A/C Recharge

[kknobl]

Well, it should be warm here eventually...

So I need to think about getting the AC back in my 1993 Grand Prix. I was messing around with it the other night, and found that the RPMs will run a little higher with the A/C button pressed (normal) so I know the system itself is engaging. However, no cold air comes out, so it seems like a recharge is needed.

I'm reasonably sure they were still using Freon in 1993s. If I take it to Pep Boys or somewhere similar to have the A/C recharged, how much is it going to cost me approximately? Also, would they make me convert it to the R-134, and if so how much might that cost?

Thanks,
Kevin

[GTP Dad]

You will have to change it to R134 due to the fact that R12 is no longer available or is so expensive that you couldn't afford it. If you have it repaired you will spend in the $150 range especially if the system is currently engaging and just needs recharged. Of course if you need parts that can drive the cost up exponentially! The system will need to be evacuated of the R12 and then a vacuum pulled to check for leaks. If the systems holds vacuum they will recharge with 85% of the R12 charge and it should work very well. Just make sure you choose a good shop and get an estimate before signing a repair order. You can get taken on this type of repair.

[kknobl]

Originally Posted by GTP Dad

You will have to change it to R134 due to the fact that R12 is no longer available or is so expensive that you couldn't afford it. If you have it repaired you will spend in the $150 range especially if the system is currently engaging and just needs recharged. Of course if you need parts that can drive the cost up exponentially! The system will need to be evacuated of the R12 and then a vacuum pulled to check for leaks. If the systems holds vacuum they will recharge with 85% of the R12 charge and it should work very well. Just make sure you choose a good shop and get an estimate before signing a repair order. You can get taken on this type of repair.

Thanks for the info. Much appreciated.

Kevin

[richtazz]

Check the two access ports to see if the car has already been converted. If they are threaded fittings, it's still R-12, if they have quick connect type fittings (similar to those used on a garage air compressor) then it's already been converted. You can buy a conversion kit (make sure you get one with a guage) and do it yourself. It's best to take the car to a shop and have the system evacuated of all residual R-12 (don't release it into the atmosphere) and vacuumed down to negative pressure to make the car accept the new refrigerant much better. I've done quite a few cars with these kits, and had good success.