The R-134 is definitely less effective, especially with the '85 (some '86) and older A/C's. Smaller evap, single evap fan, smaller condenser. If you were to upgrade to a larger parallel flow condenser (e.g. 16" x 22") you'd end up with about the same performance as with R-12. Going to R-134A you'll also need to flush the system to remove the mineral oil, and then use PAG or POE oil. The R-12 compressors (like Sanden SD510 or SD710) are not likely to last as long with the newer oils they're not designed for, and the poorer oil carrying capacity of R-134A vs R-12. At this point, as long as you can get recycled R-12, there really is no downside to keeping it R-12 (other than fewer A/C techs, and tougher supply chain for R-12). I'm in Phoenix, and did the R-134A conversion with a stock '85 style system (mine is a Jan 1986 model Westy and had the pre '86 system). Performance really sucked. I went through several upgrade iterations (condenser, compressor, TXV, etc.) until finally building a custom A/C cabinet, and installing an '87 up style system with the larger evap and dual evap fans (I added one as well, but that's another story). Keith Hughes '86 Westy GenV (Marvin) -------------------------------------------- On Thu, 4/6/17, Automatic digest processor <LISTSERV@GERRY.VANAGON.COM> wrote: Subject: vanagon Digest - 6 Apr 2017 (#2017-128) To: "Recipients of vanagon digests" <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM> Date: Thursday, April 6, 2017, 9:00 PM ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Date: Thu, 6 Apr 2017 19:00:56 -0700 From: Remy <remster2@YAHOO.COM> Subject: <No subject given> I have an '85 Westfalia with Air Conditioning. Which is best - stay with R= 12 freon or switch to R134. My mechanic thinks I should switch but have hea= rd R 134 is not as effective AND I live n Arizona. Thanks I value your opin= ions . Remy ------------------------------ End of vanagon Digest - 6 Apr 2017 (#2017-128) ********************************************** |
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