Re: ac programmer

[zm@mhcnet.lucent.com (Zafer Mehmood)]

> In checking my AC programer vacuum hoses for possible oil, I
> notice that inside the programmer there was one fitting that was missing a
> vacuum line. Should there be a blank one or do I need to put another in?

This is normal. Inside the programmer, there is a 5 point vacuum fitting.
One of the outlets should have a small cap (red). See if this is in place
or else find a way to seal that.

> I know I'm beating this one to death, but does anyone know a way of 
> testing the vacuum solenoid valves in the a programmer?  Also, I need 
> to know where to get replacement valves.

I don't think you can get replacement solenoid valves, except from another
programmer in a junkyard. AC Delco made the programmer, so may be you can
get solenoids from them. Got to be very careful testing those valves;
I burnt a transistor on the board trying to test a solenoid with 12v
applied across the solenoid contacts, without first electrically isolating
the solenoid. If you want to test, use a low voltage (about 5 volts) and
desolder at least one of the solenoid leads.

Regarding vacuum-testing the valves, its tricky; I was unable to do it
successfully. I think the solenoids are designed to bleed vacuum to the
atmosphere when valve is not closed. I have been reasonably successful
in revitalizing the valve seals inside the solenoids by disconnecting
the vacuum lines to each solenoid (label them first) and spraying
electrical contact cleaner (buy some from Radio Shack, this won't eat
rubber seals) through the vacuum ports while shaking the solenoids.
After the cleaner has completely evaporated, reattach the vacuum lines
with a small amount of adhesive to hold them securely.

Hope this helps.

Zafer
'87 5000TQ IA Stage II with 160+ K miles