11 replies to this topic

[sweepersrgr8]

Yes, I have converted mine from R12 to R134A, and it cools the truck much faster.

The first thing you need to do is replace ALL of your "O" rings. Lube them with a small amount of Vasoline, USE NOTHING ELSE. Since it hasn't been used in a while, go ahead and replace the Expansion Valve, and the Reciever/Drier. You can pick all of these up at your local Autozone(the O rings come in an assortment pack, so get 3 packs to make sure you have what you need). Replace them now, it WILL save you money in the end.

Then, you will need to go to an A/C service center to have your system Vaccumed out to a negative 3 lb's. This will clean out any R12 left in the system, and allow you to get enough R134A in there to cool properly. Most of the problems you hear about R134A, is because they didn't draw the system down to negative pressure.

You will need to disconnect the harness that connects to your Reciever/Drier, and make a female to male spade jumper, to bypass the Low Refrigerant switch(you'll see what to do when you pull it), to get the compressor to come on.

Install the adapters, and charge it up following the instructions. Don't forget to reconnect your Low Refrigerant switch when finished. Depending on your system type, you may need more refrigerant than the kit supplies. I had to add about a half extra can to get up to the proper pressure.

You can get this kit at Walmart, and Autozone too. Why wait on shipping to save 50 cent ?

[sweepersrgr8]

How many licks does it take to get to the center of a Tootsie Roll Pop?

It all depends on the system.

NO. The kit does not tell you where they are. All of your A/C connections will have "O" rings. Including the compressor. Some connections require a spring tool(only 1 on my '89). the "O" ring kit that Autozone carries is not Bronco specific. It is an A/C assortment pak...that is why I recommended buying 3 packs(about $3.00 each).

The conversion kit will give specific instructions on oil, and final pressure, It comes with oil and a gauge.

I recommended BIGREDTRUCK replace these items, because his system has been out of use for several years. His Reciever/Drier($28), and Expansion Valve($26) are definately contaminated, and, or clogged.

Also, I am not sure what year Ford started using the "Defrost-A/C Cycle Switch", it is recommended that you cycle the A/C several times during the winter to prevent the expansion valve from clogging, and to keep the "O" rings oiled. On newer trucks, the A/C cycles when you turn the defroster on.


Hope this covers the bases. Let us know.

[4xfan78]

Instead of using R134-a you can put a direct R-12 replacment in thats called RB-276. all you have to do is pull all the old r-12 out make sure it will hold a vaccume and the put in the free zone (RB-276) in. The good thing is it takes less of it to do the same job and you do not need a special liscense to buy it. It cost about $8.00 a can 16oz the stuff is gggggrrrreeaat!!!

[sweepersrgr8]

Brian, the "O" rings are for the LEAKS, not the refrigerant type. If your system won't hold a charge, or vaccume, you need to replace the "O" rings. It's a 45 minute project, and cheap insurance.

RB-276 is not readily available here, and hell I can get all the R-12 I want for free, I went to the R-134A, because it's ozone friendly.

[dicain]

if you dont get all the old oil and r12 your system may be a time bomb waiting for a hot day. it like to hide in the small cans in the low side.