On Mon, 7 Jul 2003, Stan Wilder wrote:

> #3) R134 runs at such high pressures it makes your compressor and clutch
> struggle if it isn't a Compressor Designed for R134 . Noisy compressors
> are a normal thing on R12 system retrofits. Belt squeal is another
> symptom of the higher head pressures. Most R134 systems use the wide
> grooved / ribbed belt because V belts in most cases don't cut the
> mustard.

My Honda has a R134 system with a V belt, but the belt does chirp if the
compressor kicks in at high RPM.  (Over 5,000 or so.)  IMHO they should
have added a high RPM cut-out because when the compressor kicks in at 6
grand it just about gives you whiplash.

It sure doesn't cool as well as the R12 system in my old car did.  Above
95 degrees F it really struggles, especially if the humidity is high.  It
seems like there must have been a better alternative for the EPA to
approve as the One True Refrigerant than this junk, but I guess it's all
about whose pockets get lined these days.

David Brodbeck, N8SRE
'82 Diesel Westfalia
'94 Honda Civic Si