[DeTomaso] A/C conversion

[MikeLDrew at aol.com]

In a message dated 4/19/08 10 01 0, wdemelo at cogeco.ca writes:


> I have a bone stock A/C system that I need get running. Obviously, I need 
> to replace the compressor with a 134a type. 
> 
>>>Actually, no.   The simplest thing to do is just replace the stock 
compressor with a rotary unit and associated bracket, but stick with the R12 formula. 
  Although R12 is no longer in production, A/C shops are amply stocked with 
acceptable substitutes, and it is probably cheaper and easier than switching 
the whole system over to R134.


> Anything else I need to order? Are the vendors priced similarly? Will my 
> stock condenser and dryer work?
> 
If you stick with R12, yes.   I would bring your car as-is to an A/C shop and 
have them evaluate the condition of your condenser.   Exhaust fumes attack 
them, and many of them have fins that have literally turned to powder, and thus 
they are ineffective.   Assuming yours is in decent shape, you should replace 
all the hoses, and the dryer, along with the compresser.   But your evaporator 
under the dash, and condenser should be fine.   Oh, you might want to change 
the expansion valve too; talk to the A/C shop about this.

You can do all the nuts-and-bolts work yourself, then just have the shop 
perform a leak check prior to charging.

I think most of the vendors are similarly priced on the parts....

Mike



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