AC conversion: R12 -> R134

[rain406]

How do I know if my car's AC system has been converted?

If not, how much, and how hard is the conversion? (If I do it, or a shop does it)

If I were to recharge it with R12 if it's the old AC system, how much does it normally cost at a place that has R12?

For R134, can I just go to Autozone and buy the cans, and refill it myself?

[Gforcefd]

We where just discussing this. I believe it will cost you around $100 dollars to convert your system (having old stuff sucked out, changing o rings, changing oil, and having new stuff put in) that is as long as there isn't anything broken that needs replacing

There should be a little sticker on the fill tube that says if it has been converted.

[Gforcefd]

BTW: R12 is almost impossible to get because they don't manufacture it anymore, if you can find some it will be very expensive.

[25Horseplay]

If your system has been converted to 134 it should have adapters on the fill connectors. And possibly a sticker stating that it was converted.

[dahodges]

I put freeze12 in my system this spring. Of course, I have a slow leak. It's work fine all summer.

[Dave G]

BTW: R12 is almost impossible to get because they don't manufacture it anymore, if you can find some it will be very expensive.

I used up my last 2 (slightly rusty) cans of R12 last summer trying to get the yellow car's AC working... :cry:

[Festiva GTX]

BTW: R12 is almost impossible to get because they don't manufacture it anymore, if you can find some it will be very expensive.

Not really impossible, but expensive for sure... one of R-12 can per about $45-$50 :shock:

I don't recommend converted to R-134a and you will have leaking problem and putting more high pressure on stock compressor, lead to short life.

[stefan]

my uncle had his R12 central air recharged last year by some shady guy and it ran him $400

[Festiva GTX]

There lot bunch refrigerants types out there and some I haven't tried it...

R-12 - (OEM for Ford Festiva)

R-12a Hychill
R-12a Duracool
R-12a Maxi-Frig
Enviro-Safe
Red Tek
Auto Cool
ES-12A
Freeze 12
and many more...

Some people have installed their A/C in illegal way with R-290 (Propane)

R-290 - Propane. Much more dangerous of explosive hazard but it get awesome super cold and high energy efficient. Also very cheap to drop in! (don't try yourself at home)

[25Horseplay]

^^Out of the ones you have tried which ones worked best?

[Festiva GTX]

^^Out of the ones you have tried which ones worked best?

The one I have felt coldest A/C blowing is...

R-290 (propane) works like freezing machine and it get around -10F to -30F degree... with little mod with themostat probe.

The R-290 have lot of advanages over than standard of refgerants such R12 and R134a it don't make high pressure on compressor. It improved about 8% - 15%+

If you are lost in forest or somewhere in snow cannot get something to cook your foods.... simple attach the hose on A/C nipple and get your camping burner to cook your very own nice for dinner! Recharge the R290 later. :lol: :lol: :lol:

Only big negative is R290 is strong flammable but if you know handing of flammable products then you will fine and not for newbies.

[25Horseplay]

Which safe one is coldest?