1985-1998 [Subscribe to Daily Digest] |
Thanks (to all)for your comments. I feel I'm slip-sliding into an interesting scenario, much like when I took the family grandfather clock apart as a kid...just wanted to see how it worked. My plan does include getting the A/C system pressure-tested, and repaired if required. My interest in alternative refrigerants is based on a couple of points. There is an R-12 substitute called GHG-X4 or R-406A which is EPA approved. The makers claim that it can be used as an exact substitute for R-12, with the caveat that the hoses may need to be upgraded to handle its smaller molecular structure. Unlike isobutane/propane substitutes, which from my research appear to be widely used in other parts of the world, and work well, it is not flammable. (The flammable argument makes me wonder about the 66 liters of fuel circulating around my car) It is a composition of 3 existing, approved refrigerants plus a 2% hydrocarbon component. According to several (seemingly) different discussions on the topic, it provides better lubrication with the existing mineral oils, and about a 10% lower temperature than even R-12. NOW...for the controversy. There seems to be an "air conditioning lobby" which tried to have this product, as well as others, kept off the market. The people who claim this, cite the self-serving interests of the burgeoning R-134 conversioners etc. I don't know if this is true, but the specs for a product called AUTOFROST seemed to be on the level. I have called all over my market area, (Vancouver, BC) and I am getting entry-level quotes at 1400 dollars for an R-134 conversion/test/flush/recharge. This seems excessive. The proponents of Autofrost claim I can merely "plug, flush and refill". I doubt that there is anything wrong with my compressor. There is probably a small leak somewhere, but not knowing the history of the car, and living in a temperate climate its possible nobody bothered to run the A/C for years at a time. Wouldn't it be interesting if I could not get screwed to the max on this one. Anyone with any experience in this matter?
posted by 24.76....
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