Automotive Air Conditioning Information Forum

High side blew, how much oil lost?

I figure it will be a guess so wondering what the experts on here would guess in this scenario.

The gauge fitting on the high side got loose and the high side blew all its high side refrigerant while the compressor was running. Interestingly the low side was still showing like 30psi.

What is a good estimate / good way to estimate how much oil was lost in that scenario. 50% of the oil in the system? 30%....70%???

I've seen the recommendation if replacing a part like the condenser put in X oz but in this scenario no component will be replaced. In this case its just the oil in/with the refrigerant that is lost. It made quite a mess in the engine bay.

Thanks,
Andy

I'm evacuating now for a re-charge. Luckily it looks like I shut it before any air got in and I'm already down to 300 microns so fingers crossed.

As you know it will be an estimate. A dual unit system, 3 ounces should do it.

Thanks Tim, 3 oz would be about 20% of the system total oil capacity which was about 15 oz.