Stock A/C--options?

[Anonymous]

65 coupe, stock A/C. All the pieces are there, but the system is open, as in the hoses were disconnected from the compressor when I got the car. What's the best idea--fix it back stock with R12, convert the stock system to R134, or yank it out and put in a new R134 system? I'm not concerned about keeping a stock look under the hood, but I'd like to keep the stock under dash unit. Priorities are cost, reliability and cooling in that order.

 

[rickwrench]

First, see if the compressor is siezed. Apply 12v to the compressor power lead to engage the electromagnetic clutch and see if you can turn it over by hand (belts off). If it's free, purge the oil (if any is left) in the compressor, recharge the oil, put it all back together, pull 29" of vacuum on the system for an hour or so, and use a brand name R12 substitute (freeze 12, etc) to charge it. Top off as needed over the summer.
That's the cheapest way.
For my falcon I used a stock 64-65 mustang underdash evaporator unit, a new expansion valve, new barrier hoses and fittings, an aftermarket condenser, a new R134 sanden and welded up some brackets. It wasn't exactly cheap, but it's all new and works great.
Rick(wrench)

 

[Anonymous]

Thanks Rick. Checked the compressor, it clutches in like a champ and spins easily with no noise. I ordered a charge kit from freeze 12; we'll see how it works. I really hope it's that easy.

Only tough part may be finding a vacuum pump. They aren't as available for rent as they used to be, based on a few places I checked today.

Anyway, thanks for the help.

 

[Anonymous]

Here is a fairly good discussion of the A/C oils and etc for those of us non air conditioning folks.
http://www.autofrost.com/autodisc.pdf
It reinforces what I've always been told.
Clean the current system and then reclean it again.(Alcohol)
Depending on how much R12 is left, if any, will depend on how well your new lubricant holds up.
Depending on how well the R12 is purged will ahve an immense effect on how well the new charge performs-or how long it even works.
FWIW.
DaveP