AC Gauge Set - No clearance Alternator

[thegamemaster]

When you go to connect your gauge set to the high and low sides on the top of the compressor, there isn't enough clearance to connect the front (low side) gauge. How to you charge the system if you can't read it? Run it without the water pump turning (same belt)? I couldn't find a belt that would fit to run the just the water pump or water pump and alternator is in a position to give the compressor clearance. Am I missing something? How did the service centers ever fix the AC with the clearance so low?

1984 Toyota Tercel - 5d sedan - 130k all original.

Rodney

[SirFoxx]

there should be a low side service port near the drier as well.

[thegamemaster]

There is an unlabeled port next to the dryer on the passenger side of the car. The AC diagrams all seem to point to that being the high side port (discharge side - liquid). The only low side (suction side - gas) is on top of the compressor under the alternator. And you have move the alternator up, disengaging the belt, thus disengaging the water pump, in order to charge the system. You have to turn the car on to charge it without a water pump or alternator. Quickly charge it before it damages the engine from overheating. I am sure there is a better way that the Toyota techs used to charge it.

[SirFoxx]

There is an unlabeled port next to the dryer on the passenger side of the car. The AC diagrams all seem to point to that being the high side port (discharge side - liquid). The only low side (suction side - gas) is on top of the compressor under the alternator. And you have move the alternator up, disengaging the belt, thus disengaging the water pump, in order to charge the system. You have to turn the car on to charge it without a water pump or alternator. Quickly charge it before it damages the engine from overheating. I am sure there is a better way that the Toyota techs used to charge it.

this is not true. you do not have to undo the alternator / water pump belt to charge the system. between the 1g and 2g tercels ive owner, i've never had to do that.