Robinair LD9-TGKIT Tracer Gas Leak Detector Service Kit User Manual

Model: LD9-TG

Dual Mode Tracer Gas

Leak Detector

Model: LD9-TGKIT

A/C System Tracer Gas

Leak Detection Service Kit

Operating Instructions

(original instructions)

ROBINAIR.COM 800.533.6127

(en-US)

Contents

Introduction ........................................ 3

Features ........................................... 3

LD9-TG Control Panel ............................... 4

Operating Instructions for LD9-TG ................... 4

UV and Inspection Light Operation ................... 5

Leak Size Indicator ................................. 6

Sweep (Pinpoint) Mode ............................. 6

Automatic and Manual Calibration ................... 7

Adjusting Sensitivity Levels ......................... 7

Audio Mute Function ............................... 8

Leak Test Vial ...................................... 8

Replacing Batteries ................................. 8

Replacing Sensor and Sensor Filter .................. 9

User Interface Displays ............................ 10

Product Specications ............................. 11

Product Application Ambient ....................... 11

Replacement Parts for LD9-TG ..................... 11

Cross Sensitivity to Automotive Chemicals .......... 12

Operating Instructions for LD9-TGKIT ............... 13

Replacement Parts for LD9-TGKIT .................. 14

Product Cleaning Instructions ...................... 15

Warranty .......................................... 15

LD9-TG AND LD9-TGKIT OPERATIONS MANUAL

PAGE 2

Introduction

The LD9-TG features sensor technology designed to detect a 5%

hydrogen / 95% nitrogen tracer gas mixture. The LD9-TG’s full

color liquid crystal display (LCD) and sweep mode function convey

messages, graphics, and prompts to help the A/C technician locate the

source of a leak and ensure that the leak detector is always at optimal

performance. The light-emitting diode (LED) inspection lights aid the

technician in locating and inspecting suspected leak sources.

When used with the hydrogen/nitrogen tracer gas mixture, the

LD9-TG will detect leak rates equivalent to 4 g/year of R-134a in the

High setting, and 7 g/year in the Normal setting while moving at 3

inches (8 cm) per second. This complies with SAE J2970 sections

7.2 and 7.3. Testing with tracer gas also complies with European

standards EN 35422 and EN 14624.

Features

• Patented 3 LED ultraviolet (UV) lights with 395–415 nm

wavelengths optimized for A/C dye uorescence

• Full color LCD with user-friendly message and error screens

• Sensitivity equivalent to .015 oz/yr of R-1234yf in High mode

• Sensitivity equivalent to .05 oz/yr for R-134a in High mode

• Certied to SAE J2970

• Sweep mode function to pinpoint leak source

• Automatic calibration and reset to ambient air

• High-intensity LED inspection light

• 3 sensitivity levels

• Low battery indicator

• True mechanical pump

• Audio mute function

• Uses 4 AA alkaline batteries

• CE certied

• Ergonomic Santoprene handle grip

• 2-year warranty

LD9-TG AND LD9-TGKIT OPERATIONS MANUAL

PAGE 3

LD9-TG Control Panel

Operating Instructions

1. Turn On: Press the ON/OFF button once to turn on; press again to turn off.

NOTE: The LD9-TG defaults to SAE J2970 mode on power up. Hold down

ON/OFF button to select the Sensitivity Boost mode for smaller leaks.

2. Warm Up: The detector automatically starts heating the sensor. During

the heating cycle, the LCD will display the message “WARM UP PLEASE

WAIT” with a progress bar. Warm up is usually less than 20 seconds.

3. Search: The display will show the message “READY” and then “SEARCH”

when the detector begins to search for leaks. An audible beep will begin

to sound. Move the probe tip towards a suspected refrigerant leak at the

rate of less than 2 inches (~5 cm) per second, no more than 1/4 inch

(~0.6 cm) away from the suspected source.

4. Detection: If a leak exists, the beeping will increase in rate and pitch and

the display will show the numerical indication of the leak size.

NOTE: The leak detector responds to changes in tracer gas

concentration. When detection occurs, move the probe away from the

source and back again to conrm the leak source. The detector’s audible

beeping will reset if the probe is held xed at the source (see Automatic

Calibration).

Full Color LCD

Audio Mute

Sweep (Pinpoint) Mode

UV or White Inspection Light

Sensitivity Level Indicators

ON/OFF Button

LD9-TG AND LD9-TGKIT OPERATIONS MANUAL

PAGE 4

UV Light and Inspection Light Operation

Before leak checking with the UV light:

a. Make sure the A/C system is properly charged with sucient dye.

(See manufacturer’s specications for proper dye charge.)

b. Run the A/C system long enough to thoroughly mix and circulate the dye

(sold separately) with the refrigerant and lubricating oil.

1. Turn on UV light by pressing the LED button once. (See control panel on page 4.)

Three UV lights will turn on

(see image below).

2. Holding the leak detector approximately 10–14 inches (25–35 cm) away,

shine the UV light beam slowly over the components, hoses, and metal

ttings that make up the A/C system.

3. When the UV light shines on the uorescent dye that has escaped from the

system, the dye will glow a bright yellow green.

3 UV Lights

2 White Inspection Lights

1. Turn on the inspection light by pressing the LED button until the white LED

lights turn on.

(See control panel on page 4.)

2. Inspect all components, hoses, and ttings for excessive wear or damage.

NOTE: If not manually turned off, the UV light and inspection light will

automatically shut off after 5 minutes to preserve battery life.

•

Avoid direct eye and skin exposure to UV light.

•

Wear personal protective equipment that meets ANSI/ISEA

and OSHA standards.

CAUTION: UV LIGHT EMITS ULTRAVIOLET RADIATION

LD9-TG AND LD9-TGKIT OPERATIONS MANUAL

PAGE 5

Leak Size Indicator

Once a leak is detected, the leak size indicator

bar graph will display on the detector screen.

The number of bars will increase or decrease

depending on the amount of tracer gas detected.

The maximum value of the tracer gas will be

displayed once the leak source has been located.

Refer to the table below to determine the

approximate size of the leak.

Sweep (Pinpoint) Mode

Turn on sweep mode by pressing the MODE

button. This mode allows the user to pinpoint

hard to nd small leaks. The display cursor

will sweep across the display from left to right

tracking a horizontal baseline over a 3 second

period.

When no tracer gas is detected, the display

cursor will be at. If tracer gas is detected, the

cursor on the display will rise up and continue

to rise as the leak source is approached. If the

detector moves away from the leak source, the

cursor will drop back down.

NOTE: The default sensitivity level in the sweep

mode is High.

Maximum Bars Displayed Leak Size (oz/yr)

1–2 (green color) < 0.1

3–5 (yellow color) 0.1–0.5

6–10 (red color) > 0.5

MED SENS

LEAK SIZE

AUTO

HI SENS

LEAK LOCATION

AUTO

LD9-TG AND LD9-TGKIT OPERATIONS MANUAL

PAGE 6

Automatic and Manual Calibration

After a leak is identied, the detector will recalibrate itself either

automatically (default) or manually to the ambient air and resume

audibly beeping as soon as the leak is detected again.

In Automatic mode, the detector will automatically recalibrate if the

probe is held xed at the source of the leak, and the detector will not

beep again until the probe is moved away from the source and back

again. In Manual mode, the detector will continue to beep if tracer gas

is detected until the user presses the SENS button to recalibrate.

To use the detector in Manual mode, press and hold the SENS button

and release when the AUTO icon is replaced with MANUAL on the

display. To return to Automatic Calibration, press and hold the SENS

button and release when the AUTO icon is displayed.

NOTE: The sensitivity levels can only be changed in Automatic

mode. To change sensitivity levels while in Manual mode, switch to

Automatic mode and select the desired sensitivity level, then return

back to Manual mode.

Adjusting Sensitivity Levels

While in automatic mode, the detector can be set to 3 different

sensitivity levels (LO, MED, HI). If the detector continues to beep after

moving it away from the source of the leak, the sensitivity level can be

adjusted so the detector will only sound when the probe is close to the

leak source.

The detector will default to the MED sensitivity level automatically

once the unit comes out of the warm up cycle. To change sensitivity

levels, press the SENS once for HI sensitivity and again for LO

sensitivity.

LD9-TG AND LD9-TGKIT OPERATIONS MANUAL

PAGE 7

Audio Mute Function

To mute the audible beep, press the MUTE button. To restore the audible

beep, press the MUTE button again. (NOTE: There is a few seconds lapse

to restore sound if the MUTE button is pressed in rapid succession.)

Leak Test Vial

The leak detector comes with a leak test vial that allows the user to

verify that the detector is performing properly. Check the expiration date

on the vial before testing the leak detector.

1. Remove the colored label dot on the center of the screw cap to

expose the vent hole.

2. Turn on the detector and allow the unit to complete the warm up

cycle. Set sensitivity level to HIGH.

3. Place the probe tip close to the hole in the leak test vial. The beep

rate should increase and the leak size indicator should display 3–6

bars, indicating that the sensor and electronics are working properly.

Replacing Batteries

WARNING: RISK OF FIRE OR EXPLOSION -

Use AA alkaline batteries only in this product. Using the wrong type of

battery could result in a re or explosion.

Replace the batteries when the display shows the message “REPLACE

BATTERIES.”

1. Unscrew battery cover located at the base of the unit as shown.

2. Install four AA alkaline batteries into the battery compartment,

noting the polarity mark on the inside of the battery compartment

for proper battery orientation.

REPLACE

BATTERIES

LD9-TG AND LD9-TGKIT OPERATIONS MANUAL

PAGE 8

Replacing Sensor and Sensor Filter

To Replace Filter: Replace lter when it

becomes visibly dirty or when the display shows

“REPLACE SENSOR FILTER.” Unscrew probe

tip as shown to replace lter. The LD9-TG will

keep track of the number of hours of usage and

advise the user when it is time to replace the

lter.

To Replace Sensor: Remove the sensor by

pulling it out of the socket. Install the new

sensor by aligning the grooves in the sensor

cover with the raised grooves on the sensor

socket holder (see gure below).

NOTE: Do not force the sensor into the socket.

Misalignment can damage the sensor pins.

REPLACE

SENSOR

FILTER

CHECK

SENSOR

CONNECTION

OR REPLACE

SENSOR

CAUTION: The detector’s software is designed to alert the user if the

sensor is dislodged or defective. If the sensor is not fully inserted into the

six-pin socket, or if it is defective, the unit will not come out of the warm

up mode for proper operation when the power button is pressed. In this

case, the message screen “CHECK SENSOR CONNECTION OR REPLACE

SENSOR” will be displayed. Additionally, if the unit becomes unstable

during operation, it is an indication that the sensor may be defective.

NOTE: If the leak detector has been out of use for an extended period of

time, the following action is recommended. Power on the unit and allow

it to come out of warm up, then run it at sensitivity level HI for several

minutes before testing it with the leak test vial. This action will help

ensure that the sensor is fully conditioned for maximum response to the

tracer gas.

Filter

Push straight on (do not twist)

TO INSTALL sensor.

Pull straight out (do not twist)

TO REMOVE sensor.

LD9-TG AND LD9-TGKIT OPERATIONS MANUAL

PAGE 9

Sensor Clearing Message

NOTE: The “SENSOR CLEARING MESSAGE” is displayed when

the sensor becomes saturated with a very large concentration

of gas. Recovery is normally less than 10 seconds, during which

time the sensor will not function optimally.

Replace Sensor Filter Message

NOTE: The “REPLACE SENSOR FILTER” message is displayed

when the detector’s timer registers approximately 30 hours of

accumulated use. Press the appropriate button when prompted

“DONE” or “LATER” on the display. If “DONE” is selected, the

detector will reset to zero hours. If “LATER” is selected, the

detector will continue to prompt the user to replace the lter after

each subsequent use until “DONE” is selected.

CLEARING

SENSOR

PLEASE

WAIT

User Interface Displays

REPLACE

SENSOR

FILTER

Model: LD9-TG

READY

WARM UP

PLEASE WAIT

Power on; unit

displays logo

and model for 3

seconds

No Sound

Warm up

Normal beep rate;

Unit is ready

after 20 seconds

AUTO

MED SENS

LEAK SIZE

AUTO

Rapid beep rate when

leak is detected

MED

AUTO

Unit begins searching

Default is MED and AUTO

SENS

Press to change

sensitivity level

LO, MED, HI

DETECTION

MAN

AUTO

SENS

Hold down

to change

Auto/Manual

Press once to

MUTE

Press again to

UNMUTE

Press for

Leak Location

mode

AUTO

HI SENS MAN

Shows raw signal from sensor

Unit stays in HI and Manual mode

Mute is turned on

Press once for

UV LED

Press twice for

Inspection LED

LD9-TG AND LD9-TGKIT OPERATIONS MANUAL

PAGE 10

Product Specications

Model No. LD9-TG

Name Leak Detector, Dual Mode Tracer Gas

Sensitivity Equiv.: .05 oz/yr R134a; .015 oz/yr R1234yf

UV Mode 3 UV LED

UV Wave-length 395–415 nanometers

Sensor Life > 10 years

Response Time Instantaneous

Power Supply 4 AA alkaline batteries

Battery Life 4 hours continuous

Warm up time < 20 seconds

LCD Display 128 x 160 full color graphic display

Probe Length 17 inches (43 cm)

Weight 1.5 lb (0.7 kg)

Warranty 2 years (includes sensor)

Replacement Parts for LD9-TG

Item Part Number

Sensor with Filter SP01957180

Sensor Filters (5 pack) SP01964946

Leak Test Vial SP01964945

Sensor Tip SP01964944

Parts Kit (includes sensor, test vial & lter kit) SP01957179

Carrying Case SP01957181

Product Application Ambient

• Indoor/Outdoor Use

• Temperature Range: -24—125°F (-31—52°C)

• Humidity Range: <95% Non-Condensing

• Altitude: <10,000 ft.

• Pollution Degree 4

• Protection Grade: IP51

LD9-TG AND LD9-TGKIT OPERATIONS MANUAL

PAGE 11

Cross Sensitivity to Automotive Chemicals

Some automotive solvents and chemicals have similar hydrocarbon

properties as R134a and may elicit a positive response from the detector.

Before leak checking, clean up any chemicals in the list below that elicit a

positive response.

Chemical Name/Brand Response

Rain-X Windshield Wash Fluid Yes

Ford Spot Remover (wet) Yes

Ford Rust Inhibitor Yes

Ford Gasket Adhesive (wet) Yes

Loctite Natural Blue Degreaser (diluted) Yes

Ford Brake Parts Cleaner Yes

Ford Silicone Rubber (uncured) No

Motorcraft Antifreeze heated to 160 degrees F No

Gunk Liquid Wrench Yes

Ford Silicone Lubricant No

Ford Pumice Lotion (with solvent) Yes

Ford Motorcraft Brake Fluid Yes

Ford Carburetor Cleaner Yes

Dextron Transmission Fluid heated to 160 degrees F No

Quaker State Motor Oil heated to 160 degrees F No

LD9-TG AND LD9-TGKIT OPERATIONS MANUAL

PAGE 12

Model: L9-TGKIT (Leak Detection Service Kit)

LD9-TGKIT Components:

• Tracer Gas 100 psi Regulator

• R134a Manual Service Coupler (Red)

• R1234yf Manual Service Coupler (Red)

• 8 ft. (2.4 m) Service Hose (Red)

• 18 in. (46 cm) Carrying Case

• LD9-TG Tracer Gas Leak Detector

Operating Instructions

1. Determine the refrigerant charge of the A/C system using

refrigerant gauges (not included with this tool).

2. If there is a suspected refrigerant leak, use the SAE certied

refrigerant leak detector models LD7, LD5, or LD3 to locate the

leak(s).

3. Using an SAE certied A/C recovery machine (not included

with this tool), vacuum any remaining refrigerant out of the A/C

system.

4. Connect the psi regulator to the tracer gas tank (not included with

this tool) to charge the A/C system with tracer gas.

5. Connect the appropriate R134a or R1234yf service port coupler

tting to the hose and verify that the coupler is in the closed

position.

NOTE: Refrigerant may be used in some electric or hybrid vehicles

to cool the batteries. Refer to the appropriate shop manual

procedures to recover refrigerant from the battery coolant system,

or to charge refrigerant into the system.

6. Open the valve on the tracer gas tank to charge the A/C system

and adjust the psi regulator to 60 psi.

NOTE: Do not exceed the maximum pressure of the A/C

system being serviced. Refer to the appropriate shop manual

specifications.

LD9-TG AND LD9-TGKIT OPERATIONS MANUAL

PAGE 13

7. Purge the air from the hose by loosening the hose fitting to the

R134a or R1234yf service port coupler and then retightening.

8. Connect the service port coupler to the high side service port on

the vehicle and open the service port coupler.

9. Allow the tracer gas to fill the A/C system. Refer to the appropriate

shop manual for pressure specifications.

10. Use the model LD9-TG Leak Detector that is included with the

LD9-TGKIT to check the system for leaks. Refer to the operating

instructions for using the LD9-TG Leak Detector listed on page 4.

11. Sweep the probe tip slowly over the components, hoses, and metal

ttings that make up the A/C system.

NOTE: The hydrogen/nitrogen tracer gas mixture rises; it does not

sink like R134a or R1234yf refrigerant.

12. Discharge the tracer gas into the atmosphere after the system

leak(s) are located. Do Not recover the tracer gas into an A/C

recovery machine.

13. Charge the system with the appropriate R134a or R1234yf

refrigerant only after the leak(s) are repaired and the A/C system

retested with the tracer gas and LD9-TG Leak Detector.

Replacement Parts for LD9-TGKIT

Item Part Number

Tracer Gas 100 psi Regulator 12056

R134a Manual Service Coupler 18191A

R1234yf Manual Service Coupler 18123

8 ft. (2.4 m) Service Hose 33096

18 in. (46 cm) Carrying Case 12055

LD9-TG AND LD9-TGKIT OPERATIONS MANUAL

PAGE 14

Product Cleaning Instructions

Remove surface dust by wiping with a dry cloth.

Return for Repair Policy and Warranty Policy

Every effort has been made to provide reliable, superior quality products.

However, in the event your unit requires repair, call Robinair Technical

Services below for instructions.

Robinair warrants the LD9-TG Tracer Gas Leak Detector and

LD9-TGKIT to be free of defects in materials and workmanship for a

period of two years from the date of purchase. Robinair shall, at its

option, repair or replace, at no charge, such products which, under

normal conditions of use and service, prove to be defective in material

and/or workmanship. This warranty applies to all repairable units

that have not been tampered with or damaged through improper use

including unauthorized opening of the unit. Please ship freight-prepaid

the warranty unit(s) that require repair to the Service Center along with

proof of purchase, return address, phone number and/or email address.

Robinair shall not be liable for any incidental, consequential, special or

punitive damages arising from the sale or use of any products, whether

such claim is in contract or not. No attempt to alter, modify or amend

this warranty shall be effective unless authorized in writing by an ocer

of Robinair.

THIS WARRANTY IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES OR

REPRESENTATIONS, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING ANY

WARRANTY IMPLIED BY LAW, WHETHER FOR MERCHANTABILITY OR

FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR OTHERWISE AND SHALL BE

EFFECTIVE ONLY FOR THE PERIOD THAT THIS EXPRESS WARRANTY

IS EFFECTIVE. SOME STATES AND JURISDICTIONS DO NOT ALLOW

LIMITATIONS ON IMPLIED WARRANTIES, SO THE ABOVE LIMITATIONS

MAY NOT APPLY TO YOU.

Technical Services: 800-822-5561

655 Eisenhower Drive

Owatonna, MN 55060 USA

LD9-TG AND LD9-TGKIT OPERATIONS MANUAL

PAGE 15

655 Eisenhower Drive

Owatonna, MN 55060 USA

Technical Services: 1-800-822-5561

Fax: 1-866-259-1241

Customer Service: 1-800-533-6127

Fax: 1-800-322-2890

Robinair LD9-TGKIT Tracer Gas Leak Detector Service Kit

Product's Documents

LD9 Operating Instructions English

Specifications

Robinair LD9-TGKIT Questions and Answers