A/C conversion procedure?

[doclees]

Ok it is time to convert the ac to R134a in the 93 atx. What is the best way to do it without having a shop do it? The past threads leave me confused....which is easy.

Parts
What do I need to do it right?

Labor
can I have what is left of the r12 evac'ed, replace the parts then have it charged and checked for leaks?

My understanding is a need a $50 acumulator and some selection of o rings and seals. I have a tough time figuring where $600 dollar in r134a and labor comes in to justify the cost of a Pro.

thanks folks

 

[projectSHO89]

Much depends on the current condition.

A QUALITY conversion should:

Evacuate existing refrigerant.

Open all springlock connectors and remove connectors from compressor manifold:
Flush out old mineral oil from evaporator and condensor
Replace all O-rings with the new green style

Remove compressor and drain out mineral oil
Refill using correct replacement oil in the specified amount
Reinstall compressor

Install new accumulator (receiver/drier) and liquid lines.
Install correct amount of oil in the correct places

Install high pressure cutout switch.

Reconnect all hoses and lines.

Install new adapters if needed.

Purge, evacuate, leakdown test, and recharge to correct specification.

Performance test and install conversion label.


The typical DIY conversion:

Buy $30 "death kit" from AutoZone or WalMart

Release any remaining refrigerant

Install adapters

Throw two or three cnas of R134a into the system

Forever ****** about R134a being an "inferior" refrigerant and keep adding more to the leaky system.

Now, you can see why a pro charges $600 for this service. He has several thousand dollars in equipment plus his training to pay for....

Steve

 

[doclees]

Thanks projectsho, That is the info I was looking for. Now I don't mean $600+ isn't a fair price for the work, I just cannot justify paying the money. I am cheap. I guess I will need to coordinate this work with the mech. that will be charging the system to see how we can find a happy medium. I know they have expenses. I know they have skills. Well some do.