Date:         Fri, 3 Apr 1998 11:59:41 -0600
Reply-To:     William Ward <wward@TEXOMA.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <Vanagon@vanagon.com>
From:         William Ward <wward@TEXOMA.NET>
Subject:      Help - 86 GL Air Conditioning
Comments: To: Vanagon@VANAGON.COM
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"

I've decided to take the big plunge and have the A/C on my 86 GL repaired
and need advice.  It does get hot here in TX.  First, it's completely empty
- no freon (R12) and it has an aftermarket compressor which could be a
Sanden, York or Tecumseh unit.  Next, my mechanic suggested I replace all
the O-rings before we make a leak test or waste any refridgerant.  He also
suggested I consider converting to R-134A, for all obvious reasons.  From
visual inspection, all components appear to be okay, the compressor turns
freely, all wires and hoses are intact, all fans and controls function, but
the compressor clutch does not engage (because there's no freon, I suppose).
This is a large unit with the major components mounted in the top rear and a
long duct along the roof to the front of the Vanagon.

Any and all advice on what to do first, how much $$$ to expect to dish out,
and who to perform the task (dealer or ... ) will be greatly appreciated.


Bill Ward               86 Vanagon - recently purchased
Pottsboro, TX           65 Mercedes 190 Sedan
                        56 Chevy PU, BBW, V8 - For Sale
                        58 Plymouth Belvedere under construction