Recharging AC

[goatfarmer]

90 T4R w/ auto trans. Starting to notice a slight loss in cold temperature lately and considering having the AC recharged but it currently has the original 'freon' and would like to know if any members have done same and if there are any issues with the replacement gas; i.e., damage to existing seals, etc. Any input, suggestions appreciated.

 

[77'911]

Ours is still relatively cool, but it could probably use a recharge though. My plan is to eventually convert the system over to R134a. I'm dealing with this now on our old BMW which is getting a new condensor and receiver/drier. At least the R134a is readily available. Best of luck with it.
regards

 

[goatfarmer]

The AC still maintains fairly cool temp so if recharging requires replacing AC components then I will likely leave well enough alone. Came across a couple bottles of R12 that I have had stored since I can't remember when, whether any good remains a question; although can feel there's some type of gas, or fluid in the can. May try a 'do it myselfer' if it comes down to needing to recharge; on the otherhand, if recharging is only a matter of replacing the old Freon with the new version then I will likely have a shop recharge??? Thank you for the input!!

 

[fourwd1]

If you want to change over to R134 you have to evacuate the system first.
Then install adapters on the two ports and fill with R134 and some PAG oil.
Of course if you find any leaks they have to be repaired first.
If you don't have a vacuum pump and gauge set let a shop do it.

 

[goatfarmer]

Barring any problems w/ AC components the cost of a couple adaptors, labor, and R134 may be in my price range. I have access to vacuum pump but I am going to get a shop estimate before attempting a 'do it myselfer'. I do appreciate the input, thanks to all!!!

 

[bagelsjustbagels]

Not to hijack this thread but...:spy:

Does anyone know if a 1995 3.0 auto's hard lines for A/C will be the same as a 1990 3.0 manual's hard a/c lines?

 

[nicnmike]

I'd like to fix my ac system pretty soon. Here's a youtube video I found on a r-134 conversion: Toyota R-12 to R-134A Retrofit Part 1 - YouTube . The product he used was this: EF Products 323 EFP - EF Products Polar-Air Air Conditioning Recharge Kit - Quadratec

I haven't done a ton of research yet, but maybe this could add to the discussion.

 

[2ndGen4runner4x4]

If you have some R12 then just top off your current A/C system. A can of R12 doesn't go bad.

 

[goatfarmer]

Thanks much for the link to the video, very helpful.

Checked with local auto repair shop who quoted a price of approx $300 to change from R12 to R134??

Not sure if the R134 AC manifold gauge kit will work with the old R12 Freon, checked HF catalog where they have the recharge kit going for around $100. I am waiting for a buddy to return from vacation, not sure if he still has the R12 AC manifold gauges; if so, then probly give the 'top off' a try. Again, thanks to all for the input. :cheers:

 

[KidVermicious]

O'Reillys has the adapter kits for $7, and big r134a recharge/oil kits with pressure dials on them - pardon my ignorance, but is that all I'd need to bring my AC back to life? The recharge kits have instructions for dummies and don't say if they pull vacuum or not, does anyone know?