In this video, I will be swapping out the Compressor, discharge hoses, orifice tube, and high pressure switch. I will also flush the system and add R134.
To clear up some information. Automotive systems used R12 until 1994-96 time frame. R12 systems used mineral oil which is not usable by R134a, 134 will NOT circulate the mineral oil, so bad news for the compressor. I've done a few of these conversions and have always used POE (ester) oil, never had any problems. O-rings will probably need replacing to ensure compatibility with 134 as will the accumulator (134 requires XH5 or XH7 dessicant, IIRC). If R12 mixes with atmospheric air (oxygen) and stands for any amount of time within the system an acid is formed that will eat from the inside out weakening condensers and evaporators.
Thanks for the info. I replaced all of the o-rings, so I should not have issues there. What would you recommend as the best way to flush the system? I think I could have done a better job with that.
After watching this video, I think I'll take my car to an A/C mechanic ;) I know it will cost me a couple grand or so, but I think it's too hard to DYI it w/o all the proper tools (and expertise).
It's still going strong. The biggest improvement was sealing all of the vents behind the dash when I restored the interior. Now I can't leave the AC on full blast for more than 5-10 minutes without freezing. Even in 110 Arizona heat. We'll worth the time and money.
@@fultonsgarage6331 I'm not sure how much it matters, just figured that's why it stuck out a bit further than the old one. Kinda hard to tell in the video but I think the old one was yanked out the other way. Still a killer video, using your tips to convert mine!
@@fultonsgarage6331 thanks for the reply!! I had the compressor, dryer, & lines replaced in my ‘84 last week. He also installed a new fan clutch in hopes of pulling as much air as possible through the condenser. When it’s about “90ish” outside, & sitting idling, mine was about 60 degrees. I was hoping for around 40’s but I guess that isn’t going to happen. 🤷♂️
@@fultonsgarage6331 Just put fans with a relay on the condenser. Wire the fan's relay "on when powered" wire to the green wire on the compressor or high pressure switch. The fans will come on when the AC turns on. R134a requires more cooling than R12 and some recommend the newer horizontal condensers. Try the fans first and you should be OK since you're cooling a truck cab vs a larger car interior. Should see around 10 degrees difference with some good fans.
@sbc383zz r12 or r134a? Or possibly propane.. r12 gets cold but only 4 or so° colder than r134a and 134a doesn't get down to 12° unless something is wrong
