Recommend me a UV light for AC dye leak detection

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I can't seem to find anything using my uView light, and want something better.
I think the one that I have is this one:
https://www.amazon.com/Uview-413010-Battery-Powered-Detection/dp/B000NBWCFC

I am thinking of getting something like the UVBeast Version 2:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078Y6G469/ref=twister_B07BN2X9QZ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

But I have reservations about using something that large inside an engine bay. That, and if I want something large, perhaps something like a UB light bulb in a drop light that puts out a lot of UV light might work better??? And what wavelength of light is appropriate for typical automotive dye?
 
I have an AC leak and two to UV lights and dye. I can't find anything. Starting to think it's my vision that just doesn't see this wavelength. Sorry, I can't help you but I can surely commiserate with you.
 
Originally Posted By: Leo99
I have an AC leak and two to UV lights and dye. I can't find anything.


What UV lights are you using? I want to make sure I don't get either one of those!
 
I bought a Sunlite Slim from my Snap on man last year and I like it. They seem to be tough to find online and expensive. I paid half of what I see them on amazon for.
 
Originally Posted By: Donald
Forget the UV light. Get a sniffer.


Leak detection dye works VERY well. I have seen to many false diagnosis made with freon sniffers.
 
Originally Posted By: Chris142
What kind of car?


1995 Ford Escort
1999 Oldsmobile Alero with V6 engine
2000 Toyota Camry


Originally Posted By: Chris142
Are you using the light at night?


Yes, always in a garage after dark.


Originally Posted By: Donald
Forget the UV light. Get a sniffer.


I've got one of those as well, and I still can't find any leaks in any of the above three cars.

All vehicles pass a regular visual inspection as well (no obvious oil leaks from AC system). The Escort leaks the worst, as in it practically leaks right out in 2 days. I have even tried soapy water to check for leaks on the Escort and not found anything. I should probably just remove the A/C from the Escort, since running it is like driving while dragging an anchor. The Camry can go a whole season on a can. The Alero a few weeks to a month in between recharges (although it sits all winter and I believe that "V5" type compressor is famous for seam leaks).
 
Last edited:
Originally Posted By: zzyzzx
Originally Posted By: Chris142
What kind of car?


1995 Ford Escort
1999 Oldsmobile Alero with V6 engine
2000 Toyota Camry


Originally Posted By: Chris142
Are you using the light at night?


Yes, always in a garage after dark.


Originally Posted By: Donald
Forget the UV light. Get a sniffer.


I've got one of those as well, and I still can't find any leaks in any of the above three cars.

All vehicles pass a regular visual inspection as well (no obvious oil leaks from AC system). The Escort leaks the worst, as in it practically leaks right out in 2 days. I have even tried soapy water to check for leaks on the Escort and not found anything. I should probably just remove the A/C from the Escort, since running it is like driving while dragging an anchor. The Camry can go a whole season on a can. The Alero a few weeks to a month in between recharges (although it sits all winter and I believe that "V5" type compressor is famous for seam leaks).
escort.front seal behind the clutch hub. Olds front seal also and compressor body. Toyota big square oring on top of compressor.
smile.gif
 
Last edited:
Wf-502B Cheap and it works for me.

Can't find a leak under the hood, shine the light on the evap case drain and see if that shows anything. Heated sensor type detectors work a lot better than halogen detectors. Almost anything can set off a halogen detector, not so with thermal based ones. Cost will kill you though.
 
Originally Posted By: Chris142
Originally Posted By: zzyzzx
Originally Posted By: Chris142
What kind of car?


1995 Ford Escort
1999 Oldsmobile Alero with V6 engine
2000 Toyota Camry

escort.front seal behind the clutch hub. Olds front seal also and compressor body. Toyota big square oring on top of compressor.
smile.gif




You have a very good chance of being correct on all three. Never heard about the square oring on top of the compressor, will have to check that one out.
 
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