R12 to R134a

[LEB Ben]

Anybody here converted their A/C system from R12 to 134a???? Would be best if you had pics and a step by step. I've been toying with getting the Bronk's A/C up and running again, but I've read a wiiiiiiiiide variety of different processes taken. I've read anything from just needing bubble gum and a paper clip to needing a new flux capacitor 2.0. So if anyone here has converted their truck, I'd be really interested in knowing what was done for a good working conversion. Thanks for any input.

 

[bucks77ford]

It's a pretty simple conversion. First you have to evac the system of any R12 that may be left. Then you have to change the hose fittings to R134a compatible and then add the R134a. If your system is already empty and you don't need anyone to recover the R12 than you can get the basic hose/gauge kit along with however many cans of R134a you need and start filling. I can't remember how many cans usually goes in. R134a isn't as cold as R12, but can be run in older A/C systems. At least I hadn't had any problems in the older vehicles I've driven, just not as COLD air, but works.

 

[Fellro]

I've done a number of these, and I'm sure there will be those that disagree, but the conversion kits do work. I have yet to fight the peanut butter problem =many claim, and I even have one system running both R-12 and R134 at the same time... the trick is the conversion oil, without it, you will be screwed. It comes in the kits. You basically add the conversion fittings, charge it and go. Now if you had the system open, or it has a large leak, then you have to vac it down, and doing a vac on it isn't a bad idea anyway.

 

[LEB Ben]

Where can you get these all inclusive conversion kits??????

 

[bucks77ford]

It's been a long time since I've had to charge a system. I've already converted my fittings and the system is empty. I've changed all the O rings on the hoses so I should be ready. What's the steps in charging the system?

 

[LEB Ben]

Alright just did a little searching...didn't realize you could still get r12 refrigerant...O'Reilly's has it for $35 per 12oz can. I've never had a r12 setup, is it recharged like a 134 system??? Professional opinion...should I stay with the 12 or convert to the 134????

 

[radialarm]

I just happen to know something about this.

First, You need the conversion fittings to change your service ports.

Second, You need to flush the old mineral oil out of the hoses, coils, etc... Change "O"rings, and reciever/dryer or accumulator while you're at it.

Lastly, Vacuum the system down, add proper amount of PAG or Ester oil and fill with about 10% less R124a than R12.

 

[UNRULEE]

I haven't messed with a/c since college. I did two conversions then. As stated earlier different fittings are needed, and a different oil is needed.

I may me wrong but I thought that R12 was now uber expensive? and didn't cool as well?

 

[radialarm]

I just happen to know something about this.

First, You need the conversion fittings to change your service ports.

Second, You need to flush the old mineral oil out of the hoses, coils, etc... Change "O"rings, and reciever/dryer or accumulator while you're at it.

Lastly, Vacuum the system down, add proper amount of PAG or Ester oil and fill with about 10% less R134a than R12.

Sorry for the typo!!!

 

[Fellro]

I can't say if they do or don't have the proper R12, but I can guarantee you won't touch it without a license to buy it. I have heard of a product similar to R12 called Freeze 12, which maybe that is.

 

[Fellro]

Where can you get these all inclusive conversion kits??????

Pretty easy to find, Wally World, O'Reilly, Advance, AZ, most parts stores...

 

[LEB Ben]

I can't say if they do or don't have the proper R12, but I can guarantee you won't touch it without a license to buy it. I have heard of a product similar to R12 called Freeze 12, which maybe that is.

Yeah...I always thought you needed a license for the real r12 stuff. It looks like it is the real stuff that O'Reilly's has, but it is expensive, and I didn't think I could get it anyway.

Pretty easy to find, Wally World, O'Reilly, Advance, AZ, most parts stores...

Yeah I was just doing some searches...a little confused on what I need, there are kits ranging fron $36 to $250...is that due to quality, how inclusive the kits are, etc?

 

[Fellro]

The $35 kits come with the fittings, PAG oil, 2 cans R-134, fill hose, some have gauges, some don't, instruction. The more expensive kits will come with o-rings, orifice tubes and such.

 

[LEB Ben]

Alright thanks bud...gonna get on the swap as soon as I get home...it's gonna be nice having functional A/C in the NC summers. Red doesn't have it, and Thunder's leaks so bad you'd have to refill it just about every day.

 

[chuck101st]

I know that they used to say replace the orifice tube. Actually when they first came out with 134 they said you had to replace accumulator dryer, orifice tube and all hoses because the molecules of 134 are smaller and would leak through the hoses. Now they say that the old oil that was in r 12 and is soaked into the hoses creates a barrier. Some people still replace the dryer, but I think all you have to replace is the orifice tube.

 

[dentside79]

I replaced my entire A/C system (evaporator coil, expansion valve, suction and discharge hoses, compressor, clutch, and dryer). If you are changing your coolant but not replacing all your A/C components you will need to first convert all your o-ring to a "R134a" compliant o-ring. These are green in color. I would also recommend changing your copper washer on the oil fill plug on top of your compressor. Next you will need to replace your dryer (accumulator) this is a must! Next, you will have to buy a R134a retro fit kit which contains the appropriate oil to mix with your coolant. It also contains the proper fittings for charging/discharging. You will need to first vent out all old R12 coolant into a holding tank by using a vacuum specifically made for this application (It is illegal to vent any type of coolant into the atmosphere by the way). You basically want to clean out the entire system. The key to a good A/C is a CLEAN system. Next, you will want to pull a vacuum on the entire system and see if it holds pressure. If it does, your unit is sealed and you can install the R134a. They sale charging kits at local parts stores, but they do not work very well. I suggest having a professional do this part to insure the amount of coolant/oil and pressure are just right. Too much coolant = BAD, too much oil = BAD!. It is better to not have enough verses having too much. If the mixture and pressure are correct, you should be at around 45deg. at the vent register. Use any thermometer, stick it in your A/C vent register and monitor your temp. with the A/C on high (fan on high).