Converting Air Conditioner Conversion (Freon)
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Converting Air Conditioner Conversion (Freon)
My 71 air conditioner is running on the original freon system. What all is envolved with converting to the new a/c coolant? Do any new parts have to be inistalled? What is a "ball park" figure for the cost to conversion?
Thanks!
Thanks!
Racer
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 484
Likes: 0
From: McComb Ms.
at minimum you will have to change compressor and dryer. then the rest of the system flushed, alot of technicians will suggest replacing the condensor coil,that's the coil in front of your radiator 
if i were you i would stick with freon since now atleast in my area you can find it reasonably priced compared to 10 yrs ago. you may have to search a/c specialists to get a decent price but thier are people who buy it in bulk and its much cheaper that way than supposedly the 1lb. cans. you may not be able to find it in your area but i now regret swapping my truck over after finding this out just last summer
if i were you i would stick with freon since now atleast in my area you can find it reasonably priced compared to 10 yrs ago. you may have to search a/c specialists to get a decent price but thier are people who buy it in bulk and its much cheaper that way than supposedly the 1lb. cans. you may not be able to find it in your area but i now regret swapping my truck over after finding this out just last summer
Le Mans Master
Joined: Feb 2000
Posts: 7,032
Likes: 2
From: Newburgh NY
I just changed the fittings, vacuumed out the entire system, reloaded with oil and R134. Blew ice cold and lasted several seasons until I sold it. Probably still blowing cold.
Maybe not what some would recommend, but it was cheap and worked. I talked to many others who did the same thing with no problems.
Maybe not what some would recommend, but it was cheap and worked. I talked to many others who did the same thing with no problems.
Racer
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 382
Likes: 23
From: Acworth, GA
Do a search on my username.....I did a decently detailed post on what I did to make mine work....all for around $350......If once you've read that you need more help...pm me and i'll answer any questions you might have.....
Race Director
Joined: Sep 2001
Posts: 10,560
Likes: 439
From: Wellington, FL
St. Jude Donor '11 thru '25
I don't believe there is any need to change the compressor. Just the oil in it has to be drained and replaced with that compatible with 134A refrigerant. I would also suggest changing the hoses and of course, the dryer along with the other recommendations above. 
Racer
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 382
Likes: 24
From: Uxbridge Ontario
If the system is in good shape use a product called Duracool. It has the same cooling efficience as the orginal Freon, it is eviromental safe, the molecules are larger so they don't leak out as much. All that is required is a good vacum of the system then fill with Duracool. I had mine done last year, didn't change anything and it is as cold as the orginal. Cost me $86 for labour and $50 in parts. Check their website http://www.duracool.com/
Drifting
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 1,562
Likes: 2
From: Spring Texas
For a 71, you should flush the entire system. The type of oil used with r12 is not compatible with the r134 refrigerant and according to the AC gurus a trace of the old oil can lead to serious issues. Change the fittings. Replacing hoses and O ring seals is highly recommended. Change the drier. Have your POA valve recalibrated for 134 (you can do it yourself).
Drifting
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 1,629
Likes: 4
From: Somers CT
Why do you want to change it and open up a can of worms? If it's working OK I'd leave it alone, if not, fix it and reinstall R-12. It's widely available and the local A/C guy told me last summer the cost is actually coming down because nobody uses it any more.
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Safety Car
Joined: Oct 1999
Posts: 4,101
Likes: 10
From: NorCal
I just changed the fittings, vacuumed out the entire system, reloaded with oil and R134. Blew ice cold and lasted several seasons until I sold it. Probably still blowing cold.
Maybe not what some would recommend, but it was cheap and worked. I talked to many others who did the same thing with no problems.
Maybe not what some would recommend, but it was cheap and worked. I talked to many others who did the same thing with no problems.
Hans
