Darien

Not sure if it's been asked, but how can I tell if my shark was converted to 134? I've looked trough all the PO's receipts and can't find a definitive answer. It's the right time in Vegas to top her off with freon, but I need to know which stuff to buy.

borland

We've entered the age of rapid global warming. R-134a is a green house gas. While R-12 is an ozone depleater.

You should find the leak(s), and repair them only after the system refrigerant has been recovered by a professional.

A professional will know what type refrigerant you have based on the test/fill fittings. Converted cars should have unremoveable adapters.

the flyin' scotsman

My car was changed to R-134a and I believe the ports are bigger.

joejoe

A 134 system will have different (larger) ports for high/low pressure. They will also be of the quick release type, not the screw on type of the r12 system. For my use I went online and got a 609 certification to buy freon. Locally I found 3 recovery units (Robin air) for about $200. Bought flush system, dyes, leak detector (black light) and new type O rings and do mine myself. This was after spending way too much at a/c shops that did more damage than good. I went through both my '86.5 and '81 2 years ago and have not had to service since. (Feel kinda foolish with 90lb r12 now)

ZEUS+

borland covered it well. On a few occasions I ran into a few vehicles that were converted and did not have the tell tale signs. I use a refrigerant identifier when unsure. A good shop will have one.

ROG100

Our cars were designed to use R12 (apart from 93 +) so I stick with the readily available R12.
You need a cert to buy it but it is available at all your fav auto shops.

Darien

That's what I needed to know, now where do I get my certification or would you like to unload some of your extra r12?

the flyin' scotsman

Not outside the USA.

dr bob

This a bit ironic, since the "Montreal Accord" set the standards for chloroflourocarbon refrigerant use, forcing the phase-out of its use in the complying countries. There weren't that many countries, but since many wanted to seel cars into the US they had to abide by the new standard. I do appreciate that Quebec is a kindom unto itself, at least relative to wild-west non-French-speaking Alberta. You guys still pull down the French-langauge traffic signs?

the flyin' scotsman

Bob.........although I have lived in Alberta for 25 years I remain somewhat Europen both by birth and from my career which took me to SW of Paris, France for an extensive period so yes very ironic.

As to Quebec being a kingdom I would suggest not; I've lived and travelled internationally extensively and if I were to choose a city Montreal would be my #1 pick.

To the subject matter, I just want my a/c to work.............Mr. Lomas can you fit me in?

bronto

Do you do this for other 928'ers? I don't need it now, but the PO said he has to recharge it often. I take frequent trips to your area...

SharkSkin

BTW the R134 adapters are not always permanent. I decided to go back to R12 and the 134 adaptors just unscrewed. YMMV.

Point being, I don't think you can tell for sure by looking at the fittings. Best to have a tech look at it -- I'd be surprised if they charged you just to tell you R134/R12.

joejoe

Darien, what I have are 30lb cylinders. I think I have a few cans left from purchase from dr bob a few years ago (when went to sharktoberfest).

Bronto, could always try. I have not worked on others cars other than brothers old pontiac, and '70 corvette, and one 134 system on my nephews newer blazer.The corvette taught me that an old system really needs to be gone through (especially if non working for a long time as this was) as high pressure hose blew, (replaced/recharged) low pressure blew (again replace/recharge) and for a finally the rear seal on compressor. Finally got his done though. The main point is to find the leak, repair and charge. I have the dyes to do this.

Sharkskin is correct, while the new fittings are supposed to be brazed to original fittings (some use j/b weld) many are not and screw off easily.

IcemanG17

Darien
I'm sure a local A/C shop could test it for a minimal charge.......you want R12.....bottom line is our A/C systems were designed for it and it works really well.......bummer is its pricey once it leaks out... :>( Unless you live close to a certain Norcal928er who has all the A/C equipment and R12 for $10 a pound....

SteveG

Go here, http://www.epatest.com/e_609cert.html

I don't know of any shop that is going to carry both systems, if only b/c all hoses, etc. must be segregated, nevermind that one won't fit the other, it is just a PIA. OK, I know one, in Brooklyn. Good luck.