R-12 AC replacements?
Thread Starter
6th Gear
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
From: cumming ga
R-12 AC replacements?
Age old problem; has anyone used, or heard of R-12 alternatives to re-charge AC systems in a C3? Products like Duracool, or Freeze 12? I expect to have to change the fittings to R134a, but these types of products seemed a better choice.
Race Director
Joined: Apr 1999
Posts: 15,135
Likes: 477
From: NM
Re: R-12 AC replacements? (watchmegoby)
Check this EPA page for what is acceptable:
http://www.epa.gov/spdpublc/snap/ref.../macssubs.html
tom...
http://www.epa.gov/spdpublc/snap/ref.../macssubs.html
tom...
Race Director
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 14,376
Likes: 1
From: Check this riff........
Re: R-12 AC replacements? (watchmegoby)
I am not sure if I just got lucky but if your talking about the ac compressor on the c-3s. The one that looks like it came off an abrahms m1-a1 tank. They convert to 134a very well. Remember to use 75% of listed r-12 capacity and you will be impressed by the results. I have had crappy luck with newer r-12 systems, but the older ones seem to convert great. The adavantage of the 134a, of course, is the availability and low cost. Most of the alternatives, such as freeze 12, require full licences to purchase. Also beware of some companies that sell propane for use in an ac system but call it something else.
good luck!
--marc
good luck!
--marc
Safety Car
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 4,660
Likes: 3
From: South Central Louisiana
St. Jude Contributor
Re: R-12 AC replacements? (BigBadOrange)
Freeze 12 is the only automtive drop in relacement I know of, I am thinking of trying some in my Father in Laws 77. I have the liscense.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Feb 2000
Posts: 7,032
Likes: 2
From: Newburgh NY
Re: R-12 AC replacements? (watchmegoby)
I (and others) replaced the R12 with R134 and got good results. You need to have the system fully evacuated and as mentioned, only fill to approx. 75-80% capacity and use the correct oil. We also just put the new fittings on the compressor.
The only other problem would be leaks. R134 is more prone to leaking them R12. IF the system is solid though, you should be fine.
The only other problem would be leaks. R134 is more prone to leaking them R12. IF the system is solid though, you should be fine.
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Le Mans Master
Joined: Sep 2000
Posts: 5,635
Likes: 4
From: Orlando Floriduh
Re: R-12 AC replacements? (78Vette-SA)
The problem with replacement is that they are "blended" refrigerants. Shops will not work on anything except R12 or R134a. Also if you have a small leak, one of the components will leak first and you cannot top them off because the blend is now incorrect. My 69 stock system works great with R134a.
