A/C Opinions

[sdstriper]

I couldn't answer that question. But I have been advised not to convert to 134 by more than one automotive service shop in the past and I have researched the info for myself. If you look into the fill requirements and the specifications it is not hard to understand why an alternative is recommended.



Here is a link with similar questions and answers, to include the post of TDR member mysteryman who is a retired Chrysler engineer with an affection for the 1st Gen CTD's.



https://www.turbodieselregister.com/forums/showthread.php?t=159701



I would suggest you look into the fill requirements and specifications for the different refrigerants. And I am not saying 134 will not cool, it will cool but it will be much, much harder on the compressor eventually wear out the compressor.

 

[Greenleaf]

That is how I buy it. There is not a local dealer. I think it's 7. 00 per 6oz can.



A "can" is 6oz unlike the others which are much larger. Probably due to the fact that the HC12 is much different.



6oz of HC12a is equal to 15 oz of HFC (134a) and equal to 17oz of CFC (R12)

Is there any problem mail ordering HC12A? I think to buy regular R12 you have to have some kind of license.

 

[TBowles]

Just a little FYI. Bought my Cummins out of a wrecked 250 with 130k miles on it and installed in my K30 in 1998 with a conversion to 134a at that time and the a/c is still working perfectly with over 250k now. I may very well be the exception to the rule but it is working for me.

 

[dpuckett]

TBowles- you're conversion used the GM AC system, didnt it? If so, it is slightly over- engineered, (unlike most Mopar stuff) so it probably worked well.



My mom had her 92 converted to 134a by a local shop, and it does a so-so job of cooling. IT works, but I'd guess a vent temp of around 60-65deg; nothing to pack a jacket for. Going to Springfield last spring, it kept the truck coolER, but not comfortable. I think I am going to go for the HC12a when the time comes. Just have to get the system flushed, and check the compressor oil. BTW- how does one do that? I had a hose back off the compressor (the one with the capillary tube), so now I KNOW there is no leftover 134a.



Greenleaf, I remember the hate replies posted about the propane. Even after pointing out the 200-300deg HIGHER flash point, people still poo-pooed you. Oh well, less demand, lower prices, which are just fine for me.



Daniel

 

[KOG]

R12, BTW, is still iin full production in India and China. The agreement to ban its use applied only to "developed" countries, just like the Kyoto Protocol to reduce CO2 emissions. I remember reading maybe three years ago that the second most valuable illegal import into the U. S. , following cocaine, was R12.

Politics and hypocrisy in full bloom.

 

[Greenleaf]

Greenleaf, I remember the hate replies posted about the propane. Even after pointing out the 200-300deg HIGHER flash point, people still poo-pooed you.

Daniel

Yes. I was poo-pooed. Maybe times and opinions have changed.

 

[KOG]

I just charged mine with HC12 a couple of days ago. I'll report on performance in a month or so after I've had time to see ti working under hot conditions.

 

[sdstriper]

No matter what other opinions are, I'll stick with a refrigerant that is compatible with any oil and doesn't work the compressor to death. Love to hear the outcome KOG, keep us posted.

 

[DSteimle]

yep, i'm about to do this on both of mine. the hc12 will be going in mine

 

[MXTMOPR]

Done, let the frost fly.

I tried this upon the recommendation of the A/C contractor that does our new homes. Holy cow!!!! This kicks butt and is compatible with R-12 and will turbocharge a R134 system in a newer vehicle. It cost $10. 00 per can at an A/C supply company. Start the truck, turn to Max A/C, connect to the low pressure side (near the firewall, blue cap). I used my R134 hose and guage, attached it to the port on the universal can tap and slowly turned in the screw which holds the "spike" or can tap. This depressed the schrader valve in the universal tap and gave me a way to slowly add the "Hot Shot". It took a few minutes to add it slowly as instructed on the can. Good to go!

 

[TBowles]

The only GM components used are the evaporator and dryer. The compressor and condenser are form the Dodge.