Whats all involved in taking my 87 to the current refrigerant?

 

Lots of sweaty days cruising around in your car during the summer. It won't cool as well as R12. The condenser isn't large enough and the R134a isn't as efficient.
You can still find R12 for sale on Craigslist and Ebay. You need a license, but some private sellers won't ask for it.
If you do choose to convert to R134A, the proper way is to flush the system, change the receiver dryer, change all your O rings to the green ones, make sure your hoses are good(even though they will leak refrigerant because the R134A molecule is smaller and will get past the old barrier type hoses) pull a vacuum and recharge.

 

oh noes!!!

Well the current system doesnt work, I assume it leaked out over the years... Can I use the same machine at work to check pressure and stuff? or do I have to have a R12 machine?

 

If you convert to R134A you can use the machine at work. You need to add the conversion connections to your schrader valves. I forgot to mention - you need to add oil if you flush the system. You will need about 6 oz. of oil. I would use ester just in case all the old mineral oil is not flushed as the pag oil used in R134A systems does not play well with mineral oil.

 

You can get new R134 rated hoses on Rockauto.com for $72. I used them on my car.

 

Well, asked my grandfather and he has 60 lbs of R 12.... Lol. Thanks guys.