Remember reading a post about converting 944 AC system from R12 to R134a recently, but can't find it now... Anyway, I'm curious to get feedback from anyone who has tried a conversion. What kind of hassle was it to do, and most importantly, how does it perform? Since my original compressor is shot I was thinking that now would be a good time to convert, but I haven't talked to anyone who's done it.. Thoughts?

Thanks again,

-3C-
'84 944NA

 

There's an absolute ton of information on this subject on the Email list (924/944/968)... do a search there and grab a comfy seat

Good Luck!

 

Griffiths.com

 

The conversion from R12 to R134A is very simple. Just get a service carried out and replace the R12 with R134A. The important thing is to get the system serviced and all repairs carried out before you install the new stuff and it leaks out. Receiver dryer should also be replaced, regardless. Now one word of caution. I have heard via Porsche that pre 1985 models of Porsches need some extra care because of materials used in the sealing of the system. This is why a pressure check and proper service and replacement of the receiver dryer is very important.
Tabor has given you the link to Griffiths. They offer this rotary compressor option.
Personally, I would remove the aircon, save weight, remove excess parts which break and drive with the windows down.
Ciao,
Adrian
911C4
944

 

I neglected to mention you have to change the refridgerant oil as well. This data is also on one of the other boards as well. same question.
Now what you need to find out exactly what you have to do for each model year and model type you should read Porsche Technical Service Bulletin
Retrofitting R12 A/C System to R134
Group
8
Model
All
Part Identifier
8717
Number
9501
December 19, 1995

There are some specific requirements for certainmodels of the early years including pre 1985.5 944s.
I highly recommend you get yourself a copy of this TSB. For 19,95 you can subscribe to www.alladata.com and all this is on this site. Just subscribe for your model and off you go. Believe me is money well spent,
Ciao,
Adrian
911C4
944

 

Adrian, Skip, Tabor,

Thanks for the info (5 stars for ya all). I just signed up on the email list so I'll look through that when I get some time. I checked out Griffin's site and I'll price a compressor there, and I'll definitely check out the TSB's. Hopefully, by the time I decide what to do about the AC it'll be cold enough here for me to postpone it for another year.

 

...er I mean "Griffith's site" Griffin was the name of a friend of mine, who didn't have a site last I knew... Sheeessh! Time for bed.