I speak as someone who has only removed AC systems. I've never found a
system (out of 4) I removed that didn't have at least one pinched O ring
that was most likely leaking.
http://www.robinair.com/acsolutions/acfaq/acfaq.htm
http://www.freeze-12.com
http://www.aircondition.com/wwwboard/alternative/current/6303.html
http://www.autofrost.com
Resources for AC refrigeration optioins.

Stan Wilder
On Thu, 21 Feb 2002 16:50:32 -0500 "Beckham, Chip" <cbeckham@NORDSON.COM>
writes:
> I've had to top off my A/C system every year I've owned my Vanagon,
> since it
> was new.  In the early years, it wasn't much Freon to get a clear
> sight
> glass and R12 used to be cheap.  Not anymore.  My system now needs
> both long
> hoses replaced to hold any charge.  I understand there is a better
> replacement for R12 than R134.  Anyone have any luck with
> refrigerant
> conversions?
>
> Chip Beckham
> 85 GL
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: developtrust [mailto:developtrust@HOME.COM]
> Sent: Thursday, February 21, 2002 1:41 PM
> To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
> Subject: Air Conditioner Question
>
> My air conditioner is starting to blow cool air and not cold. I was
> told by
> my VW dealer that vanagons need service every year due to the long
> hoses
> etc. even if it does not seem to leak.
>
> This does not seem correct to me but that is their experience. Does
> anyone
> have their AC system last longer than a year? At $180 to service it
> I'd like
> to fix any leaks to minimize a yearly drop of almost $200.
>
> Any advice? It is 80 degrees in California today with our dry Santa
> Ana
> winds and also summer is coming.
>
> Has anyone solved this AC issue more permanently than replacing
> freone every
> year?
>
> William Polowniak
> 1989 Vanagon GL
> 1988 Mercedes 300 SE
>