A/C clicking on and off

[mxsurf]

Hello, I was just looking at a '90 Camry (75K). I have 2 questions about the A/C - when I turned it on it clicked every 3-4 seconds (maybe turning on and off the compressor?) for about 8-10 times before staying on. It hasn't been driven very much the past 3 years. Would this be a reason for the clicking at first? It's moderately cool - is the older chemical still real expensive ? Would a new compressor with a conversion to the new chemical cost about $900 ?I'm trying to weigh the cost to fix it up; it needs 4 struts, 2 CV boots, brakes and probably plugs, cap and wires($85), but the paint (charcoal metallic) and interior is in top shape...and only $400. Mike

[Dave's]

I'd guess low on Freon. Most shops won't charge a system that leaks and R12 is hard (and expensive) to get. But you don't need to change the compressor to switch to R134. So, it MAY be pretty cheap to fix. (<$500.) That's paying to get a leak fixed and switching to R134. Best advice I can give is take it to a shop and get an esimate.

[toyomoho]

The A/C system may have a site glass on the dryer. If low on Freon, you will see bubbles in the fluid when the compressor is on. Check past TN threads on conversions.

[mxsurf]

Thanks Toyomoho, It's a difficult decision.If my back wasn't sore I'd gladly buy the 75 K Camry and replace all the stuff I've done on my Camry(115K) just to get a younger engine. 40K in Honolulu is 3-4 years driving. My Camry has a replaced Compressor and the conversion , but it was at 65k, so it may last only a couple years.How do most states handle storing a car - as far as the registration ? Ahhhhh ...."My Back Pages" by the Byrds, one of their best. Mike