Vacuum Pump

[PJ Moran]

This might belong in the tools section, but...

I'm trying to figure out why my factory (totally rebuilt with all new, improved parts) won't blow cold. I keep getting pointed to bad vacuum motors or a bad vacuum switch in the dash. But, to test those, I need a source of vacuum. I work in an enclosed, air-conditioned garage, so I can't keep the car running just to produce vacuum. Besides, I want to hear any leaks, too.

What can I use to pull a vacuum of 15 - 20" to test the system? I don't need a full-blown pump like they use to evacuate AC systems. I don't want to pay a bunch of money for it, either. There's bound to be a clever solution out there.

 

[AzPete]

I have used the mini vac used for brake bleeding. Not sure how much they can pull but I have been able to get enough to test for leaks.

You could also give up the A/C in the garage for a couple mins.

Are the hoses getting cold?

Does the heater work properly? Are those the same controls that are used for the A/C? I would think so.

 

[Mach1Rider]

I use a simple hand held vac pump that I got at napa(or other auto stores) for testing for under $25.
It works great for this type of controller testing as it will eather operate the unit or not and with the attached guage it will show minor leaks too.

 

[Sluggo]

I use a simple hand held vac pump that I got at napa(or other auto stores) for testing for under $25.
It works great for this type of controller testing as it will eather operate the unit or not and with the attached guage it will show minor leaks too.

+1

You won't hear the leak most likely, but you can see it on the gauge.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/images/B0002SQYUA/sr=8-3/qid=1276951867/ref=dp_image_0?ie=UTF8&n=15684181&s=automotive&qid=1276951867&sr=8-3

 

[gotstang]

I have a lab-quality vacuum pump that I got from an ebay surplus liquidator for ~$30 that I use for A/C work...works great for other stuff, heck, it's rated for dang near any chemical. Might be worth looking for something similar on ebay?