Quote:
Originally Posted by LarryBible
I have done 134 conversions at all different levels from a simple addition of oil, adapter fittings, evac and charge, all the way to changing hoses, condensors, flushing, filter drier, Ester or PAG, yada, yada, yada.
Regardless of the method, the statistics show that converted systems, regardless of how much work or parts were thrown at it, are on the average, short lived.
In the past I converted lots of R12 systems to 134. I have not seen very many of them last for the long term.
The average life of even an expensive 134 conversion was a couple of years.
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Have also become a victim of those stats. Also avoid rebuilt compressors. Mine never worked properly at all right from the start after having it installed with new drier, expansion valve. Next came a new compressor. Cooled remarkably well for a year: 30's-40's, even on 134a. Now in it's second year no longer cools well: 50's-60's and up. Quite tellingly the shop i take it to only gives 6 month warranties on compressors installed into MBs while it gives 1 year on all other cars further backing LarryBible's observations.
Hydrocarbons have the following advantages:
1.Cool as well as R12
2.Won't slam your compressor like 134a does when you turn on ac (visibly less impact on engine rpm) meaning less wear on compressor and less fuel consumption.
3. Won't form corrosive stuff eating away ac innards
4. Works with all oils.
5. Wont leak out as readily.
6. Cheaper -you also need less of it.
Disadvantages:
flammable- only a (mostly theoretical) concern because car ac's haven't been designed with that aspect in mind.
DIY only, in areas where it's not sold and installed by shops.