Beginning in the mid-2010s, automotive and light-duty vehicle air conditioning systems began transitioning from R-134a to R-1234yf refrigerant. By MY 2021, the transition was complete. While yf, as we call it in the industry, is more environmentally friendly than prior refrigerants, it has historically been exponentially more expensive than its predecessors. This cost differential has
Automotive air conditioning systems are self-contained structures which cool the cabin of a vehicle by changing the phase of refrigerant from gas to liquid and back again by applying and releasing pressure on it. The ability of refrigerant gas to change its physical properties as it is compressed and cooled is what makes the air
The next time you buy some refrigerant, be sure to check the expiration date on the can or cylinder. What? You can’t find one? That’s because refrigerant simply does not go bad or expire. As long as the cylinder or can is fully sealed (no leaks) and the valve is not open or broken, refrigerant
The era of R-1234yf environmentally friendly mobile air conditioning systems is upon us! FJC is proud to announce two brand new R-1234yf products to our line, enabling users to enjoy the benefits of a premium leak seal or leak detection product along with your refrigerant charge. Under ideal situations, an air conditioning system would not
At FJC dedication to quality and safety are paramount. In fact, only the best will do for our customers! It is for this reason all our refrigerants and refrigerant products are packaged in cans which utilize the most innovative quality- and safety technology—Sexton cans! ITW Sexton is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of two-piece
Introducing FJC’s cordless vacuum pump which is ideal for applications where access to power supply is an issue. The two-stage, offset rotary vane design provides powerful, quiet, high vacuum capability and ensures moisture removal, while the high pumping capacity reduces evacuation time. Its design improves ultimate vacuum and extraction rate, reduces the exhaust time of
Over the past thirty years environmental regulations have wholly directed the refrigerant industry. Regulations have controlled the use of refrigerants since they have tended to be substances which either depleted the ozone layer or contributed to global warming. Included in this oversight has been the phase-out of specific refrigerant classes and the phase-in of their
It’s the most wonderful time of the year….and no, we’re not talking about the twinkling lights and catching snowflakes on your tongue….this is the season when FJC debuts our new products for the upcoming year. And we’ve got a whole host of surprises for you in ‘22! The FJC Tool Tote #FJCTOOLBAG is a water
Beginning in the mid-2010s, automotive and light-duty vehicle air conditioning systems began transitioning from R-134a to R-1234yf refrigerant. By MY 2021, the transition was complete. While yf, as we call it in the industry, is more environmentally friendly than prior refrigerants, it has historically been exponentially more expensive than its predecessors. This cost differential has
The COVID-19 pandemic is an incomparable, once-in-a-lifetime global public health, societal and economic disruption. Since it was identified in 2019, over fifty key countries have declared a national emergency in response to the coronavirus. It has affected just about every person and every industry on the planet, and the repercussions are projected to have impact
FJC offers a wide range of high quality air conditioning tools to restore the performance of mobile A/C systems. Proper tools allows effective repair, discharge and maintenance of automotive air conditioners. Our product assortments are unmatched. Part #2663 includes an incredible collection of the most common R-134a valve cores and service port caps and
Car batteries generally last between three and six years. Which end of that range a battery’s life will fall depends largely upon how it is treated. Multiple discharge/recharge cycles shorten the battery life. Frequency of use and length of road trips, variations in weather/temperature , accessory usage, humidity, dew and corrosion all can affect this
As mentioned in an earlier article, beginning January 1st, 2022, the United States will implement the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act to cap and phase down the production and consumption of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) in the United States. This legislation will phase down the U.S. production and consumption of HFCs by 85% over the next
FJC’s Extreme Cold™ boosts the performance of your automotive air conditioning by lowering duct temperature by over 15%. See our case study here which confirms the efficacy of this claim. In addition to the “colder cold” coming into your cabin, you will also be conditioning the O-rings and rubber components of your system, helping to seal leaks
The automotive A/C aftermarket is a heavily regulated industry. For example, SNAP (Significant New Alternatives Policy) was established by the EPA under Section 612 of the Clean Air Act to identify and evaluate sustitues for ozone-depleting substances. SNAP also addressed issues such as technician training and certification mandates, refrigerant venting prohibition, equipment certification, record keeping
Over the past thirty years, the mobile air conditioning industry has experienced extensive changes. Until 1995, automotive A/Cs used refrigerant R-12. After 1995, the industry switched to R-134a. In 2015, we began transitioning to R-1234yf, but for the purpose of this article, we will focus on vehicles with model year 1995 and earlier. If you
A lot of factors must be considered when buying new merchandise to stock a retail establishment. The experts at FJC can help you successfully navigate these factors, but in the meantime here are some considerations to get you thinking strategically. Merchandising Strategy Generally speaking there are two contrasting Mechandising Strategies: whether to carry a large
New for 2022 is the FJC Booster-In-A-Bag. Our 25’ Commercial Duty booster cables enable easy charging even with less-than-ideal vehicle positioning. They boast quality clamps with strong teeth which will help prevent slippage from battery terminals, and plastic handles to protect against shock. The 2/0 gauge will carry enough amps to quickly charge any size
Before you service your automotive air conditioning system, you should look for the vehicle’s A/C safety sticker. Under your vehicle’s hood, you will locate a sticker which contains relevant details specific to the refrigerant requirements of your vehicle. The label indicates refrigerant type and amount as well as information about compressor lubricant. The location and
To keep your automotive A/C running well throughout the year, it’s important to be proactive. An annual inspection is recommended, ideally during the Fall or Spring seasons. Many use the change to or from Daylight Saving Time as an inspection reminder. Note: Always use extreme caution when under the hood with the engine running. Use
On December 27, 2020, the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act of 2020 was enacted as an unrelated postscript to the Stimulus & Relief bill for COVID. The AIM Act directed the EPA to address and reduce the use of HFCs (such as R-134a) in an effort to drastically cut climate-damaging greenhouse gases and finally
Easily and quickly measure automotive A/C temperatures from a safe and comfortable distance with FJC’s popular non-contact laser thermometer. Advanced infrared technology accurately measures surface temperatures (not for checking human internal body temperatures). Obtain dynamic readings by pulling the trigger, and simply release to lock results. Perfect for accurately checking vent or under hood temperatures
As the “heart” of the A/C system, the compressor performs a critical duty in the cooling of your vehicle. A compressor is a rotating pump which circulates refrigerant throughout the A/C system. Symptoms of a bad A/C compressor include: The A/C compressor won’t turn on, or stutters on and off The A/C is blowing warm
Before servicing a vehicle, confirm system refrigerant type. Cross contamination of refrigerants can cause damage to A/C system, service tools and equipment. Be sure to always use protective hand and eye wear. The right (red) side of the manifold is the high side and the red gauge is the high pressure gauge. The left (blue)
If you’ve ever shopped for DIY refrigerant products, you’ve undoubtedly read some product descriptions which sound similar— Refrigerant with ……”Stop Leak”, “Leak Stop”, “Leak Sealer”, “Leak Sealant”, “Conditioners”, “Kwik Seal”, “Quick Stop”, etc. Are these all the same? Are they different? Which is better? Which could harm your system? Inquiring minds want to know! In
FJC has been delighted by the incredible response from the DIY market for our all-in-one, no tools required, refrigerant products. These innovative devices feature an ease-of-use dispensing cap which makes charging an automotive A/C system simple and trouble-free. Our straight R-134a meets SAE J2776 and AHRI 700 purity standards and provides an inexpensive, trouble-free solution
For a mobile air-conditioning system to run efficiently, the correct amount of refrigerant must be installed in the system. Both an under– or over-charge will affect efficiency, and the latter could even damage the system. But how does one hit the proverbial “sweet spot” when charging? START BY KNOWING SYSTEM CAPACITY The type of refrigerant
We sometimes hear from customers wondering what type of refrigerant is in their air conditioning system. It’s important to correctly identify the refrigerant prior to a recharge because mixing refrigerants is not only illegal, but dangerous. As a general guideline, it’s good to know that cars manufactured prior to 1995 came with R-12, a refrigerant
At FJC we understand that all booster cables are not the same, but—then again—neither are all users. Learn about important considerations for this invaluable tool and always be sure to read all instructions and follow all safety rules before using. Length The length of the cables determines how close you need to be to another
Most cars will not engage the A/C compressor when there is an inadequate supply of oil in the system. You may prefer to have UV dye in your system before there is a leak so if your system fails to adequately cool, you can readily spot the leak. You might choose to add a performance
Everyone appreciates that regulations stemming from environmental concerns has been steering the direction of automotive A/C refrigerants for the past twenty-five years or so. In the 1990s we moved away from R-12, a CFC, in favor of R-134a, an HFC, to help mend the damage the former was doing to the Ozone Layer. Later, in
An automotive air conditioning system is a closed loop. As the refrigerant moves through the system it is subject to pressure variations which change the phase of the refrigerant from liquid to gas and back again. As these phase changes occur, the temperature also changes, heat is released, and “air conditioning is made”! Because of
R-1234yf absorbs slightly less energy per unit of flow in a refrigerant cycle compared to R-134a. In order to compensate for that differential, yf systems utilize an Internal Heat Exchanger (IHX). The IHX (sometimes called a Suction Line Heat Exchanger ( or SLHX )), helps to increase the performance level of yf systems to match
Portable Hydraulic Hose Crimping kits are ideal for repairing or creating new hose lines onsite. You’ve come to the right place—FJC’s offering in this category is extremely HIGH QUALITY and exceptionally LOW PRICE! Our lightweight and compact crimping kit is made of durable aluminum alloy and can reach up to 53 HRC, ensuring a thorough
All automotive air conditioning systems are self-contained structures which cool the cabin of a vehicle by changing the phase of refrigerant from gas to liquid and back again by applying and releasing pressure on it. The ability of refrigerant gas to change its physical properties as it is compressed and cooled is what makes the
When your air conditioning system has been open to the atmosphere for a period of time, it is susceptible to contamination by moisture or foreign particulate. It is important that the moisture be removed from the system, as it can be extremely harmful to the system components and to the A/C system operation. In addition,
Have you ever gotten into your car on a hot summer day, eager to cool off with MAX COOL A/C, only to find there is no air coming through your vents? (No cool air, no warm air….just literally NO air!) This issue isn’t one which can be diagnosed without further exploration. Components must be individually
A vacuum pump is a literal workhorse in aftermarket air conditioning. Once you’ve chosen and purchased the right pump, your goal should be to protect and maintain your investment. Because it removes moisture, acid and other contaminants from an A/C system, vacuum pump oil can become contaminated fairly quickly. Once the oil is compromised in
What is the difference between the various A/C compressor oils on the market, and do those differences really matter? As the EPA has introduced more environmentally-friendly regulations, the automotive industry has had to embrace more stringent vehicle engineering standards. This has affected the need for specific lubricants. We always recommend that you contact the manufacturer
FJC’s POLAR ICE™ Kwik Seal™ is different from all the other Leak Seal treatments on the market (and by “different from” we mean “BETTER THAN”). FJC’s Stop Leak Treatment is a 3 ounce miracle which contains special sealing additives which not only seals leaks in rubber components, like O-rings and hoses, but also repairs small
O-rings are small but vital donut-shaped gaskets in an automotive A/C system. They are seated in such a way as to create a leak-free area at each connection where the hard metal and soft O-ring meet. O-ring lubricants and conditioners extend the life of O-rings by creating a surface film which seals the o-ring and
A safety data sheet (SDS), (previously called a “material safety data sheet” (MSDS)), is a document which lists information relating to occupational safety and health for the use of various substances and products. Unlike the MSDS, the new SDS sheets follow an internationally standardized format. SDS sheets are a component of the Globally Harmonized System
So, you’ve determined your vehicle’s A/C needs a charge…..but the choices on the shelf seem confusing. Do you need a leak stop? Red or UV dye? A performance booster? Let our Interactive Refrigerant Finder help you determine the correct product for you. If the hyperlinks are active on your device, click through at the end
Over the years many people have noticed price volatility in the refrigerant market. Price fluctuations can make users feel concerned about whether they are getting fair pricing on their refrigerants, and wonder why the prices are not more stable. The reason can be answered with a simple sentence, “Refrigerant prices fluctuate because they are a
You may have heard of air conditioning performance boosters, but don’t know quite what they do, or if they are necessary. Well, we can’t speak about ALL performance boosters, but we CAN speak about FJC’s proprietary Extreme Cold™. WHAT DOES EXTREME COLD™ DO? FJC’s Extreme Cold™ boosts the performance of your automotive air conditioning by
So your AC is blowing warm, and you know you need a refrigerant charge, but how much should you buy? And considering that both too much and too little refrigerant will make the system not work properly, how much should you add to your system? That’s a loaded question. Most cars hold between 28 and
FJC’s Part # 2458 (8 oz) and 2459 (Quart) ZEROL HD46 is a polyalkylene glycol lubricant designed specifically for application with R-1234yf refrigerant in mobile air conditioning systems. The oil is a double end-capped PAG, and is manufactured to exacting standards of high efficiency. ZEROL HD46 is suitable for use in both belt- and electrically-driven
When an automotive A/C compressor failure occurs, debris from the failed unit can scatter throughout the system. These particles can clog up passages in the system and cause problems after you’ve replaced the failed compressor. Even tiny particles can cause big problems with the system. In fact, it takes less than 1/10th of a tsp
Service port caps are the primary seal for a vehicle’s A/C system’s service ports. Once again, FJC is on the forefront of the automotive air conditioning market by being one of the few providers of R-1234yf high and low side service port caps. We offer a variety of sizes, post lengths and provide each with
Ah, Spring! As the days get longer, moods elevate and people are ready to get out and enjoy the fresh air and awakening scenery. For many of us that includes car rides to and from our location, and increasingly in this Covid world, the ride sometimes becomes the destination. Before you head out on
Although the year is still relatively new, in terms of A/C systems needing aftermarket service, 2021 already represents a big change in the industry. Since R-134a was introduced in the mid-1990s, most of the needs in the automotive A/C industry revolved around servicing R-134a systems. Even though the industry has slowly transitioned to R-1234yf between
The quality of Weitron/FJC’s Made in USA refrigerants is unmatched. We perform in-house testing for purity, moisture, acidity and non-condensable gases, providing consistently exceptional results for our refrigerants . You can be confident our refrigerants meet or exceed AHRI 700 specifications. In fact, we guarantee it. The following tests are conducted on our refrigerants, and
Due to requirements under the 2015 SNAP program (section of the Clean Air Act), to reduce ozone-depleting substances and replace them with more environmentally sustainable alternatives, USA law required elimination of R-134a in all 2021 and later model year cars. Rules also affect Medium/Heavy Duty vehicles (includes Medium Duty trucks, 250-350or 2500-3500 pick-ups, and Heavy-Duty
A perfect refrigerant scale is durable, sturdy, highly accurate, and affordable, and FJC’s HD scale ticks all those boxes. It boasts a rugged, compact design, and is completely portable. Made of high quality aluminum and silicone, the non-slip grip on the 9-inch base will support refrigerant tanks with ease and prevents slippage during use. This
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 part of the system is connected by tubing or hoses which form a closed loop through which the refrigerant flows.
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 leak. While it can be a DIY repair, diagnosing and fixing an automotive A/C system that is not blowing cold air takes a multi-faceted approach. Begin with a visual inspection.
It’s a New Year—so out with the old and in with the NEW! Well, how about we keep some of the “old” and bring in some “cutting edge”? That’s more in keeping with the FJC tradition of being on the forefront of the automotive A/C aftermarket industry! Here are 21 exciting tips for 2021 from
Have you ever experienced a sweltering day where you started your vehicle, cranked the A/C and a few moments later realized it’s simply not generating cold air? It’s happened to most of us at one point or another. But what do you do about it? Live without A/C? Drive directly to your local shop or
Do you still have some old puncture-style refrigerant cans in the garage, but can no longer find puncture-style dispensing equipment? Is your local liquidator selling puncture-style cans for a fraction of the price of self-sealing? Does your business use a variety of refrigerant cans (R-12? R-134a? R-1234yf? Small cans? Tall cans? Oil Charges) but doesn’t
It’s good to know…. Air conditioning system doesn’t only cool the air, it also conditions it by drying and filtering it. Operating your vehicle’s A/C during colder months can prolong the life of your vehicle’s system and, even more importantly, can actually help keep you safer on the road by increasing driver visibility. Your vehicle’s
Refrigerant and DIY tools for Automotive A/C repair are readily available at any auto parts store. While this “ease of access” somewhat translates into “ease of use,” it is imperative to be aware at all times of the potential risks of working on an A/C system and to minimize those risks from the get-go. Be
So, 2020 is (finally!) in the rear view mirror and the year ahead is an open road, waiting to be travelled. We know you’ve got big plans for 2021….and if you keep up with these “Vehicle Resolutions” you can be sure your car will be there to take you for the ride. RESOLVE to make
Nitrogen is a dry, inert gas with multiple uses within the automotive A/C industry. Nitrogen flushing is the process by which unwanted gases and contaminants are eliminated from the A/C system using nitrogen gas instead of chemicals. The FJC Nitrogen Flush Kit was designed to purge lines with low-pressure nitrogen, displacing the oxygen in the
FJC carries PAG, POE, Zerol and mineral oils in a variety of viscosities to service every type of automotive air conditioning system. Choosing the correct lubricant for your Air Conditioning system can be confusing. We always recommend that you check your vehicle manual or contact the vehicle manufacturer to ensure that the correct lubricant is
O-rings, gaskets, sealing washers, caps, keyways, shims, fittings, valve cores, orifice tubes and other service items are the lifeblood of every A/C Service Technician. These are the small parts and pieces a tech reaches for over and over throughout the course of his day, and it is imperative he’s got the right parts for the
As always, 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 the changing needs of the automobile A/C industry. In this post we will
One thing we frequently hear from our customers is that a physical printed catalog really sets FJC apart from the competition. This physical, tangible resource becomes a permanent part of their business. They like having a copy or two on their sales counters and more in their shops to use for reference so they don’t
Pollution is the introduction of substances which cause adverse changes in the environment or living organisms. We’re all familiar with contaminated waterways, improper waste disposal, and noise and light pollution. We are going to focus on the role refrigerants play in air pollution—and steps the industry has taken to become more environmentally sustainable. Air is
As we head into the cold fall and winter months, FJC is offering exceptional deals, prices and terms on our Service Tools and Equipment, Engine Cooling Tools and Kits, Battery Testers, Tools, Inverters, Booster Cables , Retail Displays—AND MORE!! Below is a small preview of our materials for this promotion. Our reps have been busy
FJC is delighted to report that in response to overwhelming demand from the DIY market, we are introducing a new line of all-in-one, no tools required, R-134a plus additives. This innovative- product line features an ease-of-use dispensing cap which makes charging an automotive A/C system simple and trouble-free. In addition to 695DT, our straight R-134a
There’s a reason we call our #4400 Pro-Series Service Item Assortment the ULTIMATE Assortment for A/C Specialists, and that’s because this deluxe kit contains all your shop’s requirements of O-rings, gaskets, sealing washers, keyways, shims, fittings, caps, orifice tubes, etc. This premier assortment is packaged in a compartmented case which clearly identifies each part. All
At FJC we are monitoring a trend in the automotive air conditioning aftermarket towards the professional tech, as opposed to the DIYer. Some reasons for this change are: Complexity of newer vehicles and A/C systems Time Management—car owners don’t work on their cars as much has they had in the past Knowledge—manifold sets and vacuum
GUARANTEED COMMERCIAL SPECIFICATIONS MAIN APPLICATIONS R-134a is a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) which can be used for domestic, commercial and industrial refrigeration as well as air conditioning, fluid cooling, and heat pump applications. R-134a is the refrigerant of choice of many automotive and agricultural air conditioning system manufacturers. (lifetimesmilesbellevue.com) OILS POE (Polyolester) for stationary equipment PAG (polyalkylene
(1) Is it bad to run an automotive air conditioner when it’s cold out? Running the a/c in the winter months does not cause any harm to the car’s heating and cooling system. In fact, there are many benefits to running the car’s air conditioning in the winter: it helps dehumidify the air, reducing window fog
It’s easy to assume your automotive A/C is performing poorly due to a compressor failure, however, it’s quite possible the culprit might be your belt. It’s good practice to first check your entire drive system for wear and proper tenson before moving on to more difficult and more expensive solutions. Over time, automotive belts ,
If you have noticed a sudden change in your A/C output, you may have a leak in a metal component. These leaks can be caused by accidents or other damage, or corrosion from moisture in the system. (https://www.adarsus.com) These type of leaks require a permanent seal in the area of the leak, whether in
[pdf-embedder url=”https://fjcinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/Blog-AC-Pressure-Chart.pdf” title=”Blog – AC Pressure Chart”] LMK2020
As electric and hybrid vehicles continue to gain in popularity, we have been receiving an increasing number of inquiries regarding OEM requirements, safety precautions and general procedures regarding the A/C evacuation, recycling, and charging procedures on these vehicles. In 2020, in addition to knowing whether your vehicle’s A/C system uses R-12 refrigerant (pre-1996 model year
It’s a question we hear all the time at FJC. “Do I REALLY need to change my vacuum pump oil?” The answer is a resounding, “Yes—for the sake of your vacuum pump AND your system!” Vacuum pump oil is a special oil used to lubricate a vacuum pump. Because a vacuum pump removes moisture, acid
An inexpensive way to potentially increase the cooling properties of automotive A/C systems is through the addition of performance-boosting refrigerant additives. But, do they really work? Performance additives, like FJC’s Extreme Cold® circulate through the A/C system and increase the cooling capacity of the refrigerant by increasing the latent heat of the refrigerant and increasing
FJC Power Division offers an incredible line of radiator and cooling system pressure test and refill kits to help you find internal and external leaks in your cooling system and test radiator caps for proper operation. Today we will focus on our Deluxe, 28-piece Kit, but feel free to explore our full line here .
An A/C filter, or cabin air filter, is a simple but important element of a mobile A/C system. The filter helps maintain air quality within the vehicle cabin. It does this by removing contaminants such as dust, dirt, smoke, pollen, mold and bacteria as the air flows into the cabin. As is typical with filters,
No. No, it’s not. A properly functioning vehicle air conditioning system is absolutely crucial to maintaining a cool and comfortable interior cabin, especially during the heat of summer. That’s why when things start to go wrong, we are so impatient to get it back to peak performance. Unfortunately, the A/C is often a “forgotten system”
Under normal conditions you should never have to recharge you automotive A/C with refrigerant. The system is, after all, a closed loop through which the refrigerant flows ad infinitum. So what does it mean if your system starts blowing warm air? If the warming of your AC output has happened slowly over time, it is
When you’re in need of heavy-duty air conditioning products, tools, equipment and refrigerant, think FJC HD! FJC is committed to supporting and advancing the commercial vehicle industry. To that end, we carry an extensive inventory of A/C products, tools, equipment and refrigerant for the trucking industry to help drivers keep cool while the wheels of
Due to the high cost of R-1234yf refrigerant, FJC recommends checking for leaks in yf systems with a Nitrogen/Hydrogen gas electronic leak detection system. Using hydrogen/nitrogen as your tracer gas provides a significant cost savings over R-1234yf or helium while also providing heightened leak detection sensitivity over bubble testing methods. Charge the system with a
When a mobile A/C system needs to be repaired, the first step taken is usually to recover the refrigerant from the system for reuse later. An A/C vacuum pump is used to remove unwanted air and water vapor when it is under service. Moisture and air in the system can potentially damage the system. Air
Hot temperatures outside generally means cranking up your car’s A/C, but what if you do that and a rattling noise accompanies the cool flowing air? Hearing any sort of rattling noise from your car can cause stress and concern. A rattling sound can mean your A/C is starting to deteriorate and/or some of its parts
It may seem counter-intuitive to run your mobile A/C when the weather’s cool, or even freezing, however running the A/C in the winter not only does not do any harm to your heating/cooling system, it may in fact, offer benefits. Simply put, running the A/C and heater will dehumidify and remove moisture from the air.
LMK 2020
With automotive air conditioning, as with all automotive repairs, when you need repairs you generally have two costs: parts and labor. Generally the labor cost is a constant—either you do the repairs yourself, incurring no labor costs, or you hire a corner garage auto tech or dealership mechanic who provides an hourly labor rate.
For an A/C tech, a quality set of manifold gauges is an important diagnosis and service tool. We’ve referenced the issue of brass vs aluminum within the text of a previous blog, but since we’re still receiving questions about it, we’ve decided to dedicate an article exclusively to this question: What is the preferred material
At FJC we recognize that our customers may need a little help easing back into running their businesses after a couple months of lagging, or non-existent sales. Money is tight, people are spooked, and we certainly could all use a “break”. With this in mind, from May 15—July 3, 2020 we are offering our valued
When considering a purchase of booster cables, cable gauge, resistance, clamps, length and product cost are all important considerations. It is imperative to not sacrifice one quality for another. For example, choosing a long cable at the expense of sub-par clamps is counterproductive. At FJC, our best selling cable, 45255 provides the best balance of
A vehicle’s air conditioner keeps the cabin cool and comfortable on hot days. To do that effectively, it requires the correct level of refrigerant in the system. Since refrigerant is not “consumed” or used up in the normal process of cooling a vehicle, If a system is low on refrigerant it’s because there is a
During the current lock down, it may not be possible to bring your vehicle into a shop for maintenance/repair. However, if (like many of us) you find yourself with extra time on your hands, and can tackle simple maintenance like a needed oil change, replacing worn wiper blades, etc, this may be a great time
Is there water pooling inside or outside of your vehicle? While there are a few potential causes, the culprit may likely be an A/C water leak. A/C water leaks are very different from the A/C refrigerant leaks that we often speak about. Read further to learn what causes car A/C water leaks and what to
Wait one second! Stop right there! Unlike most components under your hood, an air conditioning system does not require a regular service or maintenance charging schedule. In fact, your vehicle’s A/C might NEVER need to be recharged unless you’ve been in a collision and damaged its metal components, or if its tiny rubber components have
Fogged up, “unclear” windows are not just an inconvenience, they present a “clear” driving danger. When the air temperature inside a vehicle is warmer than the temperature outside, the water molecules inside the cabin can go through a process of condensation and collect on the windshield and windows, where the dueling temperatures collide. This causes
I admit it. When I started working for FJC a couple years ago I questioned their printed catalog strategy. “We have the INTERNET nowadays,” I argued, “We don’t need to pay to design, print and mail out physical catalogs!” It became a personal mission to bring our digital presence up to date – so today
How lucky are we to be able to control the temperature inside of our vehicles’ cabins to help keep us comfortable and safe in all seasons and temperatures?!? Although it wasn’t always the case, in 2020 we’d be hard-pressed to find a vehicle which doesn’t include some type of cabin temperature control. However, different vehicles
With the COVID-19 global pandemic continuing to escalate, we wanted to share with you a brief summary of our response to this crisis. Along with the safety of our employees, customers and community our priority is to ensure that we continue to provide high-quality, uninterrupted service to support our customers and their businesses. FJC operates
A/C systems operate by utilizing a compressor which pressurizes and circulates refrigerant and oil through the system, producing cold air through refrigerant phase changes. The refrigerant starts out as a gas in the low-pressure side, and is converted into a liquid by the pressure in the high side. The cycle of refrigerant through the different
Spring is right around the corner, and right after that we’ll be hit with the stifling heat of summer. FJC’s distributors are already purchasing their refrigerant, tools and equipment for the upcoming season so they’re prepared. It’s equally important for drivers to be prepared in advance of summer as well. The heat, dust, and stop-and-go
We should all try to conserve fuel, whether for the environment or our pocketbooks—or both. It is with this notion in mind that we address an age-old question: Is it more fuel efficient to drive with the A/C running, or with the windows rolled down? We’ve all heard the arguments: “Opening the windows increases aerodynamic
In general, “Spark Free” tools are made of materials that do not contain iron and which utilize manufacturing processes which reduce the risk of a spark being created while the tool is in use . They protect against both fire and explosion in environments that may contain flammable liquids, vapors, dusts or residues. (cityoflightpublishing.com) When
It’s been 27 years since Lynn Parnell established FJC (short for Fruit Jar Chemist), creating A/C flushes in his NC garage. We’ve come a long way since then—we’ve expanded our product line, our staff, and our footprint— now filling two warehouses and offering streamlined logistics capacity to serve all of North America. We’ve also become
FJC receives daily requests from customers who want to buy our products for their personal use. However, because FJC does not directly sell to end users, we refer these potential buyers to our established and knowledgeable distributor partners. At FJC we believe in identifying, building and nurturing long term distributor partnerships with companies and individuals
Quite simply, yes! FJC has been providing quality air conditioning products, tools, equipment and refrigerants for over 25 years, and while we love to help DYIers save money, we would be negligent in our duty if we didn’t advise that there are certainly times an A/C tech is a preferred option. In most cases we
As part of his strategy against the Chinese “Made in China 2025” industrial policy, In July 2018 the Trump Administration placed $34 billion in tariffs on goods coming from China, prompting the Asian powerhouse to retaliate with an equal amount of tariffs on American imports. The rationale was to stop China from stealing Intellectual Property
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 are introducing premium telescopic inspection mirrors which allow you to visually inspect or access areas
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 or cutting of the O-ring during installation. Lubrication also helps to seat the O-ring properly
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, but in fact the valve merely provides access to the system and still requires the
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 minor component changes in the Thermal Expansion Valves (replace orifice tubes or expansion valves) and
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. FJC is first to market with Part # 2711—Nitrogen Flush Kit. This kit provides a
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, but not when discussing R-1234yf tools. That’s because our R-1234yf tools are patented with this
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 in advance so you are prepared when an emergency inevitably strikes (despite having taken your
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 winters past, vehicles needed to “warm up” in frigid temperatures to allow the correct mix
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 state of charge of your battery. This simple test can help reveal whether or not
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 customer service FJC has become known for. Alicia is leaving to pursue a position which
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 AAPEX, a trade-only event that is the penultimate International Exhibition for the Automotive Industry.. AAPEX is co-owned
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 or from Daylight Saving Time as an inspection reminder. Note: Always use extreme caution when
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 happens when a windshield, heated by the cabin heater, meets the cold outside air. Therefore,
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 in warm conditions. AMBIENT TEMPERATURE – Temperature of the surrounding air, or outside air temperature
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 reasons to NEVER use highly flammable refrigerants in your vehicle: They’re illegal under the EPA’s
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 (or about 2-3 12oz cans), however larger vehicles and those with rear A/C will likely
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 elastic. Some can withstand high temperatures and others are more tear-resistant. Because of their low
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. This process of metering modulates the flow according to the temperature of the refrigerant in
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 vapor and back to a liquid. Environmental aspects are increasingly being taken into consideration by
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 may include lubricant (oil), red or UV dye, stop leak, Extreme Cold, and extra wear
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FJC
101 Commercial Drive
Mooresville, NC 28115
FJC is a manufacturer and worldwide distributor of quality automotive air conditioning parts and service accessories.
