 |
30-06-2014, 17:58
|
#1
|
Registered User
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: aboard Akka, currently in San Francisco Bay
Boat: Stevens Custom 50
Posts: 77
|
Shrader Valves in Refrigeration System
My system was originally built for R12 refrigerant and still has the original fittings for attaching hoses, though I long ago converted to R134a. My problem is that I've got a malfunctioning Shrader valve and can't unscrew it to replace it. I recovered the gas, so I only need to unscrew the valve core. I own 5 separate tools intended for this purpose, but three of them are plastic and won't take the torque I need to unscrew the core, while two of them are the same size as the outside threads on the Shrader fittings so they don't fit inside the threads in the port  . The best thing, I think, would be a tool with a screwdriver handle and a split end, wide enough to bridge the Shrader core but narrow enough to fit inside the port. Also, strong enough to remove the stuck fitting. Is there such a tool? If so, how do I specify the size I need, and where can I get it?
|
|
|
30-06-2014, 18:05
|
#2
|
Registered User
Join Date: Feb 2013
Location: Oregon
Boat: Seafarer36c
Posts: 5,563
|
Re: Shrader valves in refrigeration system
Truflate Plews makes that exact tool.
|
|
|
30-06-2014, 20:37
|
#3
|
Registered User
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: San Antonio, TX/Bocas del Toro, Panama
Boat: 1990 Macintosh 47, "Merlin"
Posts: 2,869
|
Re: Shrader valves in refrigeration system
Tire professionals have these.
|
|
|
30-06-2014, 20:47
|
#4
|
Marine Service Provider
Join Date: Jul 2011
Location: Baltimore
Posts: 1,346
|
Re: Shrader valves in refrigeration system
HVAC shops sell 'lock' style tools that permit removal and replacement of shrader valves without evacuating the systems as well as the more common tools; either should do this for you; make sure that you get a good vacuum with 134a before recharging...
__________________
Scott Berg
WAØLSS
SV CHARDONNAY
|
|
|
30-06-2014, 20:54
|
#5
|
Registered User
Join Date: May 2008
Location: daytona beach florida
Boat: csy 37
Posts: 2,976
|
Re: Shrader valves in refrigeration system
Go to any auto parts store, tire repair section. Cost just a couple of dollars. Might even find one in a bicycle shop...
Sent from my GT-P3113 using Cruisers Sailing Forum mobile app
|
|
|
30-06-2014, 20:54
|
#6
|
Registered User
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: San Antonio, TX/Bocas del Toro, Panama
Boat: 1990 Macintosh 47, "Merlin"
Posts: 2,869
|
Re: Shrader valves in refrigeration system
Scott makes a good point. You can also look on youtube for videos about replacing them without losing refrigerant.
Also, if you are interested, you can take the online course and test, and get EPA certified to do your own work on your boat (or for hire, 5 pounds of refrigerant or less), for $25. I did.
|
|
|
23-07-2014, 08:58
|
#7
|
Registered User
Join Date: Oct 2009
Location: Redondo Beach, CA
Boat: 1990 Oyster 55
Posts: 468
|
Quote:
Originally Posted by bstreep
Scott makes a good point. You can also look on youtube for videos about replacing them without losing refrigerant.
Also, if you are interested, you can take the online course and test, and get EPA certified to do your own work on your boat (or for hire, 5 pounds of refrigerant or less), for $25. I did.
|
Which license did you get? Which service did you go with?
|
|
|
23-07-2014, 09:16
|
#8
|
Moderator Emeritus

Join Date: Oct 2013
Location: Jacksonville/ out cruising
Boat: Island Packet 38
Posts: 31,348
|
Re: Shrader valves in refrigeration system
I'm licensed for HVAC, I think License says high pressure or something, don't remember any refrigerant weight limit. Only time I have ever had to show it was to buy refrigerant, but 134a you can buy over the counter, why would you need a license?
|
|
|
26-07-2014, 11:10
|
#9
|
Registered User
Join Date: Oct 2009
Location: Redondo Beach, CA
Boat: 1990 Oyster 55
Posts: 468
|
Re: Shrader valves in refrigeration system
Quote:
Originally Posted by bstreep
Scott makes a good point. You can also look on youtube for videos about replacing them without losing refrigerant.
Also, if you are interested, you can take the online course and test, and get EPA certified to do your own work on your boat (or for hire, 5 pounds of refrigerant or less), for $25. I did.
|
I have the 608 Type 1 license for small equipment. What I am trying to determine if is there is an advantage in also having the 609 (Motor Vehicle servicing license) in addition.
It appears you can work on cars (so long as you are working on your own car or working on someone else's without any form of compensation) without a license.
I am curious if there is some benefit to having both licenses or the 608 Type 2 , Type 3, or universal. Being that I just want to work on the systems on my own boat I can't see any reason I would need anything else.
Am I missing something.
|
|
|
26-07-2014, 11:14
|
#10
|
Registered User
Join Date: Oct 2009
Location: Redondo Beach, CA
Boat: 1990 Oyster 55
Posts: 468
|
Re: Shrader Valves in Refrigeration System
Quote:
Originally Posted by Akka
My system was originally built for R12 refrigerant and still has the original fittings for attaching hoses, though I long ago converted to R134a. My problem is that I've got a malfunctioning Shrader valve and can't unscrew it to replace it. I recovered the gas, so I only need to unscrew the valve core. I own 5 separate tools intended for this purpose, but three of them are plastic and won't take the torque I need to unscrew the core, while two of them are the same size as the outside threads on the Shrader fittings so they don't fit inside the threads in the port  . The best thing, I think, would be a tool with a screwdriver handle and a split end, wide enough to bridge the Shrader core but narrow enough to fit inside the port. Also, strong enough to remove the stuck fitting. Is there such a tool? If so, how do I specify the size I need, and where can I get it?
|
What kind of system is it? A rotary compressor or a hermetic compressor. If a large hermetic compressor (say 1/2 hp) I would be curious about if you have had long term success.
|
|
|
 |
Thread Tools |
Search this Thread |
|
|
Display Modes |
Rate This Thread |
Linear Mode
|
|
Posting Rules
|
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts
HTML code is Off
|
|
|
|
Advertise Here
Recent Discussions |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Vendor Spotlight |
|
|