Recharging AC

[Pacfanweb]

Originally posted by: Spydermag68
Does anyone know where the low pressure side is on a Chevy Blazer?

Look up a few posts and I tell you how to find it.

However, if it's like many other GM's, both fittings are right at the compressor.
Really depends on what year you're talking about.

 

[Spydermag68]

Maine is a 1998 Chevy Blazer.

 

[steppinthrax]

Originally posted by: Pacfanweb

Originally posted by: steppinthrax

Originally posted by: Rabidwerewolf
You don't necessarily have to convert your R-12 system to and R-134a system if the only problem on your vehicle is that the R-12 is low. There are still shops that will recharge an R-12 system. I do know that R-12 is more expensive now, and at last price check, I think it is around $20.90 per pound. It will still be cheaper than converting over to an R-134a system.

However, if you have a leak, or compressor going bad, ect., then you might want to look into it converting over to a R-134 system. Either way you are going to have to take the vechicle into the shop.

Also if you convert a R-12 system to R-134a you have to replace a lot of seals and gaskets. Partly because the old seals are not compatible with the oil the R-134a uses. I believe one uses Ester oil while the other uses PAG oil. So if you convert you got to flush the system at least. If you just convert without changing seals be ready for leaks in the future.

Not necessarily true. Fords, for example, already had the correct seals the last year or two before they switched to 134. A flush isn't necessary in most cases, either.
Follow the instructions on the kit...if it says flush, do it, but I've not seen one yet that does.

Well that is ford, the OP never stated his car info. Also when doing any major A/C service or any service in that matter it's always a good idea to replace/repair whatever cheap componets within the area your servicing. Better to replace it now rather to have it go bad later. Especially considering with the new refridgerant will operate under different pressures and you will have an higher overall pressure in the system anyway from re-charging. It will be tough knowing you just recharged an A/C system and have it all leak out because you didn't change a .05 cent seal.

 

[steppinthrax]

Originally posted by: Pacfanweb

Originally posted by: Zenmervolt

Originally posted by: BD2003
So, out of curiosity, what would happen if I did recharge the wrong side?

Can of refrigerant explodes, embedding pieces of shrapnel in your skin and anything else exposed.

ZV

Yep. Other than that, not much will happen.

A lot of the newer can of R-134a has a metal half-moon shaped perforation in the can. If the pressure exceeds the can's specs it will pop open depressurizing. You pretty much will have a pretty good bottle rocket attached onto a hose.