1990 T4r 3vz with auto 4x4. AC not putting out much, if any cool air.

Faced with dilemma, have shop replace the AC system with R134 or purchase a 'recharge kit' and couple cans of R12 and try to recharge the system, figure it would cost a minimum of around 60-$70 vs the cost of having shop recharge the system I imagine can run a few hundred $?

Not current with pros/con's of R134 vs R12 so my dilemma is whether to apply the cost of a Do It Myself, or have shop recharge the system with R134 and be done with it?


Appreciate comments and/or suggestions from members!

 

If you don't have a comprehensive set of AC tools, ( gauges, leak detector, vacuum pump, ect..); You may well find that soon after you 'Do it yourself"....

You'll have to take it to the shop anyway.

 

If you go R-134a, you will have to change out all your o rings to the green o rings. It’s a lot of work but I think it’s worth it. R-12 is expensive but you can still find it on craigslist or OfferUp for around $40 a can. You don’t have to buy the gauges and vacuum, go to an auto store and get the loaner.

step one: get a Vacuum and check your system to see if it holds vacuum. If Vacuum is good, fill with R12.

if vacuum is bad, replace all o rings, receiver drier, ac valve, pressure switch, and convert to R134

 

I appreciate the suggestions

I do have a hand type pump vac gauge, not sure if it is the correct set-up for testing? Local auto part stores do not have a kit they rent one can purchase the can and recharge kit. There are very few shops that specialize in AC servicing but there is a reputable repair shop in my area that quoted $350-$400 if there are no issues with the unit.

Just replaced the hub spindle bushing on the passenger side of the vehicle and intend completing the driver's side tomorrow and if it solves my current issue then it will give me the incentive to deal with the AC by taking to a shop; if bushing does not solve the issue then I will likely go the 'do it myself' going with R12 approach?

Again I thank U's for the input!!

 

That won't get it. An AC vacuum pump is a strong, electrical pump that can pull deep enough vacuum to pull all moisture from the system.

 

I thank all for the input you input has narrowed my choices down and I will know more when I get the axle and hub spindle bushing done, if fixed then it is to the shop for the AC; if not, then it will be a can or 2 of R12 that may or may not work on providing cool air?

.

 

You can't legally buy R12 without the correct license. That doesn't mean someone won't sell you something labelled "R12," but buyer beware. You can squirt "some" in and hope for the best, but you really need the gauges. Only about $100 at HF.

Does your AC work, but just a little under-cooled? Or is it Kaput? Your old R12 had to go someplace (I've heard its "okay" to add about 12oz per year, but personally, I don't buy it). The first step any reputable mechanic (you are reputable, are you not) will do is vacuum the whole system, and confirm that it holds vacuum. If you have a leak of any dimension, horsing around a can at a time is wasting your time and ruining the ozone layer.

 

The AC runs but not cool. I have a can of R12 that has been collecting dust for the past several years; doubtful I will go that route, if my current project fixes the problem then I will be taking the vehicle to a shop and have them repair and charge the system. .