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[markomega25]

Hi,

After finally getting my 2.5 V6 Elite facelift (year 2000) working again after 3 months, I decided to get the Air Con working as it has not worked for some time. Checked the compressor today and it was not kicking in on low on the panel (without Econ on), so I suspected low or no gas and/or a leak.

Well, took it to Kwik Fit today (they were local and I wanted to get it done today if possible). Connected to their machine and underwent the pressure testing. The Evacuation cycle got virtually no gas out (so the system was empty). Turns out the valve on the Low Pressure connection (on the top pipe running from bulkhead alongside the plenum chamber) is leaking. The Kwik Fit chap went and got a tool to tighten the valve but after trying said it was already tight. No Charge, but at least I know where the leak is (the machine must have put some gas in the system as I could see the gas spurting out the valve).

My question, can the valve be replaced on its own or will it need a whole new section of pipe?

I'm not so worried about it now the weather has changed but would like to know if this is an easy fix.

Thanks.

[Jukeboxnut]

Yes, it is a standard tyre valve which is approximately 50p.  I have just replaced this valve on my car and now the aircon is working fine again.

[ronnyd]

You mean to say that you got out of Qwik Fit without being shafted? Blimey

[markomega25]

Thanks Jukeboxnut,

So it's a Schrader tyre valve insert - I would not have guessed that. I have the little tool that unscrews the core from the body of the tyre valve (one on the end of my old tyre pressure gauge - hope its long enough). As my air con system is empty I will get a new one from a tyre shop and swap over.

Yes ronnyd, no charge - it is part of their guarantee if they can't fill it and get it working. At least I now know where the leak is.

[Andy B]

and the other fill valve is also replaceable on its own ..... despite the experts telling you the whole pipe need replacing 

[markomega25]

and the other fill valve is also replaceable on its own ..... despite the experts telling you the whole pipe need replacing 

Thanks, I meant to ask if the High Pressure valve insert is the same. Would it be best to replace that as well at the same time or leave well alone (could the high pressure side still have some in it even though the low pressure side is empty?).

[05omegav6]

High pressure valve is different, but both are readily available 

Just to add, the HP valve is an odd size, but will undo easily enough with an adjustable spanner. The LP one will undo, but needs lifting out with a thin pair of long nose pliers once it stops unscrewing

[Andy B]

and the other fill valve is also replaceable on its own ..... despite the experts telling you the whole pipe need replacing 

Thanks, I meant to ask if the High Pressure valve insert is the same. Would it be best to replace that as well at the same time or leave well alone (could the high pressure side still have some in it even though the low pressure side is empty?).

It's not the same at the LP valve. It's only a few quid, so as & when the system is empty, it wouldn't be a bad idea to change it. I'll try & find the part number .....

[Andy B]

http://oldsite.omegaowners.com/forum/YaBB.pl?num=1311186687/0

52458177 part number as given by Andy C .......... so it's definitely correct 

[markomega25]

Great thanks for the info guys.

I will get in touch with my VX dealer and see if they have one in stock and set about doing it have to be this weekend now.

Will let you know if VX say the HP valve is not listed (as per the experience of the poster in the thread linked above).

[Andy B]

Great thanks for the info guys.

I will get in touch with my VX dealer and see if they have one in stock and set about doing it have to be this weekend now.

Will let you know if VX say the HP valve is not listed (as per the experience of the poster in the thread linked above).

Make sure you support the boss that's welded to the pipe while you unscrew the valve ....... otherwise it stands a good chance of shearing (doesn't it Jamie  ) 

[markomega25]

Went to my local VX dealer yesterday. They have part number 52458177 on their list, costs about £6.80p but, none available anywhere in Europe. The parts guy said try a scrap yard! When I asked what they would do if I took the car into them for repair he had no answer! Typical. So for the moment I will leave the HP valve alone as that was not leaking.

Also asked whilst there about the LP valve - they will sell one for £3.81p. I walked out.

Good news is I went to my local tyre dealer and after having a laugh, he gave me 3 schrader valve inserts - free of charge (he did agree though that they were probably the right valve for the AC). So I will try to get that done this weekend and get the system re-filled. I might go to a different Kwik Fit this time so if there is another leak then I won't get charged again (they will remember me at the first one).

[Andy B]

... none available anywhere in Europe. ...

I'd not want to call him a liar  but I find that hard to believe considering it's not just fitted to Omegas ...... I know it's the same valve fitted to an Astra G so there must be plenty of other models fitted with it.

[biggriffin]

If you can't get the HP valve, just remove the old one and clean it with brake cleaner.

[05omegav6]

... none available anywhere in Europe. ...

I'd not want to call him a liar  but I find that hard to believe considering it's not just fitted to Omegas ...... I know it's the same valve fitted to an Astra G so there must be plenty of other models fitted with it.

Bought one a month ago ish next day availability no issues at all