A/C is getting weak. Do I need to charge it immediately?
 

My A/C in my '86 is getting weaker and weaker. Just the other day, in ambient 85 degree temps, I needed to crack the window as the A/C wasn't cutting it.

The PO charged the system every two years. It has been about two years since it was last done.

I'd like to wait until Spring to charge it (no use letting it leak all winter). Will this hurt the system? Should I always keep it charged?

How much should I expect to pay?

The conventional wisdom is that the compressor should be run once per month to keep the seals fresh. Are you running R12 or R134?

I run it at least a few times a month, even in the winter.

It is R12. :(

It's not a good idea to run the compressor if the R12 is too low. I'm sure Jim Sims, or one of the a/c gurus on the board, could give you details. Also, if you have a pressure cut-off switch, the compressor won't run when the R12 gets too low.

Since it needs recharging every two years, it sounds like you still have the original hoses. Since cooler weather will be upon us soon, have you considered yanking out the old hoses and installing barrier hoses? I did the work myself, and though it's very messy, it's do-able.

Since you have an R-12 system I would recommend you have it serviced now. Note the operative word is serviced not just charged. Merely charging or topping off the system runs the risk of having the new charge just leak out again. Also, if your system pressure has reached ambient there is a high likelihood that water has entered the system; R-12 refrigerant and water produce an acid which will internally corrode the A/C components. If the system has been topped off every two years for a while I suspect there is leak that should be addressed plus that a new receiver/drier is in order. A reputable shop will do a leak check of the system and check the compresssor oil situation before adding additional R-12. Expect to pay around $200 plus the cost of the freon (R-12). The cost may be higher if the leak is difficult to find or a new hose or other component is needed. Jim

Re: A/C is getting weak. Do I need to charge it immediately?
 

Emission,
85 deg. ambient and you had to open your window a little?? God forbid! ;) I guess in our air-conditioned ruled summers here in the desert I revere fresh air. Pretty soon we'll be below the 100s in the day.

You bring up a good question on the A/C - mine is in the same boat - and it looks like Jim Sims just answered your question. I've been quoted about $75 for replenishing the Freon; but as Jim says it should be leak & oil checked, etc. Good luck.

Is this a task for a "Porsche" shop, or an "A/C" shop?

Definitely charge the system and run for a couple minutes each month, even when cold.

A nice, clean garage that services a/c should be able to do it. That's where I take mine. Last time I was there the guy didn't even charge me! I wouldn't go so far as to expect that...;)
Ryan

Emission: I had mine done at Lucas Auto Air in Van Nuys. There's a technician there named Ray Sanchez. He knows P-cars, and did a great job on mine.