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Air Conditioning
FAQ's
ANSWER:
Yes. If you own a vehicle that still
uses R-12 refrigerant the best thing to do is convert it to
R134a. Local auto parts stores sell R134a conversion kits for
this. However, the kits claim all you have to do is change the
fittings add the refrigerant and ester oil and your done. If you
do this it's a gamble, it might or might not work. The proper
way to do this is to change the accumulator or dryer, add the
proper type and amount of pag oil, change the fittings, pull a
vacuum on the system and recharge with the proper amount of
R134a. ( You start with 80% of the R-12 amount.) Some experts
recommend flushing the system to remove all old mineral oil.
If you own a vehicle with R134a all
you have to do is add the R134a to the system, but you still
have to make the choice of using the ester oil or finding a way
to add the right type of pag oil. Not adding any oil will cause
the compressor to eventually lock up or become noisy, both will
contaminate the A/C system causing additional repairs.
In both cases recharging the A/C
requires a set of A/C gauges to properly fill the system and
that does not come with the kit. You will have to buy or borrow
a set to properly charge the system. If your A/C system is empty
or you have taken apart and repaired the A/C system you will
also need a vacuum pump. If you recharge the system leaving air
and moisture inside the system it will not work properly.
When hooking up the gauges be sure to
hook the high and low side ports up correctly. The high side
valve on the gauge set should be left closed. You only charge
through the low side port. Opening the high side valve or having
the hoses connected wrong with the refrigerant can connected
could over-pressurize the can causing it to explode, you could
be seriously injured or killed.
Now that said, you attach and open
the can on the gauge set before connecting to the vehicle,
momentarily open the low side valve to expel the air and
moisture from the line and hook the gauges to the car. Always
keep the can in an upright position so liquid refrigerant does
not enter the low side line, this can damage the compressor. Do
not heat the can to make it go in faster as the could cause it
to explode. It can take 10 or 15 minutes to get one 14oz. can
into the system, be patient. When changing or disconnecting cans
close the low side valve on the gauge set and remove the can.
There will be some pressure left in the can, use caution. Add
refrigerant to the A/C system until gauge readings are correct
and you are done.
