Recharge empty A/C system???

gerrywalshe · Posted: Fri Aug 01, 2008 4:08 pm Post subject: Recharge empty A/C system???

Hi, I have an 87 Elkie that just had an engine replacement done before I got it. The A/C components were bolted back on and converted to R-134. The A/C system has no freon in it. Is it an easy job to recharge it myself? Is it as simple of hooking up one of those DIY kits to the low side and adding R-134? I hear talk about running a vacuum, etc... I am trying to do this as cheaply as possible.

Any help would be very much appreciated.

Robby85 · Posted: Fri Aug 01, 2008 7:37 pm Post subject:

Check out the right side of the home page for a rolling banner (Autocool.com). A lot of useful information.
And there are a lot of AC experts on the forum who will chime in.
Good luck.
_________________
77 HD Sportster
79 Corvette L82
85 El Camino SS LG4
93 Camaro Z28 LT1
05 Dodge Caravan daily driver - yeah baby!

CoyoteOn2 · Posted: Fri Aug 01, 2008 7:38 pm Post subject:

The cheapest will end up being the most expensive in your case. When the system has been opened up and exposed to the atmospheir, (oops) it will need to be evacuated and vaccume test performed. Unless you just want to through your money away, and spend lots more down the road in a very short time. Do yourself a BIG favor and spend a few dollars more now, and have it done right, by someone that knows what they are doing.

_________________
http://elcaminocentral.com/gallery-album_CoyoteOn2s77Cage.html

Keep the Shiney Side Up
The Rubber Side Down !!
aka Larry

mhamilton · Posted: Sat Aug 02, 2008 4:08 pm Post subject:

As was said, an open a/c system needs more work than one that was just working. At this point, you should flush out all the old oil and dirt and start fresh. If it was converted properly, the oil will be PAG 150, and that absorbs moisture. Flush it out and add back the correct quantity. The compressor should be flushed with fresh oil, no solvent.

The accumulator will need to be replaced as a standard course of repair. Those are not expensive, around $30. Also the orifice tube, those are 60 cents.

After that, the system will need to be evacuated and charged. If the retrofit quantity was not marked, start at 85% of the R12 charge and add slowly to achieve best pressures/temperatures.

Also, don't bother with the parts store magic-in-a-can R134. The ones with sealer will kill the system, and you need high and low side gauges to service a/c properly.