is it r-12 or 134?
 

how can i tell if my AC system has been converted to 134.


thanks, thebern

It should have a sticker saying so, and the fittings where you put in the 134 should be 134 fittings, which are much larger than the r-12 fittings.

An original R12 system will have simple 1/4" inverted flare fittings. A 134 system will have quick connect fitting adapters that look a little like quick connect fittings like are used on air tools and such.

That said, there is so much bootleg conversion of systems without putting on the correct fittings that the ONLY way you will know what is in the system is to go to an auto a/c shop and have them check it with a refrigerant identifier.

I don't know what your goal is, but if the system is not working and you plan on charging it, and you don't have complete history of the a/c system, you should have it identified. These days ANYTHING could be in the system regardless of the fittings. It's a really pathetic situation.

Good luck,

PGJ56,

Yes it SHOULD have a sticker and conversion fittings, but there are zillions of systems that have hydrocarbons, blends, sealants and who knows what in them. If there is a sticker that's great, but if there isn't one there is still a good possibility that there is something besides R12 in there.

People have no idea what grief and problems that they are causing the a/c repair people with all the junk refrigerants and sealants that they are putting in their systems.

This junk is contaminating recovered refrigerant, clogging up expensive recovery equipment and just making general H$!! for those in the business.

It has gotten so bad, that most shops put their seal on the ports after service. If that seal is broken when the car returns, they will not do ANYTHING to the system before analyzing it again with their Refrigerant Identifier.

Have a great day,