Need A/C help in N.E...

[Freak SHO]

So, I need to charge my (non-converted), A/C system.

The previous owner gave me 2 cans of R-19 to last me through this summer...

What I need, and can't seem to find is someone with the setup to charge. Everywhere I go has the 134a charger that works with gas grill propane type tanks. I have the hairspray-size cans. Does anyone know where I could find someone to help? I'd rather not convert since I have to discharge my system this fall anyway to replace the heater core.

TIA for any replies. thumb

Ben

 

[LaTechSHO]

i assume you meant R-12, not R-19.... but if you do want to do that you will need to find either someone who has the equipment, or take it to a shop to have it done. I would steer you towards purchasing the charge hose yourself, but you must be licensed to buy that just as you would need to be to buy R-12....

good luck

Louis

 

[Freak SHO]

Yeah,

R-12 is what I meant...still a rookie when it comes to A/C...

So, now I see DIY kits on Ebay that include a short length of hose, and claim to be "universal." Does anyone have experience using one of these kits? Are they compatible w/ a SHO? If so, where do I recharge? Is it the schrader valve on the passenger side firewall? Or the valve near the battery?

Again, thanks...

B

OK, now it looks like I have access to a hose. Does anyone have any advice on how to fill? Do I run the compressor on max? Do I just fill w/out the engine running? Procedures people!!!

THANKS!!!

<small>[ June 26, 2003, 04:14 PM: Message edited by: Freak SHO ]</small>

 

[rangerj]

Freak SHO,

1. How do you know you need a charge, verses some other problem with the system?

2. Assuming you DO need a charge, the low pressure (aka suction) valve is on the passenger side of the vehicle back by the firewall. The low pressure hose is larger than the high pressure hose, and the low pressure valve is larger than the high pressure valve.

You DO NOT want to try to put in a charge in the high pressure valve. The can is already under a lot of pressure and could explode like a grenade!

3. Yes, you put the A/C on max after connecting your hose to the R-12 can and the LOW PRESSURE VALVE. When the A/C cycles it will vacuum the R-12 into the system. The pressure in the can will also help to push the fluid into the system as it turns into a gas.

You can aide the process if you put the can in hot TAP water. DO NOT DO THIS UNTIL THE CAN IS AT LEAST HALF to two-thirds EMPTY (or half full if you are an optimist ).

If the system is to low in pressure to energize the clutch, then the low pressure switch should be jumpered to activate the clutch so the system can cycle.

The low pressure switch is on top of the Accumulator/dryer.

4. Refrigerant as a liquid is kept that way with pressure. When the pressure is relieved it will evapoate very rapidly. If you get any of the liquid on you it could give you instant frostbite.

If you get any in you eyes....! eek!
Do not take this stuff for granted, it is dangerous if you are careless. A word to the wise, nuff said? thumb rangerj

 

[Freak SHO]

RanjerJ,

Thanks for the helpful info.

The reason I think it needs a charge is because the previous owner said that he charged it anually, and it worked ok earlier this spring, steadily declining in performance the more I used it...

Good, concise outline...thanks. I'll try not to blind myself or blow up my hand!

Ben