a/c connection?

[stewguy]

hello all!

i'm trying to charge the a/c in my 1992 camry, got the cans of refrigerant, r-12 hoses, etc. but don't think i have the right connection. there is what a shrader valve to the right of the radiator right up on top, but the hose doesn't fit (perhaps a different sized high pressure connection? i don't know). can someone enlighten me? please, i hate sweating!

[fredk]

you better let a shop do it

[toyomoho]

You might get more info on this setup. The valves are different for R12 and R134A. Are you sure the A/C system was not converted to R132A. The valve you are referring to may be on the high-pressure side of the compressor. You do not want to add fluid on the high side as the Freon container could rupture. There should be a fitting(s) on the compressor.

You need to add the fluid to the low side of the system, coming from the evaporator inside the car.

There might be a sight glass near the dryer (a large aluminum can near the radiator). If you have one, start the A/C, look to see if the fluid is clear or has bubbles. If bubbles, the fluid level is too low. If clear, have someone turn the A/C off. Watch if the fluid starts to have bubbles (normal) or remains clear (as in too much or no fluid).

[Doctor J]

The high side charge fitting has 3/16 inches SAE flare size and has 3/8-24 straight threads.
You need to get 3/16 female to 1/4 SAE male flare fitting adapter.

[diver9000]

You need to make sure of several things first before you try to add freon.
1. Is your system made for R-12 or did you have the fitted for R-134? You can buy the conversion kit for less than $20.
2. Either way before you add freon the A/C system is a sealed system so unless you have a leak, adding freon may do you no good.
3. Have a shop EVAC your A/C system! This is what they do: The shop will vacuum the old freon out.
4. They check all of your connections and connectors, then oil will be added because without compressor-A/C oil your system wont run and you will burn up your compressor and clutch. Most shops use oil with dye in it to check for leaks (that way they dont waste a bunch of freon and it will save you money if there is a leak, because it will be easier to find.)
5. Once the shop is sure there are no leaks they add the freon (this is where you need a guage.) Once done you should have cold air coming from the vents. The ambient temp should be about 45 - 60 degrees coming out of the vents. The temp inside of the vehicle will depend on the size of the vehicle, outside temp, how many windows etc......
Most places are less than $100 for a full A/C charge.

[Doctor J]

The only problem is that most shops will insist of charging the system with Freeze-12, as a substitution for R12.

[diver9000]

Freeze 12? whats the difference? Is it just a different name so they can charge more or is it really something better?

[Doctor J]

It is a blend of about 80% of R134a and the rest is R142b. It has about the same pressure /temperature curve as R12 but is less expensive then R12.

[diver9000]

Hey Doc,
Thats cool. Is it more expensive? Do they sell it in autoparts stores or shops only?

[Doctor J]

No, it is actually way less expensive then R12. It is supplied by Technical chemical, and as far as I heard of, the small cans are available in a/c supplies stores, no license is required to purchase them.