I also had my a/c checked out by an auto air shop.  Zero freon.   They
filled it up and it works well.  Couldn't find any leaks.  Put a die in the
system, and after three weeks no sign of leak.  They did note that the
compressor was noisy.  A loud whine.  Can't hear it up front, unless I roll
down the window.  Took it to a VW mechanic, and he said the compressor
clutch was going out and that I should replace it (before I take off on a
7000 mile trip).  So I ordered a new one from the Bus Depot while they're
still available and relatively cheap.

Incidentally, I decided to convert to R-134a since I was replacing the
compressor and receiver-drier.  Called the auto air shop to see if they'd
buy the R-12 back.  In addition to saying no, they said I'd be sorry.
They've had a lot of customers return and want to convert back to r-12.
Saying that the r-134 cooling is inadequate (down here in southern Missouri
it is seriously hot and humid for four months a year).  I called my Saab
mechanic for a second opinion and he said don't do it, keep the r-12.

Also, I have discovered that the a/c in the westie (which blows out above
the rear seat only) will cool the front better if all the front vents are
closed.  Apparently, the outside air blowing in the front keeps the cool air
from making it all the way to the front.

Bill Wedenoja
new '88 westie GL owner
former '77 westie owner
waw105f@mail.smsu.edu

-----Original Message-----
From: Rubatoguy <Rubatoguy@MINDSPRING.COM>
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Date: Sunday, June 06, 1999 3:08 PM
Subject: A/C compressor question - noise

>I recently had my A/C all checked out, recharged and a new
>reciever/dryer installed. It works well. Except that when the system is
>on, the compressor is louder than the engine. Though it is interesting
>driving a Westy that sounds turbine driven, I have to wonder, are the
>compressors supposed to be that loud?
>
>On the last trip I had the rear seat passengers remark. "Oh, this must
>be rear engined, because I can hear the motor revving" but, as it turned
>out, they were hearing the A/C compressor.
>
>The mechanic who serviced the A/C did not mention it - so I assume he
>did not think it was a problem. Is this just the nature of the beast?
>
>Thanks
>
>Todd
>'88 Westy
>