I'm 99% sure the 92's all used R-12 (the old "freon"). It should still be available - it is in the US. It's possible someone converted your particular vehicle to the newer freon, 134a. If so, it should have a sticker saying that under the hood.
The system will need to be purged, modified and have R134a installed. In most areas, conversion costs have dropped significantly but I suggest shopping around. There are still many shops that will simply install a "death kit" and send you on your way. Others will make an honest attempt at removing the old oil from the system, replacing O rings and such and try to be sure that the nearly inadequate compressor (in terms of the difference between R134a and R12 areconcerned) will live a happy afterlife. Additionally, we would select a shop that is environmentally concious.
Bear in mind that if you or a previous owner has, at any time, resorted to Freeze12 or one of the other blends as a panacea in the past, it may be difficult to find a shop willing to reclaim questionable refrigerant. I imagine that this area will likely be addressed in the future but we need remember that, currently, there are possibly hundreds if not thousands of rotting containers containing God knows what in the way of off-beat refrigerant 'blends'.
Since the car isn't a spring chicken any more, you may want to consider the financial aspects.... and remember my oft repeated sentiment - we don't own this planet.... we are borrowing it - from our grandchildren.
-- Jim Warman snipped-for-privacy@telusplanet.net
Much appreciated! Thanks!
I did an R-12 to R-134a conversion on my '91. I took some extra precautions based on what I read and what was recommended. I had a leaking low pressure line.
1) Get the "Green" 134a compatible "O" rings for all connections (there aren't any for the compressor / line connection, however, but I read the oil will protect the material. 2) Get replacement soft lines (main hose assembly connected to compressor and high pressure [ from condensor to evaporator buried along passenger side frame]). Be sure to remember the pressure relief valve on the old low pressure line at the compressor mounting block, must be moved to the new one! 3) Spend the little extra and get the variable expansion tube, gives a bit of extra cool at idle. 4) Can of Polyolester oil, pint. You won't use much. Careful, it absorbs moisture. 5) New receiver-dryer 134 compatible type. 6) purge condensor and evaporator with R-11 flush (expensive, but worth it) 7) Requires 134 connector adapter kit (not expensive) 8) Keep receiver-dryer sealed until ready to install and evacuate and refill as soon as possible.I probably spent around $450 (did not need compressor) with all the materials and the R-11 flush, but it was worth it.
Driving down the highway I get 40 deg air from the vents.. I'm happy with the conversion.
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