AC Conversion - Toyota 4Runner Forum

the_dingman · 07-15-2010, 10:47 PM

I searched, and didn't find any results...

Has anyone done an AC conversion on their 4Runner? I've got a 1st gen without a working AC system, and I'd like to get it working... looking for someone with experience that can tell me what's all required and how well it worked.

rustyrazor · 07-16-2010, 09:16 AM

I assume your system is currently R12. I'd try getting one of the R12 replacement refregerants. A quick google search came up with something called freeze 12.

First you want to find out why the system stopped working. If the repairs are going to be expensive than paying for the conversion might be worth while.

Don't let anyone put R416 in your car. My A/C quit workiny when toyota did the headgasket and then I went to get the A/C checked they said that at some point someone converted it to R416 and they can't service the thing because R416 has butane in it and is flammable! At that point I just resigned myself to rolling down the windows and sweating it out.

fourwd1 · 07-17-2010, 12:10 AM

Are you talking about converting an old R12 system to R134?
Been there done that.
Worked great for about 3 yrs, then the front seal on the compressor blew out.
Something I expected would happen sooner or later due to the increased operating pressure of the R134. Considering the compressor was already close to 25 yrs old, no big deal.

Buck87 · 07-17-2010, 12:59 PM

Just converted my r12 to r134 works ok I'm happy with it. My mechanic is awsome a real McGyver. After determining that every thing was working correctly he had me go to Kraigens and get the conversion kit that consisted basically of 2 new brass adapter fittings for recharging the system with r134 (see the picture). So here's the thing, he only recharged the system 80% because the r134 works at higher pressure (I think that is due to a higher boiling point), so now the system is about 20% less efficient and only works well when the truck is moving. I think that I am going to install a ford electric fan and some fillers in between the radiator and the condenser to improve air flow.
AC Conversion-dsc00504-jpg

Buck87 · 07-17-2010, 01:04 PM

Been there done that.
Worked great for about 3 yrs, then the front seal on the compressor blew out.
[/QUOTE]

Did you replace the compressor? With what kind?

the_dingman · 07-17-2010, 11:31 PM

I am looking to change from R-12 to something else... Or seeking a source of R-12 to recharge the system if I can find it anywhere. My AC doesn't work, and I'd like it to, but on the cheap and easy.

Some conversion kits seem to include replacement gaskets and seals, do I need to change them?

slacker · 07-17-2010, 11:52 PM

you need to change it over to 134a .. dont cheep out and do it right .. the new kit will include silicone orings , the fittings you seem to have done already?? and a new reciever dryer .. up here RE & RE is about $400.00 + the new freon .. if done right you should have years and years of problem free cold air

.

the_dingman · 07-21-2010, 09:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by slacker

you need to change it over to 134a .. dont cheep out and do it right .. the new kit will include silicone orings , the fittings you seem to have done already?? and a new reciever dryer .. up here RE & RE is about $400.00 + the new freon .. if done right you should have years and years of problem free cold air

.

For $400 bucks I'll stick with rolling down the back window to keep me cool.

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