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240s and AC/freon

Thank you for all your replies regarding my 240 hunt! I have found a few finds, mostly all have no working AC, and I am wondering about the possibility of recharging the existing R-12 (think that's right, the old one) AC system.

I am in metro Los Angeles, and there are many good Volvo shops around here, however, I am unsure how this all works with the environmental laws. I get the freon myself and then try and find a mechanic who will work on it? Or will they most likely want to do conversion? Is this supposed to be clandestine and under the table or something? Should I make a trip to Mexico? This all assumes that a recharge is all these cars need, which could be utter blind faith but I am curious anyway. Thanks!

bhr

Reply to
a0000222x
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The A/C in 240's did not work that well when they were new. I have had a couple of late 80's cars converted to R134 and it was relatively inexpensive (< $100 USD which was less than 2.5 lbs of R12) and worked well. If all the existing major components are working and if auto freon is legal in Mexico I imagine that you could get the system recharged and leaks fixed at an A/C shop there (TJ or Ensenada). Without the correct credentials you cannot purchase freon in the US and it is illegal to bring bulk freon into the US undeclared. If it were me I would drive the car without A/C (yes I live in Ca also and do drive a 245 without A/C). My next choice would be to convert it to R134 but given what I have read I would not expect the A/C on a 240 to work very well due to its' design.

Howard

1985 245 1993 945T 1989 Mustang
Reply to
hnelson

Have it converted to R134A, I did it myself on my 740 and it wasn't hard, you'll have better luck in the longrun than if you try to charge it with R12.

Reply to
James Sweet

Well, I think that AC repair people can still get freon, but it is not available over the counter. I have heard of people using a retrofit kit, to convert to r134a. I have seen these kits at stores like pep boys. I think the show two guys garage on speed tv did a show on the conversion, you may want to check out their website.

I know that freon was being smuggled from Mexico, with all the cars in the south that are older and needing a recharge.

Reply to
Jeff Lesperance

south that are older and needing a recharge. Think about this. There is a reason its being smuggled. Those who do smuggle or use this older freon are indirectly causing enviromental damage. Including skin damage and eye damage to yourself, your immediate family and your grandchildren. Keep cool, let everyone else pay. Change it over.

Reply to
Rojo2G

In article , snipped-for-privacy@aol.com by Rojo2G dropped his wrench, scratched his head and mumbled,

Year before last R-12 was the number contraband seized by customs. Right behind cocaine.

Bob

Reply to
volvowrench

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