Unless it has been converted, it's R-12. R-12 is still available, so that's entirely possible. I doubt this is something you can "legally" work on.
CJB
I just purchased a used 1998 Ford Ranger XLT. It has the 4 cylinder
> engine, the extend cab, and all of the gizmos I need.
>
> Anyway, the air conditioner has been problematic. The dealer has repaired
> it for free twice already. So far, they've replaced a bunch of parts
> around the orfice, and the shraeder valve. Recharge the system, and it
> works for a couple of weeks. I'm pretty sure that they've completed their
> obligations on the "we owe" statement, and I find it's generally less
> hassle to do things myself then to take a car to the garage.
>
> I'm not very familiar with air conditioning systems, even though I'm
> pretty comfortable working on the other sytems in the car. I've replaced
> an alternator, and several mufflers recently on my old Ford Tempo. And I
> spent a lot of time tinkering with the brakes on the old thing too. >
> So, my questions are:
> 0. Is there any good info out-there on shade-tree repair of automotive A/C > systems?
>
> 1. What kind of refrigerant does this machine use? I assume that it's not
> freon, since it's after the CFC regulations. But, is there more than one
> kind of refrigerant?
>
> 2. Can I get a can of refrigerant from Wal-Mart and recharge the system
> myself? It looks like they come with the necessary tools/adapters. >
> 3. Other than putting too much refrigerant in the system, am I likely to
> damage my air conditioner by doing this?
>
> 4. Does tinkering with the system violate any nationwide environmental
> regulations? We don't have emissions testing in this part of Virginia,
> and it's pretty easy to check the local stuff.
>
>
> Thanks in advance!
> -Luke