Question:
I've got this older corvette and the air conditioner continually looses
freon.My question is if I have to start replacing parts [compressor-dryer
etc.] would it pay me to switch to the new freon ? I only ask because I
don't know much about the new feron and want to be able to make an informed
choice
Answer:
It's a very simple matter to change most GM systems over to R-134a,
which is the standard refrigerant used now in all automotive
installations.
You'll need to replace the compressor, if as you say it's failing.
You'll also need to use the correct, ester oil in the system, and
replace the receiver/dryer or accumulator. If your system uses an
orifice tube you'll get best results if you replace the orifice tube
with one that is callibrated for R-134a -- though this is not absolutely
necessary.
If your car has a VIR assembly, I'm not sure what the proper procedure
is for that. Maybe someone else on this website could fill us all in
on that.
It would be a good idea to flush the system, especially if you may have
metal filings in it from the compressor. This is especially true if
your car uses the R4 (short, with body diameter larger than the size of
the pulley), since they tend to do that. The A6 compressor (long, with
smaller diameter body) is more reliable.
