<ALL> R-134A

["Al Powell" <apowell@agcom.tamu.edu>]

Graydon wrote....

>  The R-134a compressors are typically higher capacity because 
> R-134a is not as efficient as R-12.   That's why the shop suggested
> the possibility of using an additional fan on the condensor.

I understand that.  It's worth noting that I did replace the 
compressor - and I got one at NAPA.  They assured me that the 
compressor was R-134A ready.
 
> > My judgment: if I have any AC problems from this point on, I will not 
> > re-fill with R-12.  I'll just have them suck the remaining R-12 out 
> > and refill with R-134A.  It probably will be cheaper, too!
> 
> Did they replace all the seals with R-134a-compatible seals?  
> R-134a has smaller molecules, so it leaks out of R-12 systems pretty
> easily.   You'll likely have to recharge it more often.

I suspect that's how the compressor was made "R-134A ready".  If I 
was to convert a system in which I was not changing the compressor, 
I'd still go the 134A route, just to make refills available and 
inexpensive.  My 280ZX has not needed a top-off in four years, 
however...so I might just stay with R-12 in it...depends on the 
mechanical cause if it needed refrigerant.

> I've been thinking about using a compressor normally designed for
> R-134a on my wife's T-Bird, and charging the system with R-12 for a
> really coold A/C system.

Certainly that would work - but I'm not 100% sure it's necessary.  I 
AM sure it would cost a lot more for the refrigerant!!  I personally 
would use R-134A  to make life simple....but hey, I own an Audi, 
so when did I decide to make life simple, right???


*.......................................................*
Al Powell, Ph.D.                 Voice:  409/845-2807
107 Reed McDonald Bldg.          Fax:    409/862-1202
College Station, TX 77843      
Http://agcomwww.tamu.edu/agcom/satellit/alpage.htm
*.......................................................*