Quote:
Originally Posted by kuehl
Oh, "illegally" converted. Hmmm. I did not know the adverb was important to the question.
But, you feel the major reason R134a is sold is to convert cars that had R12 and the R12 leaked out?
Truth be told I'm clueless, only guessing. as to why R-134a is moving off the shelves or even if it is in significant quanities.
What do you feel is the primary source for the R12 leak? (in context here, let's say the Porsche 911 and 930 models pre 1990).
As the EPA and SAE states, and you obliquely verify, the HUGE MASS of non-Porsche A/C systems of this era can be converted to R-134a using legacy R-12 hoses without leakage problems. Then must'n we ask ourselves what is different about our Porsche..?
But to answer your question....Over-pressurization of the components that make up our A/C systems, most likely the hoses.
So, with respect to the factory equipped R134a vehicles produced after 1992, that people are buying replacement refrigerant for, you think those cars that have leaks really don't have leaks.
Just a few moments ago I recommended the replacement of a 911 regulator as an inexpensive troubleshooting technique for battery charging problem. What might the average Joe do, in that context, if he felt the A/C wasn't performing up to snuff...?
I suspect that many of us "shade tree" mechanics would first check the sight glass for bubbles as the compressor is being cycled on and off....
Are you saying that the brick and mortar stores are positioning products close in such a way that the can of R134a is an "impulse" purchase?
Not bloody likely...but....
How many of us who lived and drove before the conversion, pre-92, remember the experience of having really COLD airflow coming from the system vents. Wasn't at about this same time that computer controlled automatic A/Cs,a and "climate control" systems, started becoming more prevalent..?
All these new systems MODERATE(***) the system airflow, as the cabin atmosphere gets closer to the temperature setpoint. How many of our generation have an expectation of cold system airflow continuously.
Can we call you a Shade Tree Mechanic for now on?
|
On behalf of the many of us raised on a working farm with the responsibility during the off season of maintaiining/repairing/overhauling the equipment required, Farmall, Deere, Allis Chamlers, Ford Ferguson, etc, (Damn, can't remember the haybaler {belt driven by the tractor flywheel} or the combine brand names), or in even earlier times the leather harness for the mules, I'd be honored to be referred to as a "Shade Tree" mechanic.
*** Look at how many "here" are proud of 34F vent temperatures, rate their A/C system capability accordingly. Not today, no longer. Most systems today incorporate a temperature setpoint and only go WOT with the system cooling capability with extreme temperature, human comfort excursions. HOT sunlight (radiation sensor) High external temperatures (OAT sensor). In point of fact today's A/C systems, 996/997 inclusive, seem more designed to prevent driver/passenger discomfort arising from system airflow being TOO COLD, to HIGH in velocity, and TOO narrowly focussed.
To that end both my Lexus and 996 will moderate the system parameters as the cabin atmosphere gets closer and closer to my setpoint. System airflow within only a few degrees below the setpoint, low(er) blower speeds, wider dispersion of system airflow, dash, footwell, AND windshield outflow.
Makes one wonder why anyone would want horribly discomforting COLD, 34F airflow directed mostly to the face and upper body. But take an air-cooled engine Porsche, August, Houston, BLACK, DARK interior, yesterdays windshield & window glass, no glass tinting, little to no sound(thermal) insulation...you NEED 34F airflow.
There are many "sides" to the human comfort equation...some more important than others depending on our environment of the moment.