation but ended up voided the quote and sent me to another shop. Go figure besides that, so far so good.

Not sure if we have such regulation here. But I certainly hope they will rework on my AC leakage at their cost due to their misdiagnosis. Thanks Irish! I should owe you a drink or two. Will report back after I bring it in.

 

Irish,
I'd also like the part number for the "new improved" cam gear if you have it.
Thanks,
Dick

 

For a LHD vehicle, this is the part# AG43-19502-AA for the 10MY+ vehicles, it is a black gear that allows cooler air, install this into a pre-10MY vehicle and get the same results..

 

You can order from Aston and then get Josh at ECS to install it, or you can try to order via Josh. If you are in northern VA.