Re: AC Freon

Note: the following applies in the USA only.

Ok, there are right ways and wrong ways to do this.  Assuming that the system basically works, but has just leaked down a bit due to normal seal leaks, here's what you can do to fix it legally:

1) Go to http://www.epatest.com/ pay your $20, take the OPEN BOOK test, and become a licensed vehicle AC mechanic

2) Buy a can or two of R-12 freon.  You don't want to know what this costs at a FLAPS, but last time I checked EBAY, it was less than $20 a can.

3) Get the adapter to connect the can to the system. (probably on ebay too)  Get a complete mainfold gage set if you want to become an A/C wizzard, otherwise just get the $10 kit.

4) READ THE DIRECTIONS ON THE CHARGE KIT and Re-charge your A/C.  If it doesn't take the whole can, find someone else in need of a top off and get rid of the excess that way, Don't just vent the execss into the air.

Note: there are TWO connections to the Vanagon A/C, high pressure side and low pressure side.  The charge kit connects to the low pressure side only.  Connecting to the hi pressure side will blow up the can, which is a bad thing if you are holding it (or reading the label) at the time!

Or, if the A/C is actually broken:

1) Take it to a shop and have them evacuate the system and re-cycle the freon. (probably cheap, since they can sell the freon they take out of it)

2) Fix the system.

3) Install an R-134a conversion kit (cheap)

4) Re-charge with cheap, easy to buy R-134a

Note that it is illegal to intentionally discharge freon (of any type) into the air, but filling a system with a SLOW leak is OK, since no automotive A/C system is completely leak free.  Some shops will tell you that they can't re-charge the system if there are any detectable leaks.  This is BS (its even on the test for the license).  They have leak detectors that can find a leak as small as a pound of freon in 50 years!  So, they can find a leak in any system if they want to make extra money off of you.

Bill