Air Conditioning

[harborman]

My system still works but not as cold as it should be. Can I just get it recharged with the R12? I read all the posts below.

[psychII]

I wouldn't just recharge unless the system is empty. But even before then, find and fix the leak.

You've got to make sure the hvac vacuum system and heater valve are operating for max efficiency.

[kuehl]

Look a the site glass on the drier when the compressor clutch is engaged.
No refrigerant flow you know your empty or have other problems. Bubbles your low.

Yes, you can still use R12 or convert to R134a if it has not been done so already.

For a few reasonable bucks you can probably find a tech who will throw a set of gauges on your car and advise you is the system pressures are good, for a few bucks more he can quote you repair costs and you can make the decision. He may even have a can of refrigerant and some ac oil he top it off for you. If you have a leak though your gonna lose it. Common leak points are hoses at the compressor or the compressor shaft seal or case seals, expansion valve.

There are plenty of good threads on the Shark board and other forums for DIY... however its a learning experience and you may find yourself buying tools and equipment you will use once every few years.

Don't forget to verify your fresh air flap is closing.

PM if you need more help.

[harborman]

Originally Posted by kuehl

Look a the site glass on the drier when the compressor clutch is engaged.
No refrigerant flow you know your empty or have other problems. Bubbles your low.

Yes, you can still use R12 or convert to R134a if it has not been done so already.

For a few reasonable bucks you can probably find a tech who will throw a set of gauges on your car and advise you is the system pressures are good, for a few bucks more he can quote you repair costs and you can make the decision. He may even have a can of refrigerant and some ac oil he top it off for you. If you have a leak though your gonna lose it. Common leak points are hoses at the compressor or the compressor shaft seal or case seals, expansion valve.

There are plenty of good threads on the Shark board and other forums for DIY... however its a learning experience and you may find yourself buying tools and equipment you will use once every few years.

Don't forget to verify your fresh air flap is closing.

PM if you need more help.

Thanks. Where is the "fresh air flap" I am getting hot air from the center vent at times. I will check the site glass as you mentioned.

[kuehl]

The 'fresh air flap'; or recirculating (no outside air mixing with inside air) a/c air feature is located on the RH side (passenger) side. Its controlled by climate control lever and it gets its power from a vacuum actuator. Fairly easy to test and rather easy fix if there is a failure; I've replace it on my 84s and 89s4 years ago:

Here is a relatively good link or some shark bait as we say:
Air Recirculation Control

book mark this fishing hole:

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