refridgerant?

R12

The "old" systems use R-12....if you're near the Atlanta Metro Area, I probably have enough to get you through the rest of the season.....
 
If your system has no leaks (It does, otherwise it wouldn't be low on refrigerant) and your compressor is healthy, a PROPER retrofit to r134a will require:

- evacuate and recover the r12
- dissassemble all lines and flush condenser, suction line, high pressure line, evaporator, liquid line
- new O rings on all spring lock fittings and compressor
- new r134a approved fittings
- new unopened accumulator (if you want it to last)
- 8-10 oz of ester oil or PAG, properly distributed
- properly lubed Orings with Nylog (best) or mineral oil (suitable)
- reassemble and promptly pull vaccuum to boil off moisture
- recharge with proper amount of r134a using guages for optimum pressure readings.

Expect to pay around $200 or more at a qualified A/C shop.:eek: Sorry, but that's what it takes. Call around a couple of A/C places and find out what steps they take, and what they charge. If they're scant on details about the work, hang up and call some other place. To me, a good shop should be willing to share details, it shows a sign that they have pride in their work and are interested in you as a customer. In other words, they should try to win your business.

If you want the cheapy $35 retrofit :( , you can get a kit at parts stores, or Walmart. This kit should get you through the rest of the year before it kills your compressor. OK, to be fair, the kit itself won't, its the fact that it does nothing to remove the moisture from your system.

Now, you know why continuing to use R12 might be a better choice. Of course, whatever refrigerant you choose, you should fix the leaks before you have bigger problems.
 
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