White Industries Diagnostic 1090AT User manual

OPERATIONS
and
MAINTENANCE
MANUAL
White®1090AT
diagnostic™
Refrigerant
Recovery/Recycle/Recharge
Unit
For Reference Only

For Reference Only

1090AT diagnostic™
User’s Manual
Table of Contents
Safety .................................................. 2
Introduction ........................................ 7
Refrigerant Gases ........................................ 8
Refrigerant Handling .......................... 8
Refrigerant Safety .............................. 8
Refrigerant Substitute Warning .......... 9
Refrigerant Oils ........................................ 9
Refrigerant Oil Safety ...................... 10
Functional Description .............................. 10
Front View ........................................ 10
Back View ........................................ 11
R-134a Accessories .......................... 11
Specifications ............................................ 12
General ............................................ 12
Operating .......................................... 12
Storage ............................................ 12
Installation and Operation ............ 12
Preparing and Installing Recover Tank ...... 12
Tank Preparation .................................. 13
Power Up .................................................. 13
Setup ........................................................ 14
Evacuating Recovery Tank .................. 15
Basic Sequence of Operation .............. 16
Operation .................................................. 16
Preliminary Checks .................................... 17
Connecting Service Hoses To Vehicle .... 17
Recover/Recycle Program ...................... 18
Recover w/Identifier Option .............. 18
Recover/Recycle .............................. 18
Purging Non-condensable Gas .............. 19
Evacuating A/C System .......................... 19
Vacuum Leak Check ........................ 20
Adding Lubricant and Dye to the
Vehicle A/C System .......................... 20
Charging A/C System ............................ 20
Sequential Modes of Operation .............. 21
Snapshot ................................................ 22
Tank Messages ................................ 23
Removing Recovery Tank ........................ 23
Recovering Service Hoses ...................... 23
Evacuating Contaminated Service Hoses 24
Adding Refrigerant to the
1090AT diagnostic™ Unit ...................... 24
Errors and Messages .............................. 24
1
Maintenance .................................. 25
Equipment Tips ................................ 25
Master Filter/Dryer .................................. 25
Changing the Master Filter/Dryer ...... 25
Resetting Master Filter/Dryer Monitor 26
Changing a Particle Filter ...................... 26
Check and Replace O-rings .............. 26
Maintaining the Vacuum Pump ................ 27
Checking Vacuum Pump Oil Level .... 27
Adding Oil to Vacuum Pump .............. 27
Changing Vacuum Pump Oil .............. 27
Changing Identifier Filter ............................ 28
Replacing Printer Paper ............................ 28
Storing the 1090AT diagnostic™ Unit ...... 28
Replacement Parts .................................... 28
Upgrade Kits ........................................ 28
Table of Illustrations
Figure 1: 1090AT diagnostic™
Front View .............................................. 10
Figure 2: 1090AT diagnostic™
Back View .............................................. 11
Figure 3: Vacuum Pump Fill Port ............ 11
Figure 4: R-134a Accessories ................ 11
Figure 5: Vacuum Pump Fill Cap ............ 27
Trademark Acknowledgements
White® is a registered trademark of
White Industries.
1090AT diagnostic™ is a trademark of
White Industries.
Copyright Information
1090AT diagnostic™ User’s Manual ©2002
White Industries.
All rights reserved.
The information, specifications and
illustrations in this manual are based on the
latest information available at the time of
printing.
White® reserves the right to make
changes at any time without notice.
For Reference Only

2
Safety Information
Safety Information
Safety Notice
For your safety, read this manual thoroughly
before operating your 1090AT diagnostic™
unit.
Your 1090AT diagnostic™ unit is intended
for use by properly trained, skilled
professional automotive technicians. The
safety messages presented below and
throughout this user's manual are reminders
to the operator to exercise care when using
this unit.
There are many variations in procedures,
techniques, tools, and parts for servicing
vehicles, as well as in the skill of the
individual doing the work. Because of the
vast number of test applications and
variations in the products that can be tested
with this instrument,
WHITE Industries
cannot possibly anticipate or provide advice
or safety messages to cover every situation.
It is the automotive technician’s
responsibility to be knowledgeable of the
system that is to be tested. It is essential to
use proper service methods and test
procedures and to perform tests in an
appropriate and acceptable manner that
does not endanger your safety, the safety of
others in the work area, or the vehicle or
equipment being tested.
It is assumed that the operator has a
thorough understanding of vehicle air
conditioning systems before using the
1090AT diagnostic™ unit. This
understanding of principles and operating
theories is necessary for competent, safe
and accurate use of this instrument.
Before using your
1090AT diagnostic™
unit, always refer to and follow safety
messages and applicable test procedures
provided by the manufacturer of the vehicle
or equipment being tested.
Read All Instructions
Read, understand and follow all safety
messages and instructions in this manual
and on the test equipment. Safety
messages in this section of the manual
contain a signal word with a three-part
message and, in some instances, an icon.
The signal word indicates the level of
hazard in a situation.
DANGER
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, will result in death or
serious injury to the operator or bystanders.
WARNING
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, could result in death
or serious injury to the operator or
bystanders.
CAUTION
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation
which, if not avoided, may result in
moderate or minor injury to the operator or
bystanders.
IMPORTANT
Indicates a situation which, if not avoided,
may result in damage to the equipment or
vehicle.
Safety messages in this section contain
three different type styles.
• Normal type states the hazard.
• Bold type states how to avoid the hazard.
•
Italic type states the possible
consequences of not avoiding the hazard.
An icon, when present, gives a graphical
description of the potential hazard.
For Reference Only

3
Safety Information
IMPORTANT SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING
Risk of a lack of oxygen.
•Vehicle exhaust gases contain carbon
monoxide.
•Refrigerant gas can displace air in work
area.
Use your 1090AT diagnostic™ unit in
locations with mechanical ventilation
providing at least four air changes per
hour.
Impairment of breathing can cause injury.
Power
WARNING
Risk of electric shock and fire.
• To avoid electric shock the power cord
protective grounding conductor must
be connected to a properly grounded
A.C. outlet.
• Use proper A.C. outlet for unit to
operate correctly. See unit ID plate on
back of unit. Extension cords are not
recommended. If an extension cord is
necessary, then use:
— 16 AWG for cords up to 50 feet
long, and
— 14 AWG for cords greater than 50
feet but less than 100 feet long.
• Connect power cord to properly
grounded outlet.
• Do not remove or bypass the
grounding pin.
• Do not use on wet surfaces or expose
to rain.
• Use only fuses with the rating
specified near the fuse holder.
Electric shock and fire can cause injury.
Refrigerant
WARNING
Risk of expelling refrigerant under pressure.
• Wear safety goggles and protective
gloves, user and bystander. Everyday
eyeglasses only have impact resistant
lenses, they are NOT safety glasses. If
any refrigerant gets into eyes, flush
with water and seek a doctor's aid
immediately, even though irritation
may cease.
• Do not remove master filter/dryer while
under pressure. Perform maintenance
procedure for removing master
filter/dryer, refer to
Changing the
Master Filter/Dryer .
• Prevent refrigerant from contacting the
skin.
Expelled refrigerant can cause injury.
WARNING
Risk of explosion.
• Do not use compressed shop air for
leak detection or to pressure test a
system containing refrigerant.
Refrigerant can form combustible
mixtures at pressures above
atmospheric and with air
concentrations greater than 60% by
volume.
• Do not heat a container of refrigerant
above 125°F (52°C).
Explosion can cause injury.
WARNING
Risk of fire.
• Do not use this equipment in the
vicinity of spilled or opened containers
of gasoline.
• Do not use your 1090AT diagnostic™
unit or leak detector equipment if R-12
substitutes are suspected. R-12
refrigerant substitutes may be
flammable.
Fire can cause injury.
For Reference Only

4
Safety Information
WARNING
Risk of poison.
• Avoid breathing air conditioning
refrigerant and lubricant vapor or mist.
• Do not allow refrigerant to contact
open flame or be drawn into a running
engine. This can cause refrigerant to
become poisonous phosgene gas.
• Use your 1090AT diagnostic™ unit to
remove refrigerant from air
conditioning systems.
Exposure can irritate eyes, nose and throat.
CAUTION
Risk of irritation to mucous membranes.
Avoid breathing A/C refrigerant and
lubricant vapor or mist. Exposure may
irritate eyes, nose and throat. To remove
HFC-134a from the A/C system, use
service equipment certified to meet the
requirements of SAE J2210 (HFC-134a
Recycling Equipment). Additional health
and safety information may be obtained
from refrigerant and lubricant
manufacturers.
Exposure can irritate eyes, nose and throat.
Oil (Lubricant)
WARNING
Risk of expelling oil under pressure.
Wear safety goggles and protective
gloves, user and bystander. Everyday
eyeglasses only have impact resistant
lenses, they are NOT safety glasses. If
any oil gets into eyes, flush with water
and seek a doctor's aid immediately,
even though irritation may cease.
Expelled oil can cause injury.
General
WARNING
Risk of tank overfill or rupture.
Do not connect TSD (Tank-full Shutdown
Device) to any equipment that is not
designed for use with TSD tanks.
Tank overfill or rupture can cause injury.
WARNING
Engine systems can malfunction expelling
fuel, oil vapors, hot steam, hot toxic exhaust
gases, acid, refrigerant and other debris.
• Wear safety goggles and protective
gloves, user and bystander. Everyday
eyeglasses only have impact resistant
lenses, they are NOT safety glasses.
• Service should be performed by a
certified A/C service technician.
Engine systems that malfunction can cause
injury.
WARNING
Engine compartment contains electrical
connections and hot or moving parts.
• Keep yourself, test leads, clothing and
other objects clear of electrical
connections and hot or moving engine
parts.
• Do not place test equipment or tools
on fenders or other places in the
engine compartment.
• Barriers are recommended to help
identify danger zones in test area.
• Prevent personnel from walking
through immediate test area.
Contact with electrical connections and hot
or moving parts can cause injury.
WARNING
Service hoses can not withstand high
temperatures or severe mechanical stress.
Keep the service hoses away from
moving or hot engine parts.
Service hoses can split or burst causing
injury.
For Reference Only

5
Safety Information
WARNING
Risk of explosion if improper tank is used.
Do not use any tank with this equipment
other than the one originally provided.
These tanks are D.O.T. certified for
refilling. D.O.T certified tanks are
marked "D.O.T. 4BA 350" or "D.O.T. 4BA
400".
Explosion can cause injury.
WARNING
Removing tubing assemblies may discharge
refrigerant.
Wear safety goggles and protective
gloves, user and bystander. Everyday
eyeglasses only have impact resistant
lenses, they are NOT safety glasses.
Refrigerant may cause injury.
WARNING
A test vehicle may move if not properly
prepared.
• Block the drive wheels before
performing a test with the engine
running. Unless instructed otherwise,
set the parking brake and put the gear
selector in neutral (manual
transmission) or park (automatic
transmission). If the vehicle has an
automatic parking brake release,
disconnect the release mechanism for
testing and reconnect when testing is
completed.
• Do not leave a running engine
unattended.
A moving vehicle can cause injury.
CAUTION
Risk of injury.
This equipment should be operated by
qualified personnel.
Operation of your 1090AT diagnostic™ unit
by anyone other than qualified personnel
may result in injury.
CAUTION
Risk of refrigerant leakage.
Always close the service valves and the
control panel valves before
disconnecting a hose coupling.
A loosened hose coupling can leak
refrigerant into the atmosphere.
CAUTION
Misdiagnosis may lead to incorrect or
improper repair and/or adjustment.
Do not rely on erratic, questionable, or
obviously erroneous test information or
results. If test information or results are
erratic, questionable, or obviously
erroneous, make sure that all
connections and data entry information
are correct and that the test procedure
was performed correctly. Refer also to
the
Maintenance and make repairs as
required. If test information or results
are still suspicious, do not use them for
diagnosis. Contact your WHITE®
Representative.
Improper repair and/or adjustment may
cause vehicle or equipment damage or
unsafe operation.
WARNING
Risk of explosion.
• Some vehicle fuel systems such as
Mercedes, light trucks, and some Fiat
models have the same service fittings
as the A/C systems.
• Do not connect to similar fuel service
fittings.
• Connect only to A/C service fittings.
If you mistakenly connect to fuel system:
• Do not use switches as this may cause
sparks.
• Do not move any metal items as this
may cause sparks.
• Unplug unit’s power cord from the wall
outlet.
• Immediately ventilate the work area
and call your local service
representative.
Fuel in A/C recovery unit can explode and
cause injury.
SAVE THESE
INSTRUCTIONS
For Reference Only

6
Safety Information
Using this Manual
This manual contains instructions for use
and setup of the 1090AT diagnostic™ unit.
A table of contents and table of illustrations
are provided to make this manual easy to
use.
Some of the information shown in text or
illustrations is obtained using optional
equipment. A White® Sales Representative
can determine option availability.
Conventions
This section contains a list of conventions
used in text.
Service Hose Couplers
References in text to opening and closing
the service hose couplers assume:
— Counterclockwise closes the valves, and
— Clockwise opens the valves.
Check Note
A check note provides additional information
about the subject in the preceding
paragraph.
Example:
✓✓
✓✓For additional information refer to
Connecting Service Hoses to
Vehicle .
Equipment Tips
Equipment tips provide information that
applies to specific equipment. Each tip is
introduced by this icon ❐for easy
identification.
Example :
❐Always oil the seals before connection
to any tank, filter or fitting. A leaky
connection or no-flow condition may
result if the seal is dry.
Equipment Damage
Situations arise during testing that could
damage the vehicle or the test equipment.
The word IMPORTANT signals these
situations.
Example :
IMPORTANT
Failure to follow these instructions could
damage unit.
Safety Messages
Safety messages are provided to help
prevent personal injury and equipment
damage. All safety messages are
introduced by a signal word indicating the
hazard level. The types of safety messages
are:
DANGER
Indicates an imminently hazardous
situation which, if not avoided, will result
in death or serious injury to the operator
or bystanders.
WARNING
Indicates a potentially hazardous
situation which, if not avoided, could
result in death or serious injury to the
operator or bystanders.
CAUTION
Indicates a potentially hazardous
situation which, if not avoided, may
result in moderate or minor injury to the
operator or bystanders.
Some safety messages also contain visual
symbols with signal words.
Example:
WARNING
Engine systems can malfunction expelling
fuel, oil vapors, hot steam, hot toxic exhaust
gases, acid, refrigerant and other debris.
Wear safety goggles and protective
gloves, user and bystander. Everyday
eyeglasses only have impact resistant
lenses, they are NOT safety glasses.
Engine systems that malfunction can cause
injury.
For Reference Only

7
Introduction
Terms
Use the following definitions as a foundation
to help understand your WHITE 1090AT
diagnostic™ unit processes and/or
components.
Virgin Tank
A refrigerant tank, disposable or refillable,
that contains new refrigerant. Disposable
virgin tank must be evacuated and cannot
be refilled. Dispose of evacuated tank in
accordance with local, state and federal
regulations that apply in your area. A
refillable virgin tank should be returned to
your supplier.
Recovery Tank
A refrigerant tank designed to store
refrigerant removed from a virgin tank or
recovered from a vehicle. On your
1090AT
diagnostic™ unit, refrigerant is filtered and
dried before reaching the recovery tank.
Once in the recovery tank, it is ready for
reuse.
Recycle
The process of removing refrigerant from a
system, filtering, drying and storing it in the
recovery tank.
✓✓
✓✓Recycle is the only process that
removes refrigerant. There is not a
separate recovery process.
Recover
The process of removing refrigerant from a
system to prevent release of refrigerant into
the atmosphere. On your 1090AT
diagnostic™ unit, this process also
recycles the refrigerant for reuse.
Evacuate
The process of drawing a vacuum on a
refrigerant system to remove air and
moisture. On your 1090AT diagnostic™
unit, this process is known as vacuum.
Charge
The process of filling an air conditioning
system with refrigerant.
Purging
The process of bleeding off non-
condensable gases from the recovery tank.
Introduction
Use your WHITE 1090AT diagnostic™ unit
to recover, recycle, evacuate and charge
refrigerant on automotive air conditioning
systems. Functions may be performed
automatically or manually.
When powered up, the 1090AT
diagnostic™ unit performs a self-test.
Your 1090AT diagnostic™ unit monitors
error conditions, and when an error is
encountered, displays an appropriate error
message.
Your 1090AT diagnostic™ unit is a single
pass design. This means recovered
refrigerant is filtered and dried before
entering the recovered tank. Refrigerant in
the tank is always ready for use. Refer to
Recovering Refrigerant From Vehicle. There
is no need to perform a separate recycle
function.
Your
1090AT diagnostic™ unit includes:
• A Full Graphic Display (240x64 pixel) and
8 buttons to control operation,
• The most popular fittings and adapters,
• Integral gauge set, automatic solenoid
valves and service hoses,
• A 50 pound capacity recovery tank to
ensure maximum refrigerant storage and
accurate charging capabilities, and
— Recovery tank is temperature-
monitored to maintain accurate
purging of non-condensable gases
(air) under all conditions.
• Master filter/dryer with automatic
replacement monitor,
• An oil drain bottle, and
• An oil injection bottle.
This manual applies to the following model:
Model # Refrigerant Type Voltage
EEAC720A R-134a 120 VAC
✓✓
✓✓WARRANTY IS VOID IF:
— Refrigerant other than R-134a
is recycled, or
— Refrigerant oil other than PAG,
ESTER or POE is recycled.
For Reference Only

8
Introduction
Refrigerant Gases
Halogens are any of the five elements
(fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine and
astatine) that form part of group 7a of the
Periodic Table of Elements. The fluorine
and chlorine elements of this family are
used to create a methane organic
compound used to form
dichlorodifluoromethane (CCL2F2), a
halogenated hydrocarbon called CFC-12
(chlorofluorocarbon 12). This refrigerant
gas is commonly known as Refrigerant-12,
or R-12, and has been used as a refrigerant
in mobile air conditioning systems for many
years.
The new refrigerant in the halogenated
hydrocarbon family, HFC-134a (CH2FCF3), or
R-134a, is now being incorporated in mobile
air conditioning systems. HFC stands for
hydrofluorocarbon.
The environmental impact of mobile air
conditioning refrigerant containing chlorine
(R-12) has caused regulatory action that will
eventually eliminate the use of such
products. Regulatory action is necessary
because when the chlorine content in R-12
is exposed to the atmosphere:
• It depletes the protective ozone layer in
the atmosphere
• It has relatively high global warming
potential, and
• Its long atmospheric lifetime is
approximately 120 years.
R-134a has been developed for new vehicle
production but does not replace or directly
substitute for R-12 in existing vehicles. R-
134a does not contain chlorine, does not
deplete the ozone layer in the atmosphere
and has an atmospheric lifetime of about
15.5 years.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and
state regulations specify that:
• Provisions be made to certify all air
conditioning service, installation and
repair personnel,
• Refrigerant be recovered, recycled or
reclaimed from automotive air
conditioning systems, instead of allowing
vapors to be expelled, or vented, into the
atmosphere, and
• Refrigerant should be recycled and
reused, or properly disposed of, instead
of allowing vapors to be expelled, or
vented, into the atmosphere.
Mobile air conditioning service, installation
and repair technicians must be qualified and
certified.
Refrigerant Handling
Mobile air conditioning systems contain
chemical mixtures that require special
handling to avoid injury and to avoid venting
refrigerant into the atmosphere.
Do not discharge any refrigerant gas, vapor
or liquid from a refrigeration system into the
atmosphere. If service is required that
involves opening the refrigerant system, use
a certified recovery system.
Refrigerant Safety
WARNING
• Wear safety goggles and protective
gloves, user and bystander. Everyday
eyeglasses only have impact resistant
lenses, they are NOT safety glasses.
If any refrigerant gets into eyes, flush
with water and seek a doctor's aid
immediately, even though irritation
may cease.
• Do not remove master filter/dryer while
under pressure. Follow instructions
for removing master filter/dryer. For
additional information refer to
Changing the Master Filter/Dryer .
• Prevent refrigerant from contacting the
skin.
• Read, understand and follow Safety
Information in the front of this manual.
For Reference Only

9
Introduction
WARNING
• Use your 1090AT diagnostic™ unit in
locations with mechanical ventilation
providing at least four air changes per
hour.
• Avoid breathing air conditioning
refrigerant and lubricant vapor or mist.
• Do not allow refrigerant to contact
open flame or be drawn into a running
engine. This can cause refrigerant to
become poisonous phosgene gas.
• Use your 1090AT diagnostic™ unit to
remove refrigerant from automotive air
conditioning systems only.
• Read, understand and follow Safety
Information in the front of this manual.
IMPORTANT
Tighten all tubing and hose connections
properly. Insufficient or excessive torque
can result in loose joints or deformed
parts. Either condition can result in
refrigerant leakage.
Refrigerant Substitute Warning
WARNING
• Do not use your 1090AT diagnostic™
unit or leak detector equipment if R-12
substitutes are suspected. R-12
refrigerant substitutes may be
flammable.
• Read, understand and follow Safety
Information in the front of this manual.
Aftermarket R-12 refrigerant substitutes are
being sold that are dangerous or potentially
flammable gases. These products contain a
blend of butane, isobutane and propane and
have the potential for explosion. Some of
these products are:
• OZ-12,
• Refrigerant-176,
• Arctic Chill R-176, and
• GHG Refrigerant 12.
Some vehicles using OZ-12 can be
identified by a label that may be placed in
the engine compartment, but many cannot
be identified. Studies are currently being
conducted to develop a procedure to identify
the type of refrigerant in a refrigerant
system. State agencies and the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are
moving to ban flammable substitutes.
If it is suspected that a refrigerant system
contains a product of this type:
• Question customers about previous
service,
• Be aware of any unfamiliar odor from the
system,
• Do not use any leak detector,
• Do not use recycling equipment, and
• Contact your state fire marshall or local
EPA office.
Refrigerant Oils
In mobile air conditioning units, the lubricant
needed for the compressor is blended with
the refrigerant. Mineral (petroleum) oils
were used with R-12 systems. Mineral oils
are not soluble in R-134a and the industry
had to substitute synthetic lubricating fluids
for the mineral oils. Polyalkylene glycol oils
(PAGs) were the first synthetics to meet the
auto A/C compressor manufacturers
performance criteria, and most automakers
and compressor manufacturers devised their
retrofit specifications with PAGs in mind.
Since then, polyol ester oils (ESTERS or
POEs) have been tested and also have
been found to meet the the performance
criteria. Although POEs have not been
approved by the automakers or A/C
compressor manufacturers, POEs are
frequently used in A/C retrofits in the
automotive aftermarket.
For Reference Only

10
Introduction
Refrigerant Oil Safety
WARNING
Risk of irritation of mucous membranes.
• Wear safety goggles and protective
gloves, user and bystander. Everyday
eyeglasses only have impact resistant
lenses, they are NOT safety glasses.
If any refrigerant gets into eyes, flush
with water and seek a doctor's aid
immediately, even though irritation
may cease.
• Avoid breathing A/C refrigerant and
lubricant vapor or mist. Exposure may
irritate eyes, nose and throat. To
remove HFC-134a from the A/C system,
use service equipment certified to
meet the requirements of SAE J2210
(HFC-134a Recycling Equipment).
Additional health and safety
information may be obtained from
refrigerant and lubricant
manufacturers.
Exposure can irritate eyes, nose and throat.
Functional Description
Front View
Figure 1: 1090AT diagnostic™ Front View
A — Integral Gauge Set
High and low pressure panel mounted
gauge set for monitoring vehicle A/C system
pressure.
B — Control Panel
Houses graphic display screen and control
buttons.
C — Graphic Display Screen
240 x 64 pixel screen.
D — Control Buttons
Eight buttons are used to enter information
and control the 1090AT diagnostic™
system operation.
E — Oil Drain Bottle (right side)
Used to measure the amount of recovered
oil.
F — Oil Injection Bottle with Button
(left side)
Used to inject oil back into the vehicle A/C
system.
G — Printer
H — Optional Identifier Filter
Used to protect the identifier from oil.
Replace when filter element turns red.
For Reference Only

11
Introduction
Back View
Figure 2: 1090AT diagnostic™ Back View
A — Power Switch
Turns power ON and OFF. Must be on ( I )
for unit operation.
B — Power Entry Module
C — Master Filter/Dryer
Consists of a 10 micron particulate filter and
desiccant to remove moisture. For
additional information refer to Changing the
Master Filter/Dryer.
D — Blue Temperature Probe (optional)
Red Temperature Probe (optional)
E — Refrigerant Identifier Incoming Oil
Separator with Drain Port (optional)
Removes oil and other contaminants from
the refrigerant being identified.
F — Serial Tag
G — Vacuum Pump Oil Level Sight Glass
Vacuum pump oil level should be in the
middle of the sight glass.
H — Vacuum Pump Oil Drain
I — Particle Filters (4)
Figure 3: Vacuum Pump Fill Port
Vacuum Pump Fill Port
Located inside the unit under the control
panel.
R-134a Accessories
Figure 4: R-134a Accessories
A — Service Hoses
Red and blue hoses with shut-off adapters
for your
1090AT diagnostic™ unit to
connect to the vehicle. For additional
information refer to
Connecting Service
Hoses to Vehicle.
B — Auto Shut-off Adapters (Couplers)
— Connects to high- and low-side service
ports of vehicle.
— Quick connect/disconnect valve
actuation without refrigerant venting.
Couplers contain manual shut-off hand
valves to control flow of refrigerant while
connected to service ports and prevent
blow-back while connecting/
disconnecting hoses.
C — Low-Side Adapter Fitting
Adapter, part number 1-15080, to connect
low-side service hose to a refrigerant tank
for adding refrigerant to the 1090AT
diagnostic™ unit, for new tank preparation
and for evacuating a tank prior to preparing.
For Reference Only

12
Installation and Operation
Specifications
General
Power
1090AT 120 VAC 1 PH 60 Hz
Shipping Weight
250 pounds
Dimensions
Depth 31”
Height 51.5”
Width 23”
Operating
Operating Temperature Range
50 to 120°F (10.0 to 48.8°C) ambient
Relative Humidity
Up to 80%, non-condensing
Compressor Pressure Range
15 inHg to 450 PSI
Maximum Operating Pressure
450 PSI
Single Refrigerant Charge Amount
0 to 15 lbs (4.999 kg)
Recovery Amount
0 to 45 lbs (20.41 kg) Maximum
Vacuum Pump
1.5 cfm Rotary Vane
Recovery Rate
1 pound/minute, Maximum
Storage
Temperature
-4 to 140°F (-20 to 60°C)
Relative Humidity
Up to 80%, non-condensing
Installation and Operation
Use this chapter to prepare your White
1090AT diagnostic™ unit for initial use and
perform routine recycling, evacuation and
charging procedures.
Install the hose wrap to the side of the unit
and the handle to the rear of the unit with
the hardware supplied in the accessory kit.
Preparing and Installing
Recovery Tank
The recovery tank is shipped with a dry air
charge. The charge must be vented and the
tank evacuated before use. Use the
following procedure to evacuate the dry air
from the recovery tank and install it in your
1090AT diagnostic™ unit.
WARNING
• Do not use any tank with this
equipment other than part number
EAA0253L62A. These tanks are D.O.T.
certified for refilling. D.O.T. certified
tanks are marked “D.O.T. 4BA 350” or
“D.O.T. 4BA 400”.
• Read, understand and follow
Safety
Information in the front of this manual.
IMPORTANT
Vent and evacuate the recovery tank
before first use. An unprepared tank can
cause compressor burnout.
✓✓
✓✓The recovery tank must have a
minimum of 25 inHg vacuum when
evacuation is complete. If there is
not 25 inHg vacuum, check
connections and repeat the
procedure.
For Reference Only

13
Installation and Operation
Tank Preparation
Follow this procedure to install a new
recovery tank in your 1090AT diagnostic™
unit. New recovery tanks are charged with
dry air which must be vented before using.
WARNING
• Wear safety goggles, user and
bystander. Everyday eyeglasses only
have impact resistant lenses, they are
NOT safety glasses.
• Cover the blue hand valve port with a
shop towel to help prevent debris from
becoming projectiles.
• Read, understand and follow
Safety
Information in the front of this manual.
1. Vent dry air by slowly opening blue hand
valve on the recovery tank.
2. Gently set the recovery tank in the
1090AT diagnostic™ cabinet with the
hand valves up, and the ports facing the
back of the unit.
3. Connect the float probe electrical
connector to the recovery tank.
4. Place the shorter pair of Velcro® straps
securely around the recovery tank.
✓✓
✓✓Use only the 50 pound capacity
recovery tank supplied with your
1090AT diagnostic™ unit or one
indicated by the warning label on
the back of the unit. Using any
other type or capacity tank could
create the danger of explosion and
potential for personal injury.
Power Up
Refer to this section to understand the
power up sequence of the 1090AT
diagnostic™ unit.
1. Connect the power cord to the proper
wall outlet with the correct voltage for the
unit. For additional information refer to
Specifications.
2. Turn power switch ON.
3. The 1090AT diagnostic™ unit will:
— initialize, and
— go to main menu screen.
✓✓
✓✓In the unlikely event the LCD
screen is unreadable upon power
up, adjust LCD contrast. Refer to
Adjusting LCD Contrast .
For Reference Only

14
Installation and Operation
Setup
After pressing setup, LCD will briefly display
all software revisions and then display the
setup topics.
Filter Reset
Use the procedure in this section to show
the master filter/dryer usage time and to
reset the filter timer.
1. Power up the 1090AT diagnostic™ unit.
2. Press the UP/DOWN arrows until SETUP
MENU is highlighted.
3. Press ENTER.
4. Position >next to FILTER and press
ENTER.
Master filter/dryer usage timer will
appear.
5. Press Yto reset filter timer to zero. (The
filter times out at 20 hours recovery time.)
Press Nto exit.
Adjusting LCD Contrast
Use the procedure in this section to adjust
the contrast on the LCD screen.
Unreadable Display
1. Shut OFF unit.
2. Hold the UP and DOWN arrows while
turning the unit ON and then release
arrows.
— The unit will automatically cycle
through the contrast range.
3. Press Nto set the contrast when the
screen is acceptable.
Readable Display
1. Power up the
1090AT diagnostic™ unit.
The Main Menu default setting is
RECOVER.
2. Press the UP/DOWN arrows until SETUP
MENU is highlighted.
3. Press ENTER.
4. Position >next to LCD CONTRAST and
press ENTER.
The
1090AT diagnostic™ will
automatically cycle through the contrast
range.
5. Press Nto set the contrast when the
screen is acceptable.
Adjusting Altitude
Use the procedure in this section to adjust
the altitude reading. Altitude MUST be
adjusted to the local altitude level for proper
digital vacuum readings and identifier
operation and calibration.
1. Power up the 1090AT diagnostic™ unit.
2. Press the UP/DOWN arrows until SETUP
MENU is highlighted.
3. Press ENTER.
4. Position >next to ALTITUDE and press
ENTER.
5. Press UP/DOWN arrows to adjust to your
local altitude.
6. Press Nto save/exit.
Adjusting Time and Date
Use the procedure in this section to adjust
the time and date readout on the LCD
display.
1. Power up the
1090AT diagnostic™ unit.
2. Press the UP/DOWN arrows until SETUP
MENU is highlighted.
3. Press ENTER.
4. Position >next to CLOCK and press
ENTER.
5. Press the LEFT/RIGHT arrows to select.
Press the UP/DOWN arrows to change.
6. Press Nto save/exit.
Adjusting Default Units
Use the procedure in this section to change
the unit of measurement for refrigerant
weight or temperature.
1. Power up the 1090AT diagnostic™ unit.
2. Press the UP/DOWN arrows until SETUP
MENU is highlighted.
3. Press ENTER.
4. Position >next to UNITS and press
ENTER.
For Reference Only

15
Installation and Operation
5. Press the UP/DOWN arrows to select
measurement.
Press the LEFT/RIGHT arrows to select
unit.
6. Press Nto save/exit.
Report Title Setup
Use the procedure in this section to setup
the report title with the shop name, address,
and phone number.
1. Power up the 1090AT diagnostic™ unit.
2. Press the UP/DOWN arrows until SETUP
MENU is highlighted.
3. Press ENTER.
4. Position >next to REPORT TITLE and
press ENTER.
5. Follow onscreen prompts to add
information.
Charge Total
Use the procedure in this section to obtain
total charge amount information.
1. Power up the 1090AT diagnostic™ unit.
2. Press the UP/DOWN arrows until SETUP
MENU is highlighted.
3. Press ENTER.
4. Position >next to CHARGE TOTAL and
press ENTER.
5. Total refrigerant charge amount since the
last reset displays.
— Follow onscreen prompts to change
units of measure.
6. Press Yto reset charge total to zero.
7. Press Nto exit.
Tank Setup
PERFORM THIS PROCEDURE AFTER
EVACUATING RECOVERY TANK as
explained in the next section.
Use the procedure in this section to finish
preparing a new recovery tank before
adding a sufficient amount of refrigerant for
a charge operation.
✓✓
✓✓The recovery tank must be fully
evacuated to perform this function,
refer to Tank Preparation.
— Recovery and virgin tank hoses
must be installed.
— Virgin tank must be installed
with valve down.
— All tank valves must be open.
1. Power up the 1090AT diagnostic™ unit.
2. Press the UP/DOWN arrows until SETUP
MENU is highlighted.
3. Press ENTER.
4. Position >next to TANK SETUP and
press ENTER.
5. Follow onscreen prompts.
6. Press Yto continue.
Press Nto exit.
✓✓
✓✓The
1090AT diagnostic™ unit will
transfer a sufficient amount of
refrigerant to the recovery tank to
allow charging from the virgin tank
only. There must be approximately
12 lbs of refrigerant in the recovery
tank before charging is allowed
from the recovery tank.
Evacuating Recovery Tank
1. Connect tank adapter, part number
1-15080, to liquid port of recovery tank.
2. Connect the blue hose, from low-side
service coupler to the installed tank
adapter.
3. Open the following:
— Liquid recovery tank valve, and
— Blue service hose coupler (CW).
4. Connect the power cord to the proper
wall outlet with the correct voltage for the
unit. For additional information refer to
Power Up and Specifications.
5. Turn power switch ON. The following
screens will display:
— AT Diagnostic welcome screen, and
— Main Menu screen.
✓✓
✓✓In the unlikely event the LCD
screen is unreadable upon power
up, adjust LCD contrast. Refer to
Adjusting LCD Contrast .
6. Select VACUUM and press ENTER.
For Reference Only

16
Installation and Operation
7. Use UP/DOWN arrow buttons to adjust
time to desired value.
8. Monitor the low-side panel gauge until a
minimum of 25 inHg of vacuum is
reached.
9. Close the following:
— Liquid recovery tank valve, and
— Blue service hose coupler (CCW).
— Highlight QUIT and press ENTER.
10. Remove the blue service hose from the
tank. Remove the tank adapter 1-15080.
11. Identify the short, yellow hose with the
Schrader® valve depressor leading from
the bottom of the unit. Connect the hose
end to the tank purge port.
12. Identify the blue hose marked TANK
VAPOR leading from the bottom of the
unit. Connect the hose end with the anti-
blowback valve to the vapor tank port.
13. Open the vapor recovery tank valve.
14. Identify the red hose marked TANK
LIQUID leading from the bottom of the
unit. Connect the hose end with the anti-
blowback valve to the liquid tank port.
15. Open the liquid recovery tank valve.
16. Connect the yellow hose marked VIRGIN
to the virgin tank port and open tank
valve.
17. Install the virgin tank to the rear of the
recovery tank with valve down to charge
liquid refrigerant.
18. Place the longer pair of
Velcro® straps
securely around the virgin tank.
19. Follow Tank Setup instructions in SETUP
to add nominal amount of refrigerant to
prepared tank.
Basic Sequence of Operation
1. Identify Refrigerant.
— Optional identifier accessory
(mandatory with identifier installed).
2. Check vehicle vent temperature.
— Optional temperature probe
accessory.
3. Display before service snapshot.
4. Printout before service snapshot.
— Optional printer accessory.
5. Recover vehicle A/C refrigerant.
6. Record and drain refrigerant oil.
7. Repair vehicle A/C system.
8. Evacuate vehicle A/C system.
9. Add refrigerant oil to vehicle A/C system
as required.
10. Recharge vehicle A/C system.
11. Display after service snapshot.
12. Printout after service snapshot
— Optional printer accessory.
Operation
This section contains:
— Procedures for connecting the service
hoses to the vehicle, and
— Procedures to:
• Recover vehicle refrigerant,
• Create a vacuum in the A/C system
before recharging, and
• Recharge the A/C system with
recycled refrigerant.
After performing all of the installation
procedures, follow these recommended
vehicle service procedures when using your
1090AT diagnostic™ unit for A/C work.
WARNING
Keep the service hoses away from
moving or hot engine parts. The service
hoses can not withstand high
temperatures or severe mechanical
stress.
IMPORTANT
• Close the tank valves when not using
your
1090AT diagnostic™ unit.
Leaving tank valves open may result in
refrigerant loss from tank.
For Reference Only

17
Installation and Operation
• Do not use your 1090AT diagnostic™
unit outside of the following limits:
— Warmer than 120°F (49°C),
— Colder than 50°F (10°C), and/or
— Relative humidity greater than 80%.
• Stabilize your 1090AT diagnostic™ unit
to a moderate temperature and inspect
for abnormalities.
• Contact your White® representative
before operating if unsure of
condition.
• Operating your 1090AT diagnostic™
unit with the following conditions may
reduce its functionality:
— Visible evidence of damage,
— Has been subjected to prolonged
storage under unfavorable
conditions, or
— Has been subjected to severe
transportation stresses.
Preliminary Checks
Successful use of your 1090AT
diagnostic™ unit depends on several
external factors. The following information
explains these.
Precondition Vehicle
The refrigerant in the vehicle A/C system is
recovered faster and more completely when
the components are warm.
✓✓
✓✓
White Industries highly
recommends identifying refrigerant
prior to connecting service hoses
to a vehicle A/C system.
1. Connect the service hoses to the vehicle,
refer to Connecting Service Hoses to
Vehicle .
To efficiently recover refrigerant, the vehicle
should be at normal operating temperature.
Run the engine until normal operating
temperature is reached, with:
— The A/C system OFF, and
— The hood lowered as much as possible
with out damaging or crimping the
service hoses.
2. Turn off the engine when normal
operating temperature is reached. The
unit and vehicle are ready to recover and
recycle refrigerant.
Allow Adequate Evacuation Time
Evacuate the vehicle A/C system for a
minimum of 30 minutes. This helps ensure
vehicle A/C system is free of non-
condensable gases (mostly air) and
moisture.
✓✓
✓✓Sometimes a small amount of
refrigerant is left in the vehicle A/C
system that is not practical to
recover. If recovery time is too
short or if vehicle components are
cold, this parasitic refrigerant can
expand during a vacuum hold cycle
or a leak test, and falsely report a
leak condition that does not exist.
Follow Vehicle Manufacturer’s A/C Service
Procedures
✓✓
✓✓It is the responsibility of the
technician to be familiar with
vehicle manufacturer
recommended service procedures.
Connecting Service
Hoses to Vehicle
Follow this procedure to connect the service
hoses to the vehicle.
✓✓
✓✓
White Industries highly
recommends identifying refrigerant
prior to connecting service hoses
to a vehicle A/C system.
✓✓
✓✓If the identifier option is installed, it
will be necessary to identify the
refrigerant to be recovered from
the vehicle A/C system before
connecting the service hoses to
the vehicle.
✓✓
✓✓Be sure the vehicle is at normal
operating temperature before
recovering refrigerant.
1. Connect the red, high-side service hose
from the 1090AT diagnostic™ unit to the
high-side service port on the vehicle.
2. Connect the blue, low-side service hose
from the 1090AT diagnostic™ unit to the
low-side port on the vehicle.
✓✓
✓✓If the vehicle has more than one
low-side service port, use the
service port closest to the
evaporator.
For Reference Only

18
Installation and Operation
3. Open the service hose couplers.
— Refer to the vehicle manufacturer’s
service manual for proper diagnostic
procedures and specifications.
If desired, a before service snapshot can
be taken now and printed if the optional
printer accessory is installed.
Recover/Recycle Program
Use this procedure to:
— Recover refrigerant from vehicle,
— Recycle, and
— Store the refrigerant in the recovery
tank for later use.
✓✓
✓✓
White Industries highly
recommends identifying refrigerant
prior to connecting service hoses
to a vehicle A/C system.
✓✓
✓✓If the identifier option is installed, it
will be necessary to identify the
refrigerant to be recovered from
the vehicle A/C system before
connecting the service hoses to
the vehicle.
✓✓
✓✓Be sure the vehicle is at normal
operating temperature before
recovering refrigerant.
Recover w/Identifier Option
✓✓
✓✓Before a recovery operation can be
started, a successful refrigerant
identification must be done.
A refrigerant identification can be completed
by pressing the RECOVERY or the ID
button.
1. Power up the
1090AT diagnostic™ unit.
2. Press the RECOVERY or the ID button.
3. Have identifier sample hose disconnected
from vehicle.
4. Press ENTER to calibrate identifier.
5. When calibration is complete, connect
identifier sample hose to low-side port on
vehicle A/C system.
6. Press ENTER to identify refrigerant.
7. If refrigerant is successfully identified as
R-134a, the recovery process can be
initiated.
Recover/Recycle
1. Open the liquid and vapor recovery tank
valves.
✓✓
✓✓Empty the oil drain bottle (right
bottle) after each recovery.
2. Power up the 1090AT diagnostic™ unit.
✓✓
✓✓If the identifier option is installed, it
will be necessary to successfully
identify the refrigerant in the
vehicle as R-134a prior to initiating
a recovery operation. Refer to
Recover w/Identifier Option .
3. Connect the service hoses to the vehicle
and open service hose couplers. For
additional information refer to Connecting
Service Hoses to Vehicle .
✓✓
✓✓If the printer option is installed,
before and after snapshots can be
printed. Before snapshots must be
setup before a recovery.
4. Check to make sure both panel gauges
show pressure, then select RECOVER
and press ENTER to begin recovery.
Refrigerant flows from the vehicle,
through your
1090AT diagnostic™ unit,
and into the recovery tank.
✓✓
✓✓During recovery, the display will
show the amount recovered.
— Units of measure will default to
last units used for charging.
Refer to Adjusting Default
Units .
✓✓
✓✓The vehicle gauges may drop
immediately, if not, they will begin
dropping within approximately 30
seconds.
For Reference Only