Is there anybody on this board who has to convert from r-12 to r-134a?

Did you use the Subaru kit or Wal-Mart type?

Thanks,

Roger

i've done quite a few conversions. Hte factory kits are the best to go with. They usually include a new reciever/drier which you should replace anytime you open up and A/C system. also check your condensor for any oil spots in it. Have noitced that subarus tend to have leaky A/C condensors.

Jeremy

where is a good place to buy these conversion kits? is it something I can do in a saturday afternoon? i believe my wife's Impreza has totally run out of R12. there doesn't seem to be any pressure at all.

thanks!

obin

If your AC system is empty or low due to a leak you can't just buy a conversion kit and charge it up again. The leak must be found and repaired, after which the system has to be evacuated. Only then can it be safely recharged. If the system has been empty and open to the atmosphere for a long time the drier will have to be replaced as well. So, unless you are experienced with AC work and have the proper tools this is not a DIY job. Also it's illegal to vent R12 into the atmosphere, it has to be reclaimed for recycling by a special machine.

ok, thanks for the info. what is happening now is:

the AC is NOT working at all. it's blowing HOT HOT air and it doesn't matter what happens when you turn the switch.

when i tried to test the pressure, it looks like there is NO pressure at all (unless i tested it wrong).

what is a fair price to pay to convert to R134A?

thanks!

obin

The price depends on whether major components have to be changed to do the conversion. If so it will be expensive. In some cars it is possible to change over just by evacuating the R12 and recharging with 134 and the proper oil, this is obviously less expensive. I don't know what is involved with your car, perhaps Jeremy will know.
Of course you also have to add the cost of repairing any leaks in the system first.