[Shotimes] A/C R12 to R134a Conversion Questions

[Kevin & Cheryl Airth]

Heikki:
 Use whatever oil you are putting in the system to lubricate the o-rings.
Any other grease or oil is NOT recommended! The o-rings are different so be
sure and use the "Green" ones. They are available separately. Consider
changing the condenser too. Depending on the condition of it and where you
live in the country. R134a is not as efficient refrigerant as R12. What this
means is that to achieve equal cooling you need a larger condenser and
evaporator, which is what the factory did when they swapped to R134a. You
may never see this effect if the A/C is not loaded to maximum. I live in
South Louisiana and with the high temperatures and humidity the A/C system
is pretty much at maximum output in the summer.

 Yes I would order 94-95 A/C parts since these cars were factory filled with
R134a. Replace the liquid line and the filter/dryer/accumulator for sure.
This should be done anyway with the age and miles our cars are now at. If
not changing the compressor be very careful which oil is used. There are
compatibility issues if you are not aware. I would also do a good flush on
the remaining  components that are not changed. Mainly the evaporator and
condenser if you keep the old one. Check this place for good A/C info and
parts prices:
http://www.ackits.com/

Last: Consider how your system failed. Is it still working? The number one
problem with retro fits is not cleaning the debris out from the prior
failure. You can easily ruin all your new parts trying cheap it out!
Compressor is your main culprit!!
.
.



> I am currently collecting parts to repair/convert the A/C in my '93 MTX.
If
> someone has done this and is willing to help me out that would be greatly
> appreciated.  In searching for these parts I came across listings for the
> liquid line and the accumulator/drier.  In most systems I have seen there
is
> a component known as the filter/drier.  Is the filter in the SHO A/C
> incorporated in the accumulator/drier?  Or is there an independent filter
> somewhere that I also need to replace?  Since I am converting to R134a I
> will also need to replace any other parts which are R12 specific.  I read
a
> mention of replacing the orifice, which is part of the liquid line.  Do
the
> liquid lines with the R134a orifice directly replace the liquid lines with
> the R12 orifice?  i.e. Can I simply purchase a liquid line for a '94+ or a
> R134a liquid line for a '93- (if such exists)?  As for the
> accumulator/drier, is this specific to the type of freon that is being
used?
> Are there other parts that are suggested replacements?  I plan to replace
> the o-rings to ensure a good seal.  Can I leave the manifold/discharge as
it
> is?  If anyone has any info that may be helpful please let me know.
Thanks.
>
> -Heikki
> 'hA-kE