raypilot65

Excellent write up Jeff. Just curious though. All those tools and the recovery machine must have cost a fortune. How does it compare to having someone install the seals?

62Jeff

I just took a quick tally and I've got about $750 in all of the tools and the recovery machine used in the writeup. The recovery machine was purchased used for cheap and then supplemented with new-in-the-box sealed R12 recovery tank as well as a new filter assembly.

However, I did not purchase the tools in support of a seal replacement. When I purchased my 65, it came with 60 lbs of R12 waiting to be used.

This 65 is one of 4 classic cars I own that use R12, the other 3 cars all needing some level of A/C repair.

I wanted to learn how to do all this myself so that I could be self-sufficient, and be able to diagnose and repair cars in my collection without having to rely on others. So I purchased equipment necessary to evacuate and recharge the system, and then also bought the tools necessary for a seal replacement. I will need other tools if I actually try to rebuild the internals of a compressor myself.

All of that having been said, I have no idea what it would have cost to have the A/C seal repaired and the system charged at a shop, but the sense of accomplishment I get from driving the car with working A/C that I fixed myself, is huge.

Jeff

raypilot65

Well worth it if you've got 4 classics with air to work on plus the freon.

csysman

You make it look simple .... Very nice write up and detail

GMBshootingclubM60

Is it still possible to get R12 if you have the epa certicication?

I guess there are 'replacement' refrigerants if R12 isn't available.

I can't afford a trip to Mexico...

Jim Little

Great presentation Jeff, very informative. I have a simple question that you can probably answer. I am restoring a '65 with A/C. The NCRS Technical Manual says the the Evaporator Housing has a Harrison Foil Sticker which reads: EBA-70-65B. But, it doesn't say where on the Evaporator housing the sticker is located. Any idea "where" on the housing it goes?
Thanks. Jim

domenic tallarita

Good job,
This is my 1st post and it was nice to look at your pics.
you certainly make it look easy and explain each pic wonderfully.
I specialize in A-6 and have had a number of classic air
re-seals come thru my shop.
I get into the gut pac and ring them with the metal ring they used from 63 to 75.
Some parts cannot be found (metal rings & thrust spacers).
The corvette piston is dished and the passenger piston is a flat top.
A gut pac apart in the pic.
I have had rebuilds sent here for inspection that only had O-rings and the front seal replaced and the gut pac with bearings, spacers,
rings, and wear not checked. I test em with over 300 lbs nitrogen for leaks and there go's a few days.

DOM

62Jeff

My apologies, I just saw these posts.

Yes R-12 is still available, e-bay is a common source I've come across.

Jim, I'm sorry but I am unaware of the correct location for the Harrison foil sticker.

Dom, thank you for the kind words, I'm pleased when someone who does A/C repair as a business, feels my amateur-based instructions are worthy of note.

I also noticed you were able to Attach photos to your post, without also having to be a paying member. This is an AWESOME improvement for the forum, finally everyone can include photos without having to use PhotoBucket or other hosting services.

DZVette

Here is Jeff's excellent write-up in PDF version. I am posting it with Jeff's permission.
Download the file for your reference collection.
Dave Z

62Jeff

Thank you Dave, I appreciate your efforts.

I think I'll ask the moderators to remove this is a Sticky now, as there are too many stickies on the forum these days.

JohnZ

Outstanding!