[V6-12v] R134A conversion

[apowell at colocougs.org]

"Frank Chapchuk" <chapchuk at hotmail.com>

After 13 years, the AC on my '92 100 isn't as cold as it used to be. The
system still runs on R12. Does anyone know what must be done to convert to
R134.

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Yes. You can try to use the existing compressor, but chances are it will leak like crazy due to the
smaller molecular size of R134A. As long as it still works with R12, your smartest move is to
re-charge with R12.

Otherwise, in order:

1) Go to an AC shop and have the whole system vacuumed out thoroughly to clean it up.

2) Remove the drier (accumulator) and replace it. It has R12 lubricant in it and that lube cannot be
used with an R134A system.

3) If you're brave, replace all O-rings with R134 A type. If you do this, you should probably also
replace the orifice valve (small conical screen) in the system just so it's clean.

4) Go back to AC shop and have them charge it up with R134A and the correct lube.

Cooling will be about 1/3 less efficient than the original system, and you will probably get less
than one season between complete re-charges due to leakage.

The best fix is to replace the compressor as well, but it's an expensive part and a lot of work to
get at. You will still have some leakage.

R12 is the smart place to stay as long as the system works. It's much cheaper than the conversion.

************************************
Al Powell
apowell at gocougs.wsu.edu
1958 Fiat 1200 Transformabile Spyder
1983 Datsun 280ZX Turbo
1993 Audi 90Q
1991 Camaro RS Convertible
1997 Chebby Blazer
1999 Chebby Blazer
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