1. Product Overview
The AUTOOL LM160 AC Manifold Gauge Set is a comprehensive digital tool designed for accurate measurement of temperature, pressure, and vacuum in refrigerant systems. It supports 95 types of refrigerants and offers various operational modes including evacuation, refrigeration, and pressure leak testing. This kit is suitable for a wide range of applications, from automotive to industrial refrigeration systems.
Image: The AUTOOL LM160 digital manifold gauge set, including the main unit, pipe clamp thermometers, refrigerant hoses, and a carrying case.
2. What's in the Box
Your AUTOOL LM160 package includes the following components:
- 1x Digital Gauge Manifold Unit
- 2x Pipe Clamp Thermometers
- 1x Set of 3 Refrigerant Hoses (Red, Yellow, Blue)
- 2x Seal Fittings (High and Low Pressure Adapters)
- 1x Durable Carrying Suitcase
- 1x User Manual
Image: All components of the AUTOOL LM160 kit laid out, including the digital gauge, hoses, temperature clamps, and carrying case.
3. Setup and Connections
Before operating the AUTOOL LM160, ensure all connections are secure and correct.
- Connect Temperature Probes: Insert the two pipe clamp thermometer probes into the designated ports on the top of the digital manifold unit. Securely attach the clamps to the refrigerant lines (e.g., suction and liquid lines) to measure pipe temperatures.
- Connect Refrigerant Hoses:
- Connect the blue hose to the low-pressure (LP) side of the system and the blue port on the manifold.
- Connect the red hose to the high-pressure (HP) side of the system and the red port on the manifold.
- Connect the yellow hose to the service port (e.g., vacuum pump or refrigerant tank) and the central port on the manifold.
- Power On: Press the power button to turn on the digital manifold gauge.
Video: This video demonstrates the connection of the clamp temperature probes and refrigerant lines to the AUTOOL LM160 digital manifold gauge, showing the initial setup process for AC system diagnostics.
4. Operating Modes
The AUTOOL LM160 offers three primary operating modes for comprehensive AC system analysis.
4.1. Vacuuming Mode
This mode is used to remove external gases and moisture from the refrigeration circuit, ensuring a clean system before refrigerant charging.
- Connect the yellow hose to a vacuum pump.
- Select "Evacuation" mode on the LM160.
- Open the low-pressure valve on the manifold.
- Activate the vacuum pump. The screen will display evacuation time, current pressure, water evaporation temperature, ambient temperature, and temperature difference.
- Monitor the vacuum level until the desired vacuum is achieved.
Image: The AUTOOL LM160 display showing the "Evacuation" mode interface, with real-time data for hold time, current pressure, water evaporation temperature, ambient temperature, and temperature difference.
4.2. Refrigeration Mode
In this mode, the gauge measures the pressure and temperature of the refrigeration system in real-time, allowing for accurate charging and performance assessment.
- Ensure the system is properly evacuated.
- Connect the yellow hose to the refrigerant tank.
- Select the desired refrigerant type from the built-in database (supports 95 refrigerants).
- Turn on the AC system of the vehicle/equipment.
- Open the LP and HP valves on the manifold to allow refrigerant flow.
- Monitor the LP (low pressure), HP (high pressure), Ev (evaporation temperature), Co (condensation temperature), T1 (evaporation temp. of measured pipe), T2 (condensation temp. of measured pipe), SH (superheating evaporation temp.), and SC (subcooling condensation temp.) readings on the display. The sight glass allows direct observation of refrigerant charge flow.
Image: The AUTOOL LM160 display showing the "Refrigeration" mode interface, providing real-time pressure and temperature data for various points in the AC system.
Image: A comprehensive list of 95 refrigerants supported by the AUTOOL LM160, including common types like R134a, R22, R410A, and R1234yf.
4.3. Leakage Detection
This function helps determine if refrigerant is leaking by calculating the pressure difference over time.
- Ensure the system is charged to the appropriate pressure.
- Select "Pressure Leak Test" mode on the LM160.
- The device will record an initial pressure ("Start P").
- Monitor the "Current P" and "Delta P" (pressure difference) over a set period. A significant "Delta P" indicates a leak.
Image: The AUTOOL LM160 display showing the "Pressure Leak Test" mode interface, displaying start pressure, current pressure, and the calculated pressure difference over time.
5. Key Features and Functions
- Multiple Units and Pressure Ranges: Supports various pressure measurement units (psi / kPa / MPa / bar / kg/cm²) and vacuum measurement units (Micron / hPa / mbar / mTorr / Torr). Temperature units include °F / °C.
- 2.8-inch Backlit Display: Provides clear visibility of readings in various lighting conditions.
- Ergonomic Design: Features two large curved silicone carrying handles for comfortable handheld operation and a foldable hook for convenient hanging.
- Refrigerant Viewing Window: A sight glass allows direct observation of the refrigerant charge flow.
- Multi-language Support: Supports 8 languages including English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Japanese, and Chinese.
Image: The AUTOOL LM160 display showing the various units and pressure ranges supported for temperature, vacuum, and pressure measurements.
Image: Close-up views highlighting the 2.8-inch backlit display, silicone handles, foldable hook, and refrigerant visible window of the AUTOOL LM160.
Image: The AUTOOL LM160 display showing the language selection menu, indicating support for English, French, Italian, Spanish, German, Portuguese, Chinese, and Japanese.
6. Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 15 x 13 x 5 inches |
| Item Weight | 9 Pounds |
| Model Number | LM160 |
| Brand | AUTOOL |
| Material | Glass (for sight glass) |
| Pressure Measurement Units | psi / kPa / MPa / bar / kg/cm² |
| Vacuum Measurement Units | Micron / hPa / mbar / mTorr / Torr |
| Temperature Units | °F / °C |
| Number of Supported Refrigerants | 95 |
| Display | Backlit display |
7. Maintenance
Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and accuracy of your AUTOOL LM160 Digital Manifold Kit.
- Cleaning: Wipe the unit and accessories with a soft, dry cloth after each use. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Storage: Store the kit in its original carrying case in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Hose Inspection: Regularly inspect refrigerant hoses for cracks, leaks, or damage. Replace them if any wear is observed.
- Battery Care: If the unit uses replaceable batteries, remove them during long periods of non-use to prevent leakage.
- Calibration: For professional use, periodic calibration by a qualified technician is recommended to maintain measurement accuracy.
8. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your AUTOOL LM160, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Unit does not power on | Low or dead batteries; power button issue. | Replace batteries. Ensure power button is pressed firmly. |
| Inaccurate readings | Loose connections; sensor malfunction; need for calibration. | Check all hose and probe connections. Ensure probes are clean and properly attached. Consider professional calibration if issues persist. |
| Screen frozen or unresponsive | Software glitch; low battery. | Restart the unit. Replace batteries. If problem persists, contact customer support. |
| "Delta P" in leak test is high | Refrigerant leak in the system or connections. | Inspect all connections, hoses, and system components for leaks. Use a leak detector if necessary. |
For further assistance, please refer to the contact information in the Warranty and Support section.
9. Warranty and Support
AUTOOL provides a three-year warranty for the LM160 AC Manifold Gauge Set. If the product has any defect, AUTOOL will provide a new replacement or solutions to ensure customer satisfaction without delay. Lifetime technical support is also provided.
For any needs or technical assistance, you are warmly welcomed to contact AUTOOL customer support. They aim to respond within 24 hours.
Contact Information: Please refer to the contact details provided in your product packaging or visit the official AUTOOL website for the most up-to-date support information.
