How to Add Freon to a 2004 Chevy Silverado
by Johnathan Cronk
Freon is a chemical that mixes with air to cool the air. Freon is commonly used in air conditioners to create the cool air in which it blows out. Overtime, the Freon may need to be recharged in your Chevy Silverado due to a slow leak or if the system is used frequently. You will notice the air blowing out is warm and the system is not working to its full capacity. You can choose to have a local mechanic recharge the system for you, but this can be rather expensive. A more cost effective method is to purchase a recharge kit, called R134a, and recharge the system yourself.
Step 1
Place the Silverado into "park" on a level surface, such as a paved driveway. Allow the Silverado to sit for a half hour, giving components time to cool, preventing potentially serious burns.
Step 2
Open the hood of the Silverado and find the air conditioning system low-pressure hose and fitting. The fitting is found directly on the hose. The low-pressure hose can be identified as the hose going from the compressor to the accumulator. Refer to the Silverado owner's manual, if needed.
Step 3
Connect the Freon recharge kit by attaching the recharge hose that is included with the kit to the top of the can. The hose will snap onto the valve by pushing it in place. Once the hose is connected, turn the recharge kit on by twisting the valve to the "on" position.
Step 4
Attach the recharge kit hose to the low-pressure fitting under the hood of the vehicle. The hose will snap right onto the fitting. Hold the can upright to ensure maximum flow of Freon.
Step 5
Start the engine of the Silverado by turning the ignition key. Turn the air conditioner settings to the highest available setting. This will start the recharge process. Allow the system to charge until the can of R134a is empty.
Step 6
Turn the engine off and turn the R134a valve to the "off" position. Disconnect the recharge kit from the low-pressure hose fitting. Close the hood of the Silverado and repeat this process anytime recharge is necessary.
References
Things You'll Need
- Owner's manual
- R134a Refrigerant kit
Writer Bio
Johnathan Cronk is a freelance writer and began writing at the age of 18. Throughout his career he has specialized in sports, how-to and advice articles. He has also written sales pitches in the corporate setting since 2001. He studied business at Hudson Valley Community College before transferring to the State University of New York, Albany.
