As in years past, for 2020 FJC has integrated the ideas of the most forward-thinking people in our industry to create new products, and improve existing products, to better meet the changing needs of the automotive Air Conditioning industry. We
O-Ring Lubrication
You might have noticed that FJC offers O-ring Lubricant (Part #2206). You may have also read the description pf this convenient aerosol spray: Use FJC O-ring Lubricant to decrease the surface friction of the O-ring, helping to prevent abrasion, pinching
Service Port Caps—Small but Powerful
Although many techs know (or suspect) this, it may surprise DIYers to know that service port caps are THE primary seal for a vehicle’s A/C system’s service ports. Many erroneously believe the Schrader valve provides the seal for the ports,
Tech Talk – Differences between R-1234yf and R-134a
Component/Design Differences One of the compelling reasons R-1234yf was overwhelmingly chosen to replace R-134a in automotive air conditioning systems is because there are not really many differences between the way the systems are designed and work. There are a couple
The POWER of Nitrogen
Among the new and innovative products unveiled by FJC for 2020 is our highly-anticipated “Power of Nitrogen” line. Nitrogen provides a highly-effective, non-residual and inexpensive method of Flushing, Pressure Testing, and Detecting Leaks in both R-134a and R-1234yf A/C systems.
How Important is a Backflow Preventer for R-1234yf dispensing equipment?
You may have noticed that FJC uses the term “backflow preventer” when describing our refrigerant dispensing tools—can taps, U-charge hoses and Hoses with gauge. You may have also noticed that our competitors might use the term when discussing R-134a tools,
Build a Roadside Emergency Kit
Travel emergencies can happen at any time. Clearly there are steps we can all take to reduce the likelihood of a travel emergency, which will be covered in a future post. However this post contains advice about how to plan
FCT: Freezing Car Tips
Let’s face it, no one likes getting into a vehicle that’s frozen over, however many of us still use the “tips and tricks” of yesteryear to heat our vehicles despite the fact that these are no longer recommended today. In
FJC Battery Testers
Have you ever attempted to start your car only to find it’s not turning over? You think the battery is likely the issue but you’re never really sure. Fortunately, if you own an inexpensive battery tester you can check the
Saying Good-bye to an Invaluable FJC Employee
We sadly announce the resignation of Alicia Mills, who has worked with our company for the past twenty years. Alicia has been the friendly face and kind voice of our company to the public, providing that “Southern Charm” and old-fashioned
Should You Attend AAPEX 2019?
Attention all automotive tradespeople: For three days in early November the Sands Expo in Las Vegas, NV will once again open its doors to targeted vendors and buyers from around the world. From November 5-7. take some time to visit
A/C Inspection Checklist
The following checklist for inspecting an automotive A/C system has been developed from the recommendations of the Mobile Air Conditioning Society (MACS) An annual A/C inspection is recommended, ideally during the Fall or Spring seasons. Many use the change to
Why Do Windshields Fog Up (and How to Clear Them)?
Car windows fog up when the temperatures inside and outside the car are very different. In other words, in the summer it happens when a windshield, cooled by cabin A/C, meets hot outside air. In the winter, by contrast, it
AUTOMOTIVE A/C GLOSSARY
ABSOLUTE ZERO – The lowest theoretically possible temperature: complete absence of heat; believed to be -459.67°F (-273.15°C). AIR CONDITIONING – A system for controlling temperature, ventilation and humidity in a vehicle through condensation. Typically used to maintain a cool atmosphere
Should I Save Money and Use a Propane or Butane Refrigerant in My Auto A/C?
Short answer: No. Long answer: There is a reason FJC has never sold propane, ammonia, butane, or blends of them to use as refrigerants—because they are not safe. Propane , Butane, and Ammonia are highly flammable hydrocarbons. Here are several
How Much Refrigerant is the Right Amount to Add?
A question we hear often is, “How do I know how much refrigerant to add to my car’s A/C?” Stated simply, it depends. (1) It depends on the car. Most cars will hold between 28 and 32 ounces of refrigerant
HNBR O-rings
O-rings are common seals used in many industrial applications. There is a wide range of materials from which O-rings can be made, and that material affects the way a particular O-ring will function. Some materials are more durable, others more
Go With the Flow: A/C Expansion Valves and Orifice Tubes
Expansion Valves: The expansion valve is a complex valve which regulates refrigerant flow at the evaporator inlet with an internal moving rod mechanism. This rod opens and closes to differing heights based upon the cooling burden put upon the system.
Going Green: Environmental Impact of MVAC Refrigerants
Refrigerants are substances that are used in an A/C cycle to cool the car cabin. They are responsible for capturing heat and releasing it to another area by using the thermodynamic phenomena of phase changes wherein fluid continually changes into
Beyond “Straight Refrigerants” – R-134a with Additives
FJC offers a complete line of refrigerants for automotive applications. In sizes ranging from 3 oz to 22 oz, the FJC Signature Series offers premium R-134a refrigerant with a gamut of additives for the specific needs of your system. Additives
4 Common Automotive Air Conditioning Problems, and How to Fix Them
MUSTY OR DIRTY AIR COMES THROUGH DASHBOARD VENTS A musty odor, or dirty air coming through the dashboard A/C vents and into the cabin is likely caused by a dirty or moldy A/C evaporator drain hose. As a first line
Righty Tighty, Lefty Loosy? Not for R-1234yf!
“Righty, tighty Lefty loosy.” is a common axiom to help remember which direction tightens and which direction loosens a screw, nut, bolt, etc. To tighten, you must turn it to the right (clockwise). To loosen it, therefore, you turn it
Manifold Gauge Tutorial Guide
Before servicing a vehicle, confirm system refrigerant type. Cross contamination of refrigerants can cause damage to A/C system, service tools and equipment. GENERAL MANIFOLD INFORMATION: The right (red) side of the manifold is the high side and the red gauge
R-1234yf Market Information for 2020
Environmental Property Comparison In the wake of increased global environmental regulation, R-1234yf has been introduced to exceed both United States EPA and European F-Gas phase-out guidelines for high global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants. R-1234yf has become the industry standard refrigerant
Compressor Failure? Flush that System!
When an automotive A/C compressor failure occurs, it’s best practice to flush out the system before installing the new compressor. Many times when a compressor fails it sends small metal particles throughout the A/C system. These particles can clog up
Pressure Test a Radiator and Radiator Cap
As the coolant in your cooling system increases in temperature, the pressure in the system also increases. Normal operating temperature of a cooling system is around 220 degrees Fahrenheit, which is slightly higher than the boiling point of water. The
FJC’s Stop Leak Named “2019 TOP 10” A/C Leak Stopper
At FJC we know when we’ve got a good thing….but it’s not every day that an independent researcher validates that knowledge by choosing one of our products as a “Top 10” on the market for its category. But that’s exactly
Power Inverter Guide
A power inverter is a device that converts low-voltage Direct Current (DC) power to standard household Alternating Current (AC) power. The inverter does not produce any power on its own, rather it is provided by the DC source. An Inverter
Why Won’t My Old Dispensing Equipment Work on My New Refrigerant Cans?
If you haven’t had to recharge your automotive A/C in a while, you might be surprised to notice that your old can taps, hose and gauges, and other dispensing equipment don’t work on your new refrigerant can. No, this is
Quality Control Program: Refrigerants
Quality assurance: FJC’s is unmatched. In house testing provides consistently exceptional results for our refrigerants for purity, moisture, acidity and non-condensable gases. You can be confident our refrigerants meet or exceed AHRI 700 specifications. In fact, we guarantee it. Moisture
Find Your Low Side Service (Charging) Port
An automotive air conditioning system is a closed loop. As the refrigerant moves through the system it is subject to pressure variations. This pressure changes the phase of the refrigerant from liquid to gas and back again. As these phase
FJC Refrigerant Cans
Top quality refrigerants demand top quality cans! All FJC refrigerant cans are produced in the USA by the world’s leading manufacturer of two-piece steel containers. Our supplier focuses solely on automotive and industrial refrigerants, specialty chemicals, and both high-and low-pressure
FJC Introduces New Professional USB Rechargeable Work Light with UV Leak Detection
New for 2019 is FJC’s Multi-Function Work Light. This impact-resistant and waterproof gadget offers the latest in technology and convenience. Its COB (chip on board) technology means the LED chip is built directly into the circuit board eliminating the need
A Layman’s Guide to Automotive A/C
Automotive air conditioning is a self-contained system which cools the cabin of a car by changing the phase of refrigerant from gas to liquid and back again by applying and releasing pressure on it. Each of the parts of the
FJC Power Division
Did you know FJC is more than just Air Conditioning products? The FJC Power Division is an industry-leading manufacturer and distributor of power electronic products and systems for mobile markets including battery testers, chargers and maintainers, power inverters, booster cables,
Coolant? Refrigerant? What’s the Difference?
When you’re in the A/C business (like we are) the distinction between coolants (antifreeze) and refrigerants is abundantly clear. However, so many people ask us to distinguish between them that we’ve decided to set the record straight once and for
Understanding the Differences Between A/C Compressor Oils
Choosing the correct lubricant for your Air Conditioning system can be confusing. The move to more eco-friendly refrigerants and more stringent vehicle engineering standards has led to a number of regulations to manufacturer requirements for A/C compressor oils over the
10 Easy Ways to make your Car Smell Fresher
There are some car odors which are indicative of a mechanical issue that needs your attention. For example, a burned rubber smell may indicate that your brakes or clutch need attention, a burning oil smell may indicate an oil leak,
12 Ways to Keep Your Child COOL in the Car Seat
You never want your little one to be too hot! If your baby is overheating a number of things may happen. At the very least he will be uncomfortable, his sleep may suffer, and he may get heat rash, but
Tips for Charging Automotive Air Conditioners
Most people assume if their A/C is blowing warm that they are low on refrigerant. However, this is not always the case. Therefore, when charging A/C systems it is recommended to evacuate the system before adding refrigerant. This is because
Manifold Gauge Set Q & A
Manifold Gauge Set Q & A What is an A/C manifold gauge set? An A/C manifold gauge set is a service tool which enables techs to keep a close eye on the pressure in an air conditioning system and regulate
2019 New and Innovative Products for the Automotive Aftermarket Air Conditioning Market
FJC is on the forefront of many exciting innovations in the automotive aftermarket air conditioning market. We have integrated the ideas of the most forward-thinking people in our industry to create new products, and improve existing products, to better meet
Essential Things to Understand Before Buying Booster Cables
At FJC we understand that all booster cables are not the same. So don’t grab those cables from the bargain bin just yet! First be sure read this informative blog before making that well-intentioned impulse purchase. Learn about important considerations
Is There Value in Attending an Automotive Aftermarket Trade Show?
It’s tough to get away from the daily grind sometimes, but that doesn’t mean it’s not beneficial to our businesses or careers. We all know Trade Shows are great places to network and meet up with potential clients and vendors.
Mobile A/C Leak Detection and Repair
Diagnosing an automotive A/C system that is not blowing cold air takes a multi-faceted approach. One of the most common problems causing a mobile A/C to blow warm, especially after a long winter or period of non-use, is a refrigerant
Understanding California’s Proposition 65
In 1986, California voters approved an initiative to address their growing concerns about exposure to certain chemicals. That initiative became the Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986, better known as Proposition 65. Proposition 65 requires the