Fluorescent Dye Detection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Ford RV Cutaway, 2005 Ford Econoline, 2005 Ford E450 Super Duty, and 2005 Ford Cutaway. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Ford Motor Company vehicles are produced with R-134a fluorescent dye installed in the refrigerant system from the factory. The location of leaks can be pinpointed by the bright yellow-green glow of the fluorescent dye under a UV lamp. Since more than one leak can exist, make sure to inspect each component, line, and fitting in the refrigerant system for a leak.

Check for leaks using a Rotunda-approved UV lamp.
- Inspect all components, lines, and fittings of the refrigerant system.
  
  Fig 1: Checking For Leaks Using Rotunda-Approved UV Lamp
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
If a leak is found, recover the refrigerant. For additional information, refer to AIR CONDITIONING (A/C) SYSTEM RECOVERY, EVACUATION AND CHARGING .
Repair the refrigerant system leak(s).
Evacuate and charge the refrigerant system. For additional information, refer to AIR CONDITIONING (A/C) SYSTEM RECOVERY, EVACUATION AND CHARGING .
After the leak(s) is/are repaired, remove any traces of fluorescent dye with a general purpose oil solvent.
Verify the repair by running the vehicle for a short period of time and rechecking the area of the leak with a Rotunda approved UV lamp.

Fig 2: Checking For Leaks Using Rotunda-Approved UV Lamp
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.