yellow jacket 37880, 37887, 37888, 37889, 37881 Operation Manual

99 Washington Street
Melrose, MA 02176

Phone [phone]
Toll Free 1-800-517-8431

Visit us at www.TestEquipmentDepot.com

®

YELLOW JACKET

Automatic Refrigerant Recovery/Recycling/Recharge System

37880 Series

Operation Manual

37880/37881/37882/37887/37888/37889

Inhalation of high concentration of refrigerant
vapors is harmful and may cause heart irregu­larities, unconsciousness, or death. Deliberate
inhalation of refrigerants is extremely danger­ous. Death can occur without warning. Vapors
reduce oxygen available for breathing and are
heavier than air. Decomposition products are
hazardous. Liquid contact can cause frostbite.
All refrigerant containers, equipment, and
hoses are under pressure.

37880 Series Refrigerant Management System

Specifications

Refrigerants: All Models: R-134a

Compressor: 2-1/2 HP Hermetic Compressors
Power Source: 120V AC 60Hz for US Models 230V AC 50Hz for CE Models
Amperage: RLA: 8.5 RLA:

FLA: 11.0 FLA:
LRA: 30.0 LRA: 19.0

Before operating this unit, please read this man­ual thoroughly. You must understand the proce­dures outlined in this manual. Failure to follow
these procedures could void all warranties.

Before handling refrigerants, read the material
safety data sheet (MSDS) from the refrigerant
manufacturer.

Size: 37880
Height:
Width: 19.5 inches
Depth: 29 inches
Weight: Maximum is deluxe unit at 225 lb. with tank

45 inches

Table of Contents

Section Page Section Page

Specifications 2 OPTION 6: Tank Refill 10

Safety Instructions 3 OPTION 7: Refrigerant Management System 11

Component Diagram 4 Purging Non-Condensable Gases 12

Control Panel Overview 5 Maintenance Reminders 12

Setup/Check List/User Options 6

Option 1: Recovery Only 6 Troubleshooting Information 14

OPTION 2: Vacuum 7 Common Problems 14

OPTION 3: Charge Only 8 LCD Error Messages 15

OPTION 4: Full Cycle 9 Repair Parts List 16

Filter change/compressor oil/vacuum oil

13

OPTION 5: Oil Inject 10 Warranty Information 16

2

General Safety Instructions

Know your equipment. Read and understand the opera-

tion manual and labels affixed to the unit. Learn it’s appli­cation and limitations as well as the specific potential haz­ards of your equipment.

ALWAYS WEAR SAFETY GOGGLES.

Ground all equipment. This unit is equipped with an ap-

proved 3 prong grounding-type plug. The green ground
wire should never be connected to a live terminal.

Use the Proper Extension Cords. Use the following
guide for choosing the proper extension cord:

Wire Maximum Length

18 Ga. - 10 feet 16 Ga. - 25 feet
14 Ga. - 50 feet 12 Ga. - 100 feet

Avoid Dangerous Environments. Do not use this unit in
damp locations or expose it to rain. This equipment should
be used in a location with mechanical ventilation that pro­vides at least four air changes per hour. This equipment
should not be used near open containers of flammable
liquids.

Disconnect Unit from Power Supply Before Servicing.
An electrical shock hazard is present when the unit is dis­assembled or the cowling is removed.

Repair Damaged Parts. Do not operate the unit with a
defective part. Repair unit to proper operating conditions.

Use Recommended Accessories. Follow the instruc­tions that accompany all accessories. Improper use of ac­cessories may damage equipment or create a hazard.

 Avoid breathing high concentrations of vapors.

 Use with sufficient ventilation to keep operator expo-

sure below recommended limits, especially in en­closed and low lying areas.

 Avoid contact of liquid refrigerant with the eyes and

prolonged skin exposure.

 Wear goggles and protective gloves.

 Do not attempt to operate this unit above 120°F ambi-

ent temperature.

 Do not allow refrigerants to contact open flame. Re-

frigerant decomposition in a flame results in phosgene
gas. Breathing phosgene gas can be fatal.

FIRST AID: If high concentrations of refrigerant are in­haled, immediately remove the victim to fresh air. Call a
physician or emergency medical technician. Keep calm. If
not breathing, give artificial respiration. If breathing is diffi­cult, give oxygen. Do not give epinephrine or similar
drugs.

 EYE: In case of liquid contact, immediately flush eyes

with plenty of water. Call a physician.

 SKIN: Flush with water. Treat for frostbite, if neces-

sary, by gently warming the effected area.

CAUTION! All refrigerant hoses, recovery tanks, refriger­ant lines, the 37880, and other vessels containing refriger
ants should be handled as if under high pressure.

CAUTION! Should be operated by certified personnel.

-

Use Caution When Connecting or Disconnecting. Im­proper usage may result in refrigerant burns (frostbite). If
a major refrigerant leak occurs, proceed immediately to a
well ventilated area. The hoses included with this unit are
supplied with couplers that, when closed, prevent refriger­ant vapors from venting when disconnecting from the
automobile.

Only Use the 37880 with the Correct Refrigerants.
The 37880 Series is only approved for R-134a

Operate the Unit within the Design Environment. The
37880 was designed to operate in a temperature range
from 40°F to 120°F. The unit should also not be operated
in a wet location.

WARNING! Refrigerant, in liquid and vapor form, is a po­tentially hazardous material. Please consult the manufac­turer’s Material Safety Data Sheet for additional informa­tion and adhere to the following safety guidelines:

CAUTION! 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 J2788. Additional health and safety information may
be obtained from refrigerant and lubricant manufacturers.

CAUTION! Do not pressure test or leak test HFC-134a
service equipment and/or vehicle air conditioning systems
with compressed air. Some mixtures of air and HFC-134a
have been shown to be combustible at elevated pres­sures. These mixtures, if ignited, may cause injury or
property damage. Additional health and safety information
may be obtained from refrigerant and lubricant manufac­turers.

3

Component Location and Description

1. Touch Pad (Control Panel)

2. High Gauge

3. Low Gauge

4. Auto High Side Hose (Red)

5. Auto Low Side Hose (Blue)

6. Tank Vapor Hose (Red)

7. Tank Liquid Hose (Blue)

8. Oil Drain Bottle

3.

9.

9. Oil Inject Bottle (excluded on 37887 and

37888)

10. Tool Tray

11. Main Power Switch

12. Storage Tank

13. Vacuum Pump

10.

2.

1.

11.

5.

8.

4.

14.

13.

6.

7.

12.

4

Control Panel Features

LCD Display

The Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) display provides the
unit operator with continual updates of the status of the

37880. In addition, the display will prompt the techni­cian for the user input needed to continue operation.
The LCD shows error codes for rapid diagnosis of ab­normal conditions.

The display is divided into five fields which aid the tech­nician in rapidly reading information.

1. Weight - Shows the weight of refrigerant being
processed in each mode.

Time (MINS) - Shows the time set for Vacuum.

2.
Timer will count down to display the time left.

Purge– Located in the b

3.
play. A “Y” in this field indicates non­gases su
The unit will
is turned on
cates non-condensable gases are below the set
limit. An “E” indicates the unit purged for fifteen
seconds an
sent. This is a safety feature which pr
purging when a malfunction occurs somewhere i
the system. See the Purging Non-Condensable
Gas section

4. Option - Displays the Option number of the current
operation.

5.

Status Line - Displays programming commands
and informs the user of current status of the unit.

Available Functions

The main menu allows you to access the following
functions.

1. Option 1 - Recover, is used to recover and recycle
refrigerant fr
Option is most often used prior to o
system to atmosphere to replace a system comp
nent.

ch as air are present in the

purge automatically next time the un
when the “Y” is displayed. An “N” indi-

d non-condensable gases are still pre-

for further details.

om an automobile A/C

ottom right corner of dis-

condensable
storage tank.

events excess

system. This
pening an

A/C

it

(15)

n

o-

to verify the
certain length of time.

3. Option 3 - Charge Only, adds refrigerant to an A/C
sy

stem

Option 4 - Full Cycle, performs a complete recov-

4.
ery, recycling, evacuating and charging of an aut
mobile A/C system

Option 5 - Oil injection,

5.
Automobile’s A/C system. (37887 and 37888)
Hybrid Hose
before using

Option 6 - Tank Refill, i

6.
ant to the storage tank.

7. Option

from the veh

8. Option 8 - Refrigerant Managemen
the technician access t
ant use to da

9. Option

time and date, Scale calibration and
mation.

Function Ke

The Function Keys are used to enter data into the sys­tem in a variety of modes.

UP ARROW– This key allows you to scroll up
through the menu

Down ARROW– This key allows you to scroll down
through the menu

Left ARROW - This key allows you scroll left
through the menu

Right ARROW - This key allows you to scroll right

through the menu

Numeric Key pad– these keys are used to select
desired time and weight and entering the filter
codes.

START- Press START to begin a selected operational

mode.

ENTER– Press ENTER to enter the
setting

RESET- Press RESET to cancel the current operation.
The RESET may have to be pushed more than once to
return to “Main Menu”

A/C system will hold a vacuum for a

.

.

is used to inject oil into

Flush, is used to clear the hoses of
the unit on

7– Vehicle Oil Flush, is used to flush the

icles A/C system.

te.

9– Set-up, is used to access settings

ys / Numeric keypad

a hybrid A/C system.

s used to add new refriger-

t System, gi

o information about refriger-

like

system infor-

desired function or

o-

the

oil

oil

ves

Option 2 - Vacuum, is used to vacuum air/moisture

2.
from a system previously opened to the atmos­phere. This
A/C system.

Option will then proceed to recharge

This Option also allows

the technician

the

5

Initial Setup

To ensure quick, successful integration of the 37880
into your shop, please follow these set-up procedures
before the first use of the unit.

Step 1: FILL VACUUM PUMP WITH OIL

Remove thumbscrews located under

1.
pump shelf.
Rotate the front of the vacuum pump

2.
the oil fill port.
Remove the fill cap located on top of

3.
pump.

4.

Using a funnel, insert oil to the oil level line usin
the provided YELLOW J
Replace the oil fill cap.

5.
Rotate the vacuum pump back into

6.
position and

replace the

ACKET vacuum pump oil.

thumbscrews.

the vacuum

out to expose

the vacuum

g

its original

Open blue tank valve and allow nitr

2.

ogen in tank to

vent.

3.

Reconnect blue tank ho
Attach the tank refill ad

4.
R-134a virgin cylinder. WARNI

se.

apter (Part No. 19153) to the

NG: DO NOT OVER-

TIGHTEN THE TANK REFILL ADAPTER.

5.

Plug unit into

6.

Turn on the main power switch.

7.

Select TANK REFIL from the main menu

8.

Follow the us

a grounded 110V outlet.

er prompts to complete the tank refill

process.

9.

When the display reads “SUPPLY TANK EMPT
disconnect blue
Remove the tank refill adapter from empty R-13

10.

hose.

virgin cylinder and place it in the tool tray located on
top of the unit.

Y”

4a

Step 2: FILL SOU

RCE TANK WITH REFRIGERANT

(also see page 11)

Disconnect blue tank ho

1.

se from tank.

RECOVER

The Recovery Option should be used to fully recovery and
recycle all refrigerant from an air conditioning system. For
instance, if the system needs to be opened to atmosphere
to replace a part, all refrigerant must be removed before
opening the system.

RECOVER Operational Steps

1. Verify the automobile air conditioning system is
off.

2. Select RECOVER for recovery operations. The
LCD should read “CONNECT SERVICE HOSES

TO VEHICLE ENTER TO CONTINUE.”

NOTE: If desired, the gauges of the 37880 SERIES
can now be used to aid investigation of an A/C system
problem. Ensure the automobile A/C system is turned
off prior to selecting a mode on the machine.

3. Connect the high and low side auto service hoses
to the respective high and low side service ports
on the automobile A/C system. Open the service
hose valves.

4. Press START to begin recovery operations.

WARNING: DO NOT RECOVER CONTAMINATED
REFRIGERANT WITH THIS UNIT. RECOVERING
CONTAMINATED REFRIGERANT WILL VOID ALL
WARRANTIES AND MAY CAUSE DAMAGE TO OTHER
AUTOMOBILES SERVICED IN THE FUTURE.

During the recovery operation, refrigerant is removed from
both the high and low side of the automobile air condition­ing system. The LCD will display the amount of refrigerant

being recovered and the status line will read

“RECOVERING REFRIGERANT.”

Note: If “RECOVERY HOLD” Option is selected The

unit will stop at 6” of mercury and hold for five min as re­quired by EPA Per SAE J2211. If the pressure rises to 0
psi the compressor will restart and the unit will pull down
to the required 6” of mercury and hold for two minutes.
The unit will repeat this process until the system pressure
remains stable at vacuum for two minutes or until it fails
this process five times. If the process fails five times the
status line will read “LEAK CHECK FAILED.” This may
mean that the automobile A/C system has a gross leak
and it will not hold a vacuum.

If this occurs take the appropriate steps to locate the leak
and properly repair it.

If the “RECOVERY HOLD” option is not selected the unit
will shut off at the required level of vacuum and the opera­tor must insure that the EPA standard (SAE J2211) is met.

After the system turns off, the unit will beep to alert the
technician the job is complete. The oil removed from the
auto will drain into the oil drain bottle on the side of the
unit. Because a small amount of gas will be released as
the oil drains, a small hissing sound may come from the
bottle.

Always inspect hoses, o-rings, and fittings for damage be­fore using equipment. Replace worn or damaged compo­nents. Failure to insure that hoses, o-rings and fittings are
in working order can increase a build-up of NCG’s in the
recovered refrigerant.

6

RECOVER, cont.

Use only new lubricant to replace the amount removed
during the recycling process. Discard used lubricant per
applicable federal, state and local requirements.

5. Verify the message on the LCD reads “RECOVERY

COMPLETE.”

Press the RESET key.

6.

“CHECK OI

Measure the oil in the oil drain bottle.

7.
recovered oil in a proper

Close the service valves and disconn

8.
and low side
automobile.

Models w
37881/37888

The unit will display “IDENTIFY REFRIGERANT ?” To
make your selection use the left or right arrow keys to
toggle from YES to NO. Press the ENTER key to make
your selection and then press the Start key to start the
process. If YES is selected the unit will begin the refrig­erant identification process.

L LEVELS.”

auto service hoses from

ith the optional refrigerant identifier

The LCD should read

Dispose of

manner.

ect the high
the

If the refrigerant does not pass the identification proc­ess (98% purity) the unit will display the error message
“ CONTAMINATED” and the screen will show the
results of the identification. Press the Reset key and
follow the instructions on the screen and the unit will
clear itself automatically. Repeat the identification proc­ess to insure the proper identification of the refrigerant
purity level.

If the unit fails the second time follow the on screen in­structions and take the appropriate steps to remove the
contaminated refrigerant with a separate unit for
removal of contaminated refrigerant.

WARNING: DO NOT RECOVER CONTAMINATED
REFRIGERANT WITH THIS UNIT. RECOVERING
CONTAMINATED REFRIGERANT WILL VOID ALL
WARRANTIES AND MY CAUSE DAMAGE TO
OTHER AUTOMOBILES THAT YOU SERVICE IN
THE FUTURE.

VACUUM

The vacuum function of the 37880 SERIES is designed
to remove air/moisture from the automobile A/C system
by pulling a deep vacuum. This mode is most often
used after completing a repair that required opening
the A/C system to the atmosphere. Moisture in an A/C
system can cause erratic operation and must be re­moved before recharging the system with refrigerant.

VACUUM Operational Steps

NOTE: If desired, the gauges of the 880 SERIES
can now be used to aid investigation of an A/C sys­tem problem. Ensure the automobile A/C system is
turned off prior to selecting a mode on the ma­chine.

1.

Verify the auto air conditioning system

Select Vacuum option from the main

2.

Press the ENTER key.

3.

4.

When the LCD reads “SET VACUUM TIME,”
the vacuum
the desired time is shown. press ENTER to accept
the vacuum

time by using the numeric keypad until

time shown on the LCD. Bypass vac-

is off.

menu.

set

uum time by setting time to zero (FULL CYCLE
MODE only). Note: We recommend 10-15 mini-
mum vacuum time to ensure proper charging.

5.

When the LCD reads
TIME,” set the vacuum
meric keypad until the de
press ENTER to accept the vacuum hold time
shown on the LCD. Vacuum hold time can be by­passed if th

The display will now read “INJECT

6.
VACUUM” YES or NO Press the lef
to select YE

7.

The LCD will read “CONNECT HOSES PRE

ENTER T

Connect the high and low side auto

8.
to the respe
the automobile A/C system. Open the service hose
valves.

Press the START key to begin the vacuum opera-

9.
tion.

e time is set

S or NO.

O CONTINUE”

ctive high and low side

“SET VACUUM HOLD

hold time by using the nu-

sired time is shown.

to zero.

OIL AFTER

t or right arro

service hoses

service ports on

ws

SS

7

VACUUM cont.

Note: If the automobile A/C system has pressure on it,

the unit will automatically begin a recovery cycle to in­sure that no refrigerant is released into the atmosphere.

10.

The 37880 SERIES will begin to evacuate the
system and will beep to i
uum time.

11.

Record the vacuum level shown on
press START to begin th
hold time will count down on the LCD and the unit
will beep at the end of the hold time.

12. Record the final vacuum level shown on the LCD If
the two recorded vacuum levels are different, th
A/C system may have a leak and might not retain
refrigerant when charged.

ndicate the end of the vac-

the LCD and

e vacuum hold time. The

A/C

e

CHARGE

The Charge Only function is designed to add a precise
amount of refrigerant when the A/C system is low on
refrigerant. This mode is most often used when the A/C
system is working but does not produce sufficiently cold
air. Note: THE A/C SYSTEM MUST BE IN A VACUUM

BEFORE THE CHARGING PROCESS.

MODE 3 Operational Steps:

NOTE: If desired, the gauges of the 37880 can now
be used to aid investigation of an A/C system prob­lem. Ensure the automobile A/C system is turned
off prior to selecting a mode on the 37880.

1.

Verify the auto air conditioning system

Select CHARGE option from the main

2.

is off.

menu.

13. The unit will prompt you to “INJECT OIL NOW”
press and hold the START key until the desired
amount of oil is in

Verify the message on the LCD reads “VACUU

14.

COMPLETE.”

Press the RESET key to return to the main menu

15.

Shut the service valves and disconnect the high

16.
low side aut

Model 37889

See page 9 for instructions that will outline how to use
this feature.

7.

Press START key to begin charging
The display
The 37880 Series will t

The LCD will display the
The unit will beep when the desired charge amount has
been transferred to the A/C system.

Note: The last 3 oz. of refrigerant charge will be me­tered in by the charging solenoid. It is normal to hear a
clicking sound while charging.

8.

Verify the message on the LCD reads
COMPLETE.” Press the
will force a h
valves and disconnect t
service hoses from the auto.

with integrated micron gauge (Only) -

jected into the A/C system.

o service ho

will read “STABILIZING PLEASE WA

ose clearing routine. Close the servic

ses from the automobile.

operations.

hen start the charge cycl

charging process progress.

“CHARGE

RESET key and the

he high and low side aut

Unit

M

.

and

IT”

e.

e

o

When the LCD reads “SET CHARGE AMOUNT

3.
set the amount of refrig
A/C system by using the numeric keypad until the
desired amount is shown. press ENTER to set the
charge amount on the L
units from pounds and o
press the S
confirm the charge amount. Press t
to confirm.

The LCD will read “CONNECT SERVICE HOSE

4.

TO THE VEHICLE ENT

the ENTER key

5.

Connect the high and low side auto
to the respe
the automobile A/C system. Open the service hose
valves.

The LCD should read “PUSH START.”

6.

TART key. The unit will

.

ctive high and low side

erant to be charged into t

CD. NOTE:

unces, ounces or kilogram

ER TO CONTINUE”

To change

then ask you to

he ENTER ke

service hoses

service ports on

,”

he

S

. Press

Press the ENTER key to return to the main me

9.

Low Side Charge

The system default setting is high-side charging. To
charge low-side, follow these steps:

s

1. Turn the unit off.

y

Press and hold number 3 key down on the nu-

2.
meric key keypad and turn the unit

When the display reads “low side charge,” releas

3.
the charge key.

4. Enter the charge amount.

Note: when the unit is tu
high-side charge.

8

rned off it will default back to

on.

nu

e

FULL CYCLE

The Full Cycle function of the 37880 is designed to re­move and recycle all refrigerant in an A/C system by
transferring the refrigerant to the storage tank, remove
moisture in the system by pulling a vacuum, and charg­ing the system with a precise amount of refrigerant.

MODE 4 Operational Steps

NOTE: If desired, the gauges of the 37880 can now
be used to aid investigation of an A/C system prob­lem. Ensure the automobile A/C system is turned
off prior to selecting a mode on the 37880.

Verify the auto air conditioning system

1.

Select Full Cycle in the main menu. The LCD wi

2.
read “SELECT VACUUM TIME”

3. When the LCD reads “SET VACUUM TI
the vacuum
meric keypad until the de
the ENTER key to continue.

When the LCD reads “SET VAC HOLD TIME,”

4.
the vacuum
numeric keypad until the desired time is shown.
Press the ENTER key to continue.

time by entering the time using the nu-

sired time is shown. Press

hold time by entering the time using t

is off.

ME,”

ll

set

set

he

11. Record the final vacuum level shown on the low
pressure ga
ferent, the A/C system may have a leak and may
not retain refrigerant when charged. The 37880 will
automatically start the charge cycle.

12.

The unit will prompt you to
press and hold the START key until the desired
amount of oil is in

13.

The LCD will display the progress of t
process. Wh
been transferred to the A/C system, the unit will
beep.

14.

Verify the message on the LCD reads

CYCLE COMPLET

Press the RESET key.

15.

“CHECK OI
“HOSES NEED CLEARING”

Press the Enter Key. The unit will th

16.
to “DISCON

17.

Shut the service valves and disconn

and low side

uge. If the two recorded levels are dif-

“INJECT OIL NOW”

jected into the A/C system.

he charging

en the desired charge am

E.”

The LCD should read

L LEVELS.” The LCD will read

NECT VEHICLE.”

auto service hoses from the auto.

ount has

“FULL

en prompt you

ect the high

Note: We re
to ensure proper charging.

NOTE: Vacuum hold time can be bypassed if the
time is set to zero.

1.

When the LCD reads “SET CHARGE AMOUNT
set the char
ing the numeric keypad
shown. Press the ENTER key to continue.

6.

When the LCD reads “INJECT OIL AFTER VAC-

UUM”,

between YES and NO. Select YES or NO and
press the E

7.

The LCD should read

HOS

Press START KEY to begin full cycle operations.

8.

The unit will begin to recover as outlined for the Re-

9.
covery Only cycle, and then evacuate the A/C sys­tem and will beep to indicate the end of the vac­uum time— if Vacuum Hold is used.

Record the vacuum level shown on the low pres-

10.
sure gauge and press START to begin the vacuum
hold time. The hold time will count down on the LCD
and the unit will beep at the end of the hold time. If
vacuum hold time was set to zero, the unit will
transition into charge mode.

commend 10-15 minimum vacuum time

ge amount by entering the amount us-

until the desired time is

use the left and right arrow keys to toggle

NTER key to

ES TO VEHICLE

continue.

‘CONNECT SERVICE
’,

18. Press the ENTER key; the LCD will read
“CLEARING HOSES.”

Measure the oil in the oil drain bottle.

19.
recovered oil in a proper

Press the RESET key to return to the

20.

DE” status.

,”

MO

Model 37889 (Only) - The 37889 model has an inte-

grated micron gauge that can be used to determine the
micron level of the A/C System. The instructions below
will outline how to use this feature.

INTERGRATED MICRON GUAGE (37889 MODEL
ONLY) The 37889 model has an integrated micron

gauge that can be used to determine the micron level of
the A/C system. The instructions below will outline how
to use this feature .

Full Cycle / Vacuum operations– Select micron level by
using the up or down arrows. If you would rather enter
a time for the vacuum cycle press the START key. Use
the numeric keypad to set vacuum time. NOTE: Be­cause of the location of the vacuum sensor it may be
necessary to set the micron lever lower to compensate

Note:

Since the micron sensor is inside the unit and not
attached to t
actual micron reading in the vehicle.
To achieve the best results set the micron number
lower than the micron level you want to reach.

he vehicle there will be a difference in the

manner.

Dispose of

“SELECT

9

FULL CYCLE cont.

Models with the optional refrigerant identifier
37881/37888

The unit will display “IDENTIFY REFRIGERANT?” To
make your selection use the left or right arrow keys to
toggle from YES to NO. Press the ENTER key to make
your selection and then press the START key to start
the process. If YES is selected the unit will begin the
refrigerant identification process.

If the refrigerant does not pass the identification

process (98% purity) the unit will display the error
message “CONTAMINATED” and the screen will show
the results of the identification. Press the RESET key
and follow the instructions on the screen and the unit

SERVICING HIGH VOLTAGE A/C SYSTEMS
(MODELS 37887 AND 37888 ONLY)

Due to issues with oil contamination in High Voltage A/
C systems the 37887 and the 37888 have a unique
flushing feature that reduces cross contamination of oil
below SAE and OEM specifications.

will clear itself automatically. Repeat the identification
process to insure the proper identification of the refrig­erant purity level.
If the unit fails the second time follow the on screen in­structions and take the appropriate steps to remove the
contaminated refrigerant with a separate unit for re­moval of contaminated refrigerant.

WARNING: DO NOT RECOVER CONTAMINATED
REFRIGERANT WITH THIS UNIT. RECOVERING
CONTAMINATED REFRIGERANT WILL VOID ALL
WARRANTIES AND MY CAUSE DAMAGE TO
OTHER AUTOMOBILES THAT YOU SERVICE IN
THE FUTURE.

3.

Press the ENTER key to begin the

4.

The display
PLEASE WAIT”

5.

When the process is co
key to return to the main menu.

will then read “FLUSHING HOSES

mplete press the RESET

WARNI

NG

process

It is necessary to perform the following procedure be­fore working on a High Voltage A/C system.

Select HYBRID HOSE FLUSH in the main menu

1.
When the display reads “PLEASE

2.
FLUSH ADAPTER” co
adapter between the high and low side hose

nnect the su

CONNECT

pplied flush

s.

HYBRID HOSE FLUSH

The Hybrid Hose Flush feature is used to remove resid­ual oil and contaminates from the unit and hoses. The
SAE J2788 H standard requires that the unit remove
the residual oil so there isn't a risk of cross contaminat­ing the oil in a hybrid A/C system. Failure to perform

INTERGRATED MICRON GUAGE (37889 MODEL
ONLY)

The 37889 model has an integrated micron gauge that
can be used to determine the micron level of the A/C
system. The instructions below will outline how to use
this feature .

FAILURE TO PERFORM THIS PROCESS CAN
CAUSE DAMAGE TO THE A/C SYSTEM COMPRES­SOR AS WELL AS OTHER ELECTRICAL COMPO­NENTS RELATED TO THE A/C SYSTEM. THE POSI­BILITY OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK TO THE TECHNI­CIAN OR OTHERS MAY ALSO OCCUR BY NOT
PERFORMING THIS PROCESS

this function before working on a hybrid A/C system
can cause serious issues with the electrical system.
Having too much of the wrong type of oil in a hybrid A/C
system can conduct the electricity to the outside of the
A/C compressor.

Full Cycle / Vacuum operations– Select micron level by
using the up or down arrows. If you would rather enter
a time for the vacuum cycle press the START key. Use
the numeric keypad to set vacuum time. NOTE: Be­cause of the location of the vacuum sensor it may be
necessary to set the micron lever lower to compensate.

10

TANK REFILL

In order to use the charging mode, you must have at
least six (10) pounds of refrigerant in the storage tank.
Follow this procedure to add refrigerant to the storage
tank. When adding R-134a to the onboard storage tank
you will need to use the tank refill adapter (PART NUM-
BER 19153) supplied in the accessory kit. This adapter
connects the low side auto service coupler to the tank
of new R-134a refrigerant. It should be stored in the
tool tray on the top of the unit.

1.

Select TANK REFIL from the main menu.

Connect the blue low side auto service hose to t

2.
new refrigerant source t
valve. Turn t
all of the refr
tank on the

3.

Make sure you are reading pressure
gauge.

Press the START key. Refrigerant will transfer

4.
the storage t
when either the supply tank is empty or the storage
tank is full.

he source tank upside do

igerant is transferred to t

unit. Press the ENTER key.

ank. The unit will shut off automatical

ank and ope

n the tank

wn to ensure

he storage

on the low-side

he

to

ly

Models with the optional refrigerant identifier
37881/37888

The unit will display “IDENTIFY REFRIGERANT ?” To
make your selection use left or right arrow keys to tog­gle from YES to NO. Press the ENTER key to make
your selection and then press the START key to start
the process. If yes is selected the unit will begin the re­frigerant identification process.

If the refrigerant does not pass the identification proc­ess (98% purity) the unit will display the error message
“ CONTAMINATED” and the screen will show the re­sults of the identification. Press the Reset key and fol­low the instructions on the screen and the unit will clear
itself automatically. Repeat the identification process to
insure the proper identification of the refrigerant purity
level.

If the unit fails the second time follow the on screen
instructions and take the appropriate steps to remove
the contaminated refrigerant with a separate unit for
removal of contaminated refrigerant.

Press the RESET key to

DO NOT RECOVER CONTAMINATED REFRIGERANT WITH THIS UNIT. RECOVERING CONTAMINATED
REFRIGERANT WILL VOID ALL WARRANTIES AND MAY CAUSE DAMAGE TO OTHER AUTOMOBILES
THAT YOU SERVICE IN THE FUTURE.

return to the main menu.

WARNING

REFRIGERATION MANAGEMENT

The Refrigerant Management System built into the
37880 tracks all aspects of refrigeration usage. The
information can significantly help you manage your
automobile A/C repair business. In addition, new fed­eral regulations require strict records of your refrigerant
usage. The software in this system is designed to en­sure the highest possible accuracy in managing refrig­erant usage. Refrigerant measurement during charging
is extremely accurate. In Charge mode, however, accu­racy is plus or minus 1/2 ounce based on variations in
air temperature and pressure.

The refrigerant management information is
eight registers. To access the information, press
Mode 7, REFRIGERANT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM.
Press RMM key to cycle through the screens. The
screens contain the following information:

Screen 1: Last Job Information

Run Time
Refrigerant
Refrigerant
Refrigerant

Recovered
Charged
Added

stored in

Uses of the refrigerant data include:

 Improved record keeping

 Accurate de

 Reduced billing errors

 Minimized refrigerant lo

Reduced operator errors



termination of net profits

ss from leaks and theft

Screen 2: Year-to-date Information

Total Run Time
Total

Amount Recovered

Total

Amount Charged

Refrigerant

11

Added “New”

Purging Non-Condensable Gases

The 37880 is designed to automatically purge non­condesable gases such as air present in the storage
tank. When the pressure in the tank exceeds a treshold
value, the unit will automatically purge the excess
pressure. The unit will only purge when it is first turned
on. The current purge status is displayed in the bottom
right corner of the LCD when in Select Mode.

The purge status should be either “Y”, “N”, or “E.” A
“Y” indicates air is present in the tank. The unit will
purge the next time it is turned off and on. An “N” in
the window indicates a purge is not needed.

An “E” will display on the LCD if the previous purge
was insufficient to lower the non-condensable gas

Maintenance Reminders

FILTER - MAINTENACE WARNING! CHANGE FIL-

TER DRIER
The 37880 has a unique filter system which ensures

the refrigerant transferred to the storage cylinder is
clean and moisture-free. The filters must be changed
periodically to ensure the system is working properly.
A maintenance reminder prompts you when to change
your filters. All refrigerant must be removed from the
old filters before they are removed. Follow the filter
change procedures carefully to minimize refrigerant
loss and ensure only clean, moisture-free refrigerant
is transferred into the storage cylinder.

The new J2788 standard requires that the unit lock out
if the filter drier is not replaced at the proper interval.
The unit will prompt you when it is near the end of its
life. When the filter drier reaches 100 lbs of refrigerant
processed it will warn the user that it is nearing the end
of its life. When the filter drier reaches 150 lbs of refrig­erant processed it will lock the user out and require a
filter change before the unit can be used again. The
filter driers are marked with a unique code that will be
required to unlock the unit.

value below the limit. The purge time is set to 15
seconds to minimize refrigerant loss. If the LCD
continues to display an “E” after several purge cycles,
there may be an error in the system. Check the
pressure in the tank to determine if the system is
purging unnecessarily.

contact Ritchie Engineering Customer Service at (800)
769-8370.

The best time to check the purge function is after
the unit has sat overnight and the tank temperature
is stable.

Check Filter Life –
 Select the REF MANAGEMENT option in the main

menu.

 Press the RIGHT ARROW key to view the remain-

ing filter life.

Filter Change Procedure before Scheduled Filter
Change. Follow these steps to change the filter drier

before the scheduled filter change:
 Hold down DOWN ARROW key and turn main

power switch on.

 When display reads “INPUT SERIAL NUMBER”

enter serial number using the keypad.

Filter Change Procedure if Filter Lock Out is
reached.

 When the display reads “ MAINTENACE WARN-

ING! CHANGE FILTER DRIER”

 Press Enter key to enter filter change mode.
 Enter serial number using the keypad

12

Maintenance—Compressor Oil

The oil should be checked for contamination and proper
oil level when the compressor oil maintenance reminder
is displayed. Select RESET to turn reminder off until the
next time you start the unit. Select ENTER to reset the
reminder until the next scheduled maintenance.

Instructions for Oil Maintenance

Oil Level Check

1.

Place unit on a level surface and run
cycle with th

2. Unplug
Remove fron

3.
SLOWLY re

4.

e unit.

unit.

t cover of unit.

move oil port cap on co

a recovery

mpressor.

Oil Replace

Follow steps 1 thru 4 in the oil level check.

1.

2.

Tilt unit at 45° angle towards oil drain. port until
oil has been

3.

Refill with proper amount and type of oil. The pro
oil charge is 8.0 ounces 150 VISCOSITY(SUS)
POE oil.

4.

Replace oil port cap and
Dispose of o

5.

Note: Failure to perform oil mainten
compressor to overfill with oil and severely damage the
compressor.

ment Procedure

all

drained.

per

front cover.

il properly.

ance can cause the

Note: High pressure may be present, remove ca
slowly.

5.

Place rear wheels of unit

6.

Oil should drip out of oil drain port.

7.

If oil runs ou

8.

Replace oil port cap and
Dispose of o

9.

Maintenance— Vacuum Pump Oil

Select ENTER to turn the reminder off until the next
time you start the unit. Select RESET to reset the re­minder until the next scheduled maintenance.

Check oil level when pump is running.

When pump is running, oil level should be 1/2 to 5/8 up
in the sight glass. This level is necessary for proper op­eration.

This maintenance is best performed when the oil
is warm.

t of port rapidly, allow to drain.

il properly.

on a 2 x 4.

cover.

p

1.

Remove thumb screws under vacuum pump.
Rotate the front of the vacuum pump

2.
rear of the unit.
Place a container under the oil drain

3.
remove the
Drain oil into the containe

4.

5.

Dispose of the oil proper

6.

Refill the vacuum pump
(Quart Part no. 93192) vacuum pump oil to the
correct lev

7.

Reverse Steps 1-2.

oil drain plug

el.

.

r.

ly.

with YELLOW JACKET

towards the

plug and

Oil

Drain

Port

Calibration Check (1 lb weight)

1. Select SETUP in the main menu

2.

Select CALIBRATION CHECK

3.

Press “START” key to stabilize

4.

After stabilizing, machine will displa
1lb TEST WEIGHT
supplied)

5. Press the “START” key

Exa

mple: 1 lb. 02 oz (Out of Calibration)

0 lb. 15.98 oz (Out of Calibration)

NOTE: If out of calibration follow the steps displayed on
the display to recalibrate scale

THE TANK” (1lb weight

ON

y “PLACE THE

“WARNING SCALE CALIBRATION” MESSAGE

If the scale calibration changes, this message may
appear on the display. To reset the warning message
follow the on screen instructions or do the following:

1. Select SETUP in the main menu

Select CALIBRATE SCALE

2.

The display will then read

3.
FROM SCALE”

4.

Once the weight is removed press the START

The display will then read

5.
WAIT”

6.

When the display reads “POWER OFF AND RE­START SYSTEM” turn the main power switch off

Carefully place the tank back on the scale and tu

7.
the main power switch back on.

13

“REMOVE WEIGHT

“CALIBRATING PLEASE

:

key

rn

Troubleshooting Information

The 37880 has a number of sophisticated features which
make it by far the most user friendly A/C service system in
the world. The unit was designed for easy operation, service
and troubleshooting. Although the 37880 was manufactured
with high quality components, a component failure could
cause it to operate incorrectly.

The following section is designed to provide you with addi­tional information to help diagnose a system. If a problem
occurs, please read this section thoroughly prior to calling
technical support. This will reduce the time needed to restore
your system to normal operation. Our technical support num­ber is [phone].

Common Problems and Potential Solution

Problem Possible Causes Possible Solutions

37880 cannot pull auto­mobile A/C system into
a vacuum

High side gauge
readings above normal

Refrigerant not being
transferred during Tank
Refill.

 Service valves on hoses not properly installed
 Service ball valve seals are worn.
 Hoses on unit are loose or leak.
 Automobile A/C system has a leak.

 Restriction in A/C system or Schrader core.

 Service hose ball valve closed.
 Incorrect charge amount entered in unit.

 Valve on supply tank closed.
 Ball valve on blue service hose closed or

hose is constricted.

 Wrong hose installed on new refrigerant tank.
 Storage tank is full.

 Check valve seals and threads and replace if needed.
 Replace valve seals and Schrader core depressor.
 Tighten or replace hoses on unit.
 Find and repair leak in A/C system.

 Check hose connection and fix restriction. Replace

Schrader core.

 Open the valve.
 Recover, check scale calibration, and recharge

system.

 Open Valve.
 Open valve or straighten hose.
 Install blue service hose on refrigerant tank.
 Close valve on new supply. Disconnect service hose.

Touch Pad will not
accept commands

Fan not running in any
cycle

Machine will not turn on

Unit will not recover
refrigerant from A/C
system

Unit will not charge
refrigerant into vehicle

Refrigerant leaking
during charging

 Key on touch pad is stuck.
 Bad Touch Pad.
 Wire disconnected between touch pad and

microprocessor.

 Microprocessor malfunction.

 Loose power wire to fan.
 Microprocessor malfunction.
 Fan malfunction.

 Power cord is not plugged into a 120 Volt

outlet.

 Circuit breaker tripped on shop power panel.
 Bad Main Power switch.
 Loose wire.
 Bad Transformer on microprocessor board.

 Valves on service hoses shut.
 Service hose is constricted.
 Unit storage tank valve is closed.

 Compressor not operating.  Call Technical Support.

 Valves on service hoses shut
 Service hose is constricted
 Unit storage tank valve is closed

 Compressor not operating  Call Technical Support.

 Service valves on hoses not properly installed

on A/C system.

 Service ball valve seals are worn.  Replace valve seals and Schrader core depressor

 Feel for non-responsive key. If not responding, call

Technical Support.

 Call Technical Support.
 Call Technical Support.
 Call Technical Support.

 Locate loose fitting and reconnect.
 Call Technical Support.
 Call Technical Support.

 Plug into outlet.
 Reset circuit breaker. If circuit breaker immediately

trips, do not reset. Consult a qualified electrician.

 Call Technical Support.
 Repair loose wire.
 Call Technical Support.

 Open valves.
 Straighten hose.
 Open tank valves.

 Open valves
 Straighten hose
 Open tank valves

 Check valve seals and threads and replace if needed.

 Hoses on unit are loose or leak.  Tighten or replace hoses on unit

 Automobile A/C system has a leak  Find leak in A/C system and repair.

14

LCD Error Messages and Potential Solution

ERROR

NUMBER

ERROR 1 HIGH PRESSURE HIGH PRESSURE SWITCH IS TRIPPED

ERROR 2 TANK FULL TANK WEIGHT OVER 80% OF CAPACITY

ERROR 3

ERROR 4

ERROR 5

MESSAGE DESCRIPTION TROUBLESHOOTING

(NORMALY CLOSED SWITCH)

RECOVERY TIME
OUT

CHARGING TIME
OUT

NO TANK ON
SCALE

RECOVERY PROCESS HAS EXCEEDED
1 HR FACTORY DEFAULT

CHARGING PROCESS HAS EXEEDED
20 MIN FACTOR DEFAULT

SCALE NOT READING TANK WEIGHT

 OPEN TANK VALVE
 TEST HIGH PRESSURE SWITCH
 CHECK SV AND CHECK VALVE OP
 CHECK TANK PRESSURE

 CHECK SCALE CALIBRATION
 REMOVE SOME REFRIGERANT

FROM STORAGE TANK

 IF AC SYSTEM CONTAINS MORE

THAN 3 LBS OF REFRIGERANT
INCREASE DEFAULT TIME

 CHECK FOR LEAKS (HOSES, FIT-

TINGS AND AUTO AC SYSTEM

 OPEN TANK VALVES
 OPEN SERVICE COUPLERS
 SWITCH TO LOW SIDE CHARGING
 CHECK TANK WEIGHT (10 LB MIN)

 PLACE TANK ON SCALE
 CHECK SCALE CALIBRATION

ERROR 6 TANK EMPTY

ERROR 7

ERROR 8

ERROR 9

ERROR 10

ERROR 11

ERROR 12

ERROR 13 VACUUM ERROR

NOT ENOUGH
REFRIGERANT

TANK REFILL
TIME OUT

VACUUM TIME
OUT. PLEASE
CHECK FOR
LEAK

SYSTEM
EQUALIZED

HOSE CLEARING
TIME OUT

POSSIBLE OVER
CHARGE

REFRIGERANT BELOW 5 % OF
TANK CAPACITY

UNIT IS LOW ON REFRIGERANT
(10 LB MIN)

TANK REFILL HAS EXCEEDED
DEFAULT TIME

PRESSURE EQUALIZED DURING
CHARGING

CLEARING TIME OUT AFTER
CHARGING

POTENTIAL OVERCHARGE OF THE
VEHICLE

LP SWITCH OPENED DURRING
VACUUM HOLD

 REFILL TANK
 CHECK SCALE CALIBRATION

 REFILL TANK

 RUN TANK REFILL MODE AGAIN
 CHECK FOR LEAKS
 TEST LOW PRESSURE SWITCH

 NOT USED

 INCREASE VACUUM TIME
 RUN THE VEHICLE TO DRAW IN THE

REMAINING REFRIGERANT
CHARGE

 CLOSE SERVICE VALVES AND DIS-

CONNECT

 REPEAT RECOVERY AND CHARGE

PROCESS

 REPEAT VACUUM CYCLE

ERROR 14

ERROR 15

ERROR 16 IDENT ERROR IDENTIFIER ERROR

LEAK CHECK
FAILD

SYSTEM
MALFUNCTION

FAILED TO HOLD VACUUM AFTER 5
ATTEMPTS

EEP-ROM DATA READ/WRITE ERROR

 REPEAT RECOVERY PROCESS
 CHECK FOR LEAKS

 REPLACE MICROPROCESSOR

 CALL TECH-SUPPORT

15

37880 Repair Parts List

Part # Description

95423 High Pressure Switch

41301 High Side Coupler

41302 Low Side Coupler

68950 Printer Paper

38089 Tuf-Lok™ Fasteners

38019 Oil Bottle

38053 Service Compressor

Part # Description

01215 R-134a Auto Low Side Blue Hose (10ft)

01216 R-134a Auto High Side Red Hose (10ft)

01152 R-134a Tank Vapor Blue Hose (30in)

01224 R-134a Tank Liquid Red Hose (30in)

19153 R-134a Tank Refill Adapter

95006 50lb Refrigerant Tank

38003 Filter-Dryer (1 per unit)

95157 Circuit Breaker, 15 Amp

38113 Automatic Scale Assembly

Warranty Information

LIMITED WARRANTY

Ritchie Engineering guarantees YELLOW JACKET® products to be free of defective material and workmanship which would affect the life
of the product under normal use for the purpose for which it was designed.

This warranty does not cover items that have been altered, abused, misused, improperly maintained, or returned solely in need of field
service maintenance. This warranty expressly excludes Vacuum Pump damage and failures caused by failure to maintain clean, uncon­taminated oil in the pump – the major reason for pump returns. Therefore, problems related to non-maintained oil will void this warranty on
that part of the product.

This warranty does not cover abuse, damage from over tightening valves, or broken gauges. “Series 41” Manifold valves can be recondi­tioned using replacement seating cylinder 41133. There will be a reconditioning charge for manifolds returned to the factory for repair.

If found defective, we will upon compliance with the return instructions either credit, replace, or repair, at our option, the defective product
provided it is returned within one year of the date of factory shipment (90 days for tubing tools). Note: Hoses are Date Coded to help de­termine age of hose. See recommended hose safety inspection procedure. Leak detectors have date of manufacture label on product.

Correction in the manner provided above shall constitute a fulfillment of all liabilities with respect to the quality, material and workmanship
of the product. THE FOREGOING WARRANTY IS EXCLUSIVE AND IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES OF QUALITY,

WHETHER WRITTEN, ORAL OR IMPLIED.

WARRANTY RETURNS - For HVAC&R Recovery Units and for Automotive Recovery, Recycle, Recharge equipment, call

1-800-769-8370 for instructions for service, repair, or return. The 37880 Series units are covered by a one year parts and labor war-

ranty. For all other products, please return warranty items to the main factory in Bloomington, MN, prepaid for credit, replacement, or re­pair, at our option. No authorization is required. All returns must be PREPAID. On direct drive pumps, many of the problems can be
solved over the telephone. Call 952-943-1333.

NO

N-WARRANTY RETURNS

PREPAID. Minimum restocking charge 20% on standard items of current date coding and manufacture. Special production items will have
a higher restocking charge. Many items shown in our price list are custom-fabricated to customer’s order.

- Prior authorization must be obtained from home office for non-warranty returns. All returns must be

Printed in U.S.A 10/11 P/N 380539

Test Equipment Depot - 800.517.8431 - 99 Washington Street Melrose, MA 02176

TestEquipmentDepot.com