A/C Conversion Question

I'm the second owner of my old '91 Explorer; I know that the A/C was originally filled with R12, but there's a label on the A/C pump which clearly states, "Use R134a Only". It would appear that the first owner had the A/C pump replaced at some time in the past.

So, how can I tell which freon is in my A/C system?? Are valve threads different for each freon type ?? Or, since the A/C pump was made to use R134a, can I simply add R134a ??

Also; there are two "fill" valves on the system lines: one valve is located near the pump, and appears to be in the line which connects the pump to the condenser. The other valve is located very close to the accumulator on a line leading into the accumulator.

Which valve should I use to add additional freon ??

Thanks for any and all help,

Mike

Reply to
Tiger
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If the conversion was done correctly the valves should be different.

Reply to
andy

Thanks Andy,

I've never had to work with an auto A/C system before, so I'm still learning. I've only recently learned the difference between an R-12 valve and an R-134a valve.

The valves on my system are the older R-12 variety, which still leaves me guessing as to which freon is inside.

Thanks,

Mike

Reply to
Tiger

It's possible that they had the compressor replaced and it came with that sticker on it as it was intended to go on a later model that came from the factory with 134a. AFAIK, any compressor that can handle

134a can easily handily R12 although it may need a different oil in it.

-- Elbridge Gerry, of Massachusetts:

"What, sir, is the use of militia? It is to prevent the establishment of a standing army, the bane of liberty. . . Whenever Government means to invade the rights and liberties of the people, they always attempt to destroy the militia, in order to raise a standing army upon its ruins." -- Debate, U.S. House of Representatives, August 17, 1789

Reply to
AZGuy

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