[Shotimes] More A/C questions!

[Leigh Smith]

As far as efficiency there is a loss of efficiency with the R134. Enough 
so that Ford and others put larger condensors on the R134 cars, and that 
is the reason the official Ford R12 to 134 conversion kit cost is so 
high. But for only a 10-15% BTU difference, I have been told you won't 
notice it except in Arizona or when it is 100+F outside!
The pressures do run a little higher. It also might be a little warmer 
at idle (low pressures/airflow).
There is a Smart Variable orifice valve available (VOV) that makes up 
for the difference at idle. Only $20. Do a web search, you'll find it. I 
used it in my R134'd 89 for 2 years, and it was really cold,  42F at the 
vent, even at idle, with the original "too small" condensor!!

Leigh


Steve Tatro wrote:

>Okay, here's my plan.
>
>Since my SHO is officially an old piece of garbage, and it's trade-in value
>(based on KBB, Edmunds, etc.) is now under $1000, I want to fix my a/c
>compressor as cheaply as possible.
>
>So, I'm going to have the old R-12 evacuated, remove/replace the compressor
>and clutch, convert the fittings to the new R-134a style, and refill the
>system.
>
>Can anybody give me a reason NOT to do this?  I know the system can't be as
>efficient, but I'm not about to dump $1500 into it.  Sorry if you don't like
>me now ;^)
>
>Is there any possible damage this can cause?  I have friend who's taking
>hands-on car shop classes, and when they needed to replace the compressor on
>an old S-10, this is exactly what they did.  I'm not saying it's the best
>way, but will it work and not cause any further damage?
>
>Thanks as always,
>
>Steve Tatro
>Red/Black '93 with 170k miles
>Cincinnati, Ohio
>
>P.S.  PFish, does your air work?  If so, it may be cost-effective for me to
>just buy your car.  I'd probably forget which one is which though ;^)
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