How do I know if I have R12 or R134?

[Trusty89]

My SHO had a new AC compressor installed in 1999 by a Ford Dealership and at the time my system was an R12 one. I don't have the receipt anymore and I can't remember if they converted to the new R134 stuff.

Well, now that I need to recharge I don't know what whether to simply put in more 134 or convert it. Are there any telltale signs of what my system is?

 

[SHO#7]

If your system has been converted, they are supposed to label. If not, you can look at the fittings. Normally 134 will have a blue cap on the low side and a red cap on the high side.

Also, you can look at the low and high side. if it looks like there is an adapter screwed on, they you have been retrofitted. Hope this helps.

Mike

 

[Trusty89]

Thanks Mike! That's exactly what I needed to see.

 

[projectSHO89]

To expand on MIke's comments:

R12 ports resemble tire valves. Yhe hose fittings screw on.

R134a systems use a quick-disconnect style that resembles the quick-disconnect fittings common to air-powered tools.

Retrofit kits include screw-on adapters that make the transition from the old style to the new style. They inlude the colored dust caps.

Steve

 

[TYSHO]

I've seen upgraded R134a systems without the service tag, nor fittings.

 

[SHOZ123]

For OEM systems...


Identifying R-134a and R-12 Systems

NOTE:
R-134a A/C systems can also be identified by a gold colored A/C compressor clutch.


In order to find out which type of A/C system a particular vehicle has, the A/C system major components and refrigerant lines need to be inspected. If the system components have yellow R-134a NON-CFC tags as shown below, it is an R-134a system requiring the use of R-134a refrigerant.