I have a leak somewhere on my AC lines.. I'm pretty sure it uses R12 (1993), but was wondering if anyone has converted it to R134a?

My question is, does your AC get as cold as it did with R12? I know R12 is expensive/getting hard to find, but if it doesn't get as cold, then I'll fix the leak (I'll be fixing the leak regardless) and spend the extra cash on the R12.

Thanks!

 

Your system should be using R-12 unless someone before you converted over to R-134a. I'd check that first. If it is still R-12, get the leak fixed and refill with R-12. Get estimates first. You will find a range of prices, shouldn't be much over $150 depending on where you live. The first owner of my car (I'm the third) converted the system to R-134a and didn't bother telling the second owner - so I had no clue what I had. It was a surprise to me when I took it in to have it serviced. The R-134a refill with labor cost $60. It doesn't blow as cold the R-12 in my 2G but it is adequate (55 degrees or so on a 90 degree day). Now at least I should be able to do much of the service myself in the future.

 

LOL. You know that R134a is going to be phased out also?

No it does not get as cold, and IMHO the system was not that great even when new.

 

I just did mine a few weeks ago. I bought a new dryer from Malloy Mazda. Its a 3 minute swap. I immediately took it to an a/c shop I called in advance to vacuum the old refridgerant and oil. Then he pumped in the new 134a. I had to wire a switch at the relay to get the compressor to turn on because my PFC is naughty.

It cools surprisingly well. Mid 50's in the vents.

 

Thanks for the input, guys!