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Necoa #: 8721
Location: 13(TX)
Joined: Dec 22, 2006
Posts: 333
Year: 1983
Model: El Camino
Posted: Sun Jun 03, 2007 7:38 pm Post subject: R12 or R134a..which do I have???
When did they change to R134a from R12?
Is there a way to tell what is in my system?
I have an 1983 EC with 6 cyl. The engine was replaced by the PO and The compressor looks new as well. So I may have R-134a but I dont know how to tell.
Before I begin filling it I should get the answer.
The system has two different sized Schrader valves and NO sight glass so I am thinking it may be R-134a Would the model of the compressor tell?? _________________ Jim
1983 El Camino
R12 have screw on valve fittings. R-134a have fittings simular to a quick
disconnect for an air hose. The small valve is the low pressure line and
larger one is the high pressure line. Normally the low valve should have
a blue cap and the high a red one. You still could have R-134a and not
have the proper valve conversions if someone did not leave them on, this
is not likley. When you sort this out, put on a sticker on the fan housing
stating what you have, for future service. I had my system converted to
R-134a and am using the original compressor. Doug _________________ 85 El Camino 305, TH350, K&N, dual exhausts
87 El Camino 305, 2004R, K&N, dual exhausts
1964-1/2 Mustang conv, 260 V8, dual exhausts
2002 Jaguar XJ8, 2000 Harley Road King
Lakewood, CO
Last edited by dougs85 on Mon Jun 04, 2007 10:37 pm; edited 1 time in total
Necoa #: 8721
Location: 13(TX)
Joined: Dec 22, 2006
Posts: 333
Year: 1983
Model: El Camino
Posted: Mon Jun 04, 2007 8:58 am Post subject:
finally I got ahold of the daughter of the previous owner (who is dead) and she tells me it has R-134a in it.
Well that means I have to do a complete evacuation and start over, because When I got the truck I thought it had R-12 in it and tried topping it off with R-12. So now its got some of each in it.
Life comes at you fast! _________________ Jim
1983 El Camino
Posted: Mon Jun 04, 2007 3:30 pm Post subject: BE CAREFUL
Any mixture of the two results in extremely high pressures. DO NOT connect a gauge set because it will probably damage them. If you take it to a shop be sure and tell them it is contaminated. Very serious business. I did shop equipment repair AC Recovery units, tire balancers, aligners and etc. for many years and this was one of the most dreaded things. I have seen high pressure gauges completely bent around several times.
Send me a PM and I will share more details if you would like. _________________ 84 Elky with 455 Buick, Tremec TKO600 5 speed, 8.5 3:42 posi -
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Another 3 to 9 years should finish it.
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