AC not cold
Burning Brakes
Joined: Sep 2001
Posts: 1,011
Likes: 0
From: Jupiter Florida
Re: AC not cold (marthpodi)
If the clutch on the compressor is not pulling in, the refrigerant has likely leaked down to the point where the pressure switch is not satisfied. Worn compressor seals are a common cause of leakage. Depending on the year of your car, you may have R134a refrigerant so you could recharge it yourself with some refrigerant and seal conditioner, might help a failing compressor last a little longer. R12 systems can only be recharged by licensed shops, have your wallet handy, or you could convert to R134a for $50 or so.
Advanced
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 53
Likes: 1
From: Los Altos CA
Re: AC not cold (marthpodi)
Rocketfinger is probably right about the refrigerant level being a little low. When that happens, the low pressure cut-out switch either leaves the A/C turned off or cycles it on just momentarily. That's what is happening with my '87 coupe. Because my system requires R-12, I either had to pay over $150 for service or learn how to do it myself and get the necessary EPA certification. It's not that hard--but your life is a lot easier if you have a newer model with R-134a.
Here are some useful websites in case you're interested in learning more:
http://www.aircondition.com
http://www.messagefriends.com/cgi-bi...zxs=ds&id=8091
And, if you're interested in properly retrofitting your car to R-134a, try http://www.ackits.com
I think you'll need to spend more than $50 on a retrofit since you'll most likely have to buy a new low and high pressure switch, orifice, possibly the accumulator, all the o-rings and the necessary tools to properly evacuate and fill the system.
Let me know if I can be of help.
[Modified by nel, 8:36 PM 5/29/2002]
[Modified by nel, 8:38 PM 5/29/2002]
Here are some useful websites in case you're interested in learning more:
http://www.aircondition.com
http://www.messagefriends.com/cgi-bi...zxs=ds&id=8091
And, if you're interested in properly retrofitting your car to R-134a, try http://www.ackits.com
I think you'll need to spend more than $50 on a retrofit since you'll most likely have to buy a new low and high pressure switch, orifice, possibly the accumulator, all the o-rings and the necessary tools to properly evacuate and fill the system.
Let me know if I can be of help.
[Modified by nel, 8:36 PM 5/29/2002]
[Modified by nel, 8:38 PM 5/29/2002]
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2001
Posts: 62,097
Likes: 1,724
From: Athens AL
C7 of the Year - Unmodified Finalist 2021
C4 of Year Finalist (performance mods) 2019
Re: AC not cold (nel)
either your refrigerant is empty or the compressor is going out, have the refridgerant refilled and see if that fixes it
the master cylinder has nothing to do with it
the master cylinder has nothing to do with it
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 5,556
Likes: 0
From: Jenison MI
Cruise-In VI Veteran
Cruise-In VII Veteran
St. Jude Donor '06
Re: AC not cold (vader86)
I just got a refill/convertion kit for 39.95 from autozone. it did not change a thing :mad so now on to the next thing... anyone know what that may be?
Burning Brakes
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 1,200
Likes: 0
Re: AC not cold (fsr402)
sounds like you need to see some body who has ac tools. if you just added a bunch of freon, the next step would be to remove it - pull a vacuum on the system and then add a measured amount. once you start guessing (after your first try) your gonna just make it worse. if you want to do the ac your self you will need (at least) a set of gauges, which will help if you are only low and you never let the system go flat. once the system is contaminated you will need more tools than the average doit your selfer is willing to buy.
Instructor
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 114
Likes: 0
From: Whittier CA
Re: AC not cold (marthpodi)
When my compressor went south, I didn't want to go with the 134 conversion. There is a product called Freeze12 and it is compatible with R-12 systems. The cost is about $12 per can. Completely empty, you will need about 2-3 cans. Make sure to pull a vacuum on the system first. With the temps being in the mid-90's here, it has worked fantastic!
Here is a link if it might help. http://www.freeze12.com
BTW, I am not affiliated with them in any way, just wanted to offer an option.
Here is a link if it might help. http://www.freeze12.com
BTW, I am not affiliated with them in any way, just wanted to offer an option.
