C3 R12 or convert 134a
Thread Starter
5th Gear
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
C3 R12 or convert 134a
i have a stock '73 driver 350ci auto numbers match with ac.
mechanic says leak on back end of compressor, so new compressor
or, he will convert to 134a for $150
i have 6 cans of r12
do i convert to 134a?
or try to keep stock r12?
i know this must have been written about forever, but are you 134a converts happy?
is it just a kit for the compressor? nothing else?
thanks in advance
mechanic says leak on back end of compressor, so new compressor
or, he will convert to 134a for $150
i have 6 cans of r12
do i convert to 134a?
or try to keep stock r12?
i know this must have been written about forever, but are you 134a converts happy?
is it just a kit for the compressor? nothing else?
thanks in advance
Racer
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 497
Likes: 0
From: Streator Illinois
Not quite that simple. You can shortcut the conversion but it is said the best way is to also change out "O" rings, flush everything because R12 oil is not compatible with 134a, maybe change out dryer, etc. I'm sure others know more about it than I.
Don't understand the "or" part. If rear seal is leaking, it will have to be fixed or a new compressor installed regardless whether you convert or not.
If you use the search function at the top of screen, you will find lots of threads that discuss this. I think most guys who have done the conversion are happy with it. You can always sell your R12.
Terry
Don't understand the "or" part. If rear seal is leaking, it will have to be fixed or a new compressor installed regardless whether you convert or not.
If you use the search function at the top of screen, you will find lots of threads that discuss this. I think most guys who have done the conversion are happy with it. You can always sell your R12.
Terry
Thread Starter
5th Gear
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
Followup R12 to 134a
I went ahead and converted to 134a and was pleased. It was over 100deg outside temp and ac vent blowing 60deg f with the 134a with stock 1973 system.
I noted in two lexus's i was also driving, a 2005 rx330suv and a 2008 is350, that their ac vents only blew 50deg with the same 100+ outside temp.
thanks for the comments
I noted in two lexus's i was also driving, a 2005 rx330suv and a 2008 is350, that their ac vents only blew 50deg with the same 100+ outside temp.
thanks for the comments
Safety Car
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 3,685
Likes: 202
From: Waterford Mi
I was told to stay with the R12 if you can. The 73 was the first year that GM used the VIR valve and that it would not work well with R134.
I know others have changed and are happy with it so I do not know how true the statement is.
I had to totally rebuild my system last year so I tossed everything for a updated system. The only thing I did not change is the evaporator.
New system install
I know others have changed and are happy with it so I do not know how true the statement is.
I had to totally rebuild my system last year so I tossed everything for a updated system. The only thing I did not change is the evaporator.
New system install
Drifting
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 1,629
Likes: 4
From: Somers CT
R12 is readily available and was designed to work in the system you have.
