Date: Sun, 28 May 2000 14:46:00 -0500
Reply-To: Rob & Lrae Winterkorn <volksman@ENTERACT.COM>
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From: Rob & Lrae Winterkorn <volksman@ENTERACT.COM>
Subject: Re: 134A refridgerant (slight rambeling)
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The ONLY advantage of 134A is any one can buy it and install it. Oh and
its safe for are planet. (sarcasm)
It is in no way better than R 12 in fact it can't be compared far as
chemicals are concerned.
I don't want to start another discussion on this and I know several list
members have retrofitted to 134A, I only want to help. I cringe when
this topic comes up.
I have been in heating, cooling and refrigeration for over 15 years, I
have very strong beliefs why
it was even created $$$$$$$$ Our mighty government created a myth to tap
into tons of money
they never touched before. I didn't just say that did I?
When you raise the price of something (tax) you force the market to come
up with alternatives.
Alternative is just that, another choice. It does not describe better
nor equal too. For example, lets say I forgot my bathing suit, My
alternative is don't swim, swim in my cloths, or swim naked. Several
alternatives but non better, especially for those with eyes around me.
Dupont and other manufactures that produce the chemicals R 12 & R 22 are
getting around 10%
of the going price the rest is tax.
So now we have several new types of refrigerant, different chemicals
that are not compatible with
older systems. The most common in autos now is 134A. Now when a system
is designed to work on this
it works, if you talk to mechanics its garbage, new cars on 3rd & 4th
compressors, not cooling complaints. when you change a few seals, the
oil, and expansion valve and/or the orifice whatever, you are now ready
for 134A it works, but not as well.
R 12 will still be available, the key @ $30.00 + per pound is a tight
properly working system.
Yes you will have to pay an EPA certified individual to install it.
I like many on the list hate to let others touch our beloved vans and
cars, but far as the a/c system goes its worth it to have it done by
someone with the right equipment.
After any work is done on an a/c system is is very important to pull a
vacuum and leak check.
A proper vacuum can only be achieved in time, I personally run a vacuum
pump for no less than an hour, usually two -three hours. This goes for
any time the system is open to atmosphere.
By no means is calling a retrofit to 134A "AN UPGRADE" it is my opinion
a mistake that costs money.
I have been looking into direct replacements for R-12, one is freeze 12,
this is compatible directly into your system, and most importantly the
oil. Until the price comes down it is still not worth looking into.
As long as R-12 is available stay with it.
My 2 cents
Flame suit at cleaners, go easy on me.
Rob
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