Buck.

Since I started trailering my 993 to autocrosses and track events I haven't run the AC for over a year. I tested it today and it needs to be recharged. I have 2 questions.

- Do I need to take it to a P dealer or can I get it charged at any competent shop?

- I imagine the seals dried out since it hasn't been run for a while. Will the seals re-hydrate when I get it recharged or will it leak down quickly?

Thanks,

Buck

STLPCA

Buck
The key word is "competent." The 993 AC system is charged by quantity (oil & R134a), not pressure level. Done right, it requires a vacumn purge & refill. If quantity/pressure is either too high/too low it will not operate properly. Any "competent" AC shop should be up to that task.

However, if seals may/are bad I'd go to the P dealer (or competent P car repair shop) since getting to AC components may require disassembly I wouldn't entrust to just anyone. Don't know your year, but per my shop manual there were changes in the AC system from '95 to '96+ cars (e.g., no sight glass in later cars, some different components).

BTW, IMO recharging is not a DIY job. Please don't ask how I know, but I've got a spare can of R134a & a pressure guage if you need them.

Last, there's more stuff in the Rennlist 993/996 archives - a great resource & 1st stop for research.

Good luck,