A/C conversion

[tampa]

89 mazda. Starting to blow cool instead of cold. Looking on ebay for R-12. I came across what is said to be an alternative. When I went to my local auto parts store to ask about it they said they had never heard of it but they have a conversion kit that doesn't require all the rework. Just replace the fitting have it evacuated and recharge with r134. Don't have to replace all the o-rings etc. Anyone know about this?

[Cusser]

Yes: don't convert to R134a, and don't use any sealers or so-called "freon substitutes". It uses a different type of oil, and yours is filled with mineral oil for use with R-12 (most stays in the system even if the R-12 leaks out. You live in Florida, need all your cooling, and R-12 will work better. R-12 is still available, even plentiful, not cheap, but yours only takes 2 pounds, cheaper than a so-called "conversion". You can also purchase R-12 yourself, but first you need to get a 605 certification, about $25 through the Internet. When's the last time you had R-12 added? If you have a real slow leak and haven't added any refrigerant in a few years, that would be "normal" and you may just need one can to top it off and last several years. Have you read your AC pressures? My '88 B2200 is still R-12, in Arizona.

[tampa]

Been a couple years. Really haven't looked for r-12 because I heard it was so expensive. Guess i'll start. thanks for advice.

[skidrowe1]

One pound of R-12 will be cheaper than you reto-fiting to an R-134A system and he is right about the oil. They have 2 differnt kinds oils for service on each type of gas.