My 1982 Trans Am has not had working AC in 15 years. The hoses leaked and I never bothered to fix it. I want to get it going again. What are some of the things besides the hoses and receiver dryer that should be changed? I scored some R12 off of Craigslist so I do not need a bigger condenser. Should the compressor be replaced? Where is a good place to buy these parts? I am thinking that it is probably shot after sitting for so long without use. I looked around for a replacement and it seems that the new ones have a different style clutch. This dissapoints me due to the lack of originality. Has anyonne had their original compressor rebuilt and if so, where?
Any advice would be appreciated.

 

ttt

 

It would be best to replace the compressor as well. Take a look at Rockauto.com, you can find all the parts you need. You could use R-12 but your better off using 134a if your repairing the system. R-12 is only slightly colder than 134a besides 134a is cheaper. I just had my system recharged last year with 134a because of the lack of availability of R-12, I used synthetic 134a and it is just as cold if not colder than the R-12 that I replaced. The only parts that need to be replaced are your hoses,pump, and accumulator. More than likely the cost of someone rebuilding you pump will the almost the same as just buying a rebuilt one. If your a DIYer get a GM service manual then you could buy the rebuild kit for the pump and rebuild it your self and save a few hundred bucks.

 

Google it and you'll find a ton of info including how to videos etc. etc. on what you need to do and how to do it.

 

r-134 in a system designed to run r-12 will not run as cold as an r-12 system running r-12. if you swap to a bigger condensor or a parallel flow condensor then yea, r-134 will be just as cold as r-12 in a stock system. if the system hasnt been used in 15 years, then id replace everythin possible...

 

I am going to leave the system R12, as I was able to pick some up on Craigslist. I jumped the compressor yesterday to see if it made any funky noise and it worked fine for the few seconds I let it run. It probably still a good idea to get a new one though. I think I am going to get new AC lines, receiver dryer, compressor, orifice tube and o rings. I also have to get a vacuum pump and gauge set.

 

sounds like youll have a nice and chilly ac when done.

 

Might as well replace the condensor too. There are direct fit stock replacements out there for not a boat load of $.

 

I would try napa auto parts thay have alot of good A/C parts and if you want to keep your A/C R-12 use R-406 autofrost it is R-12 compliant

 

you need a license to buy 406, just like you need one to buy r-12.

however, for $20, you can take an online test and get one.

 

I have the MACS A/C certification for handling of R-12 products

 

im not sure if its the same license for 406, but i need to get it when i finish my ac. Ill be running 406. and i only have one more line to make.