Community Forums

gt350ed · 08-13-2014, 01:10 PM

Hi guys! Haven't been here in awhile, but you all have certainly been helpful in the past.

We're getting ready for going on the road. As a refresher, ours is a 90 1/2 Bounder with 37,000 original miles. We have owned it since new and it has almost always been garaged. So, in a lot of ways it is almost new.

My latest project in need of attention is the in-dash chassis A/C. We have been essentially doing without it for several years. Mechanically, everything works as it should. Originally, and even now, my thought was that it just needed a re-charge of Freon.

Of course, the whole world has changed. My R-12 system exists in a world of R-134 or whatever the latest is. Making matters worse, I'm in California.

I'm very mechanically inclined, but know nearly nothing about A/C systems. I'm sure there are some checks that should be performed and/or certain equipment to be acquired to do so.

So, my question is...what would you do to save money but have a working system prior to going on the road? I'm not opposed to paying someone, but if I can do it myself in relatively short order...

Thanks.

cc8375 · 08-13-2014, 06:43 PM

Over the years, I have changed many vehicles out from R-11 to the new R-134. YOu will need to change out one valve and if the system still has r-11 then it needs to be captured.
Convert your automotive air conditioner from R-12 to R-134 Refrigerant.

The only issue I ever had was that on small 4 cylinders we connected the fan on a switch to blow over the Condenser when idling.

You probably have a slight leak, happens with age. Will need to maybe add some R-134 each year.

whem2fish · 08-14-2014, 05:04 AM

look into R-12A i can buy locally no license for $15 a can

TQ60 · 08-14-2014, 09:36 AM

Hot shot is a direct replacement used by commercial folks.

About same cost as other stuff.

Would need to call around for vendor or servicer.

For less than 300 you can get a 30 pounder and diy or hire it done with your material.

cc8375 · 08-14-2014, 06:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by whem2fish

look into R-12A i can buy locally no license for $15 a can

Never seen 12A but will check it out.......

gt350ed · 08-14-2014, 10:42 PM

So far, the answers to my question seem to be varied. Some say R-134. Some say 12a. Some say Hot Shot.

My system is a R12 system. I don't think you can just put R134 in a R12 system without changing out certain components. No?

I'd really like someone to tell me exactly what to do. I'd really like to stay with the existing system. What to buy, how to check the system for leaks, how to fix leaks, etc.

TQ60 · 08-14-2014, 11:00 PM

R134 will seep through the r12 rubber and oil not compatable.

A locsl company that does industral systems uses the hot shot as direct replacement.

whem2fish · 08-15-2014, 02:00 AM

R-12A ia the echo friendly blend i havent the faintist on hot shot

cc8375 · 08-15-2014, 07:43 PM

I am sorry that my thoughts and experience was not conveyed. Yes you can use R-134. Yes do will need to change 1 (one) fitting for the new R-134. Fitting cost, a few dollars, come with some of the kits. If you google this All info and items will be provided. Total cost, Less than $50.

I have converted well over 20 vehicles with NO issues.

https://www.google.com/webhp?sourcei...ofit+r134a+kit

IDQ R12 to R134a Retrofit Kit | Product Details | Pep Boys

TQ60 · 08-15-2014, 07:58 PM

We have converted few and since they were r12 they were built to that standard.

And most of them required charging due to not the best materials.

The hoses were not usually double wall like they are in most r134 systems.

The r134 actually flows through the hose so it will need charging.

Pag oil is often used and one can just change the fittings and add some oil and you will be okay.

Swapping the drier is suggested to get some of the old oil and any crud out of the system.

If you can get a manifold and non contact thermometer it works better.

The sight glass will have some foam as you do not fill as much...maybe 80% but not certian there.

Sams sometimes sells r134 in 30 pounders for good price...one will allow many refils...the jeep gets one every season...

The coach gets hot shot due to system complexity and dual systems, just add and go.