Ac leak detectors..any recommendations?

[joedodge]

Hey guys I'm a auto truck tech and looking to get a electronic detector I mostly use dye and uv but want electronic detector.any one got any recommendations for a decently priced unit that works well. I grew up in commercial refrigeration and know the rep of tif products if possible I'd like to stay away from them if possible but if there's one everyone loves I'd give it a shot

 

[CJKaz]

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=186592&highlight=Refrigerant

 

[joedodge]

Ya thanks I know how and what to use to find leaks I'm looking for opinions on what brands and models other techs are using

 

[Tarheelgarage]

Inficon d-tek select....

 

[joedodge]

Very cool thanks Tarheel ill look into the inficon

 

[bonneyman]

I've used the dye a little on home HVAC. It worked OK, but then some reclaimers refused freon recycled from units if it had dye in it. So, I went back to the old stand-bye. Soap bubbles.
I had a TIF 5600 years ago, but I don't know if it works on the new refrigerants.

 

[joedodge]

Dye sometime won't work in a pro atmosphere it has its place thanks

 

[CJKaz]

Few opinions in the thread I posted

http://hvac-talk.com/vbb/showthread.php?419592-Choosing-the-best-refrigeration-leak-detector

Have several H10 units, Yokagawa branded. Used on ultra low temp cascade systems. Might be overkill for automotive use & pricey, but very sensitive and durable.

 

[joedodge]

Awesome thanks a lot

 

[GTA Matt]

I have a snap on ACT785B. Don't know if it is rebranded from another company or not but it gives a digital readout with the level of the leak, has different sensitivity levels and has a built in UV light. Yes it is pricey, but it has saved me a lot of time.

http://buy1.snapon.com/catalog/item...roup_ID=682329&store=snapon-store&dir=catalog

 

[joedodge]

Thanks a ton Matt that's a good looking unit

 

[chris142]

The only one that works wort a damn is the black box that plugs into the wall! The battery operated ones absolutly **** no matter who sells them. All ****! I've had several battery powered ones over the years and gave up on them.

My last one was a Mac one. I could open the valve on my R134a can and put the sensor in the stream of refrigerant and it would not pick it up! Sent it back to Mac and they said it was fine and sent it back.

Still did not work! I smashed it up and gave it back to the Mac guy after he refused to help me with it.