In a perfect, or even equitable world, I'd agree with you, but... there's
been a gazillion of these conversions done, probably more successful than
not. If you do your research well and execute it properly with the proper
tools and parts (not with the Wal-Mart kits), you should be fine.
On another note, seems like a lot of people that'll tackle most any other
job will shy away from A/C maintenance and repair, to the tune of a couple
grand sometimes. It doesn't seem to me to be any more difficult, really,
than doing a proper brake job, which many driveway mechanics will do without
much of a second thought- and the brakes are obviously a far more critical
system. Of course many people seem to only do half of a 'complete' brake job
(I'm guilty of same myself; don't always service the rotors and slaves and
such).
The worst part of A/C service is the learning curve which isn't really that
bad... it just seems that way before you delve into it. The tools aren't
even that expensive necessarily (tools good enough for the
occasional/amateur), and if you have several vehicles, you can service 'em
all, just like you do with other things... Learn to fish, impress your
friends, save bunches of cash- do yer own A/C work.

Cya,
Robert

----- Original Message -----
From: "Robert Cardo" <rrecardo@WEBTV.NET>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Thursday, May 12, 2005 9:33 PM
Subject: Re: AC Service Prior to Pressure

> Not too good of an idea changing an old system, especially with an old ,
> who know's in what kind of condition compressor over to the inefficient
> 134, that runs at higher pressure's , delivering 20% less cool air at
> the ducts as the R-12.
>
> Not a good idea at all.
> Changing all the o-rings is good.
> Changing the dryer is manditaory having an open system.
> forget the rest.
>
> Run either R-12 or an R-12 A, or an equivalent alternative refrigerant
> that runs at lower operating pressures.
>
>
>
>
> <<Don_Dixon@BELLSOUTH.NET
> Michael,
> You will need to replace the receiver/dryer assembly. You may wish to
> consider changing all of the o-rings on the fittings you need to
> break/attach with R-134a compatible ones, even if you do not change the
> unit over to R-134a - that way, you can change it over later and
> eliminate some future leaks. Personally, I would change it over to
> R-134a now, since you need to refill the unit from the get go, but
> that's just me...
> Don in Reidsville, NC>>