injectedls1

Thanks for your viewpoint. I will take it into consideration.

I have read testimony from people who've added Freeze-12 to R-12 with no issues (I don't believe everything I read on the internet). Couldn't I just tell the AC mechanic that the system was contaminated? Besides that, I don't plan to repair it if it breaks, and I won't be selling this car. This is a one time all or nothing- fix it or bypass it situation, and I want to get it done as cheaply as possible. Knowing that I don't plan to pay hundreds of dollars to solve this issue, how would I drain the R-12 from the system? Am I better off buying some R12 off ebay? Do you have a better suggestion? thanks for the advice

Ok great information, thanks. I've gathered that a kit with special fittings and hoses is required to add Freeze-12 to an R12 system. Add that to the fact that Freeze-12 appears to contain R-134a which can wear out seals on an R-12 system, and it sounds like a bad solution. Thanks for the advice! Edit: After researching all morning I think I've made up my mind to try Freeze-12. I can't find any reviews on Autofrost, and I can't find anyone who supplies it. I have seen a dozen or so good reviews for Freeze-12, and it is very cheap. If it wears the seals out or leaks then I will bypass it. I will be using the kit below, and plan to just add the Freeze-12 to whatever R-12 remains in the system. I will have to double check, but I think mine holds 4.5lbs. I'll add the oil charge initially then the leak stop later if the system gets low again. Any tips or pointers? http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/FREEZE-12-R...0262303006&

Hopefully they can also give me their .02 on freeze-12 and some of the other R12 substitutes that run much cheaper. I'll stick around to find out before I go swapping belts and taking things apart.

Hmmm, I was informed that 134a required all new hoses because it's molecular structure is smaller causing it to seep through r-12 hoses. I was also told that the oils used to lubricate each system are incompatible with each other and therefore all components must be replaced. I have no experience with AC so that is all word of mouth advice. I actually considered having it refilled with r-12 (I found a shop that has it), but it is significantly more expensive. I only paid $1000 for this car, so I can't see dropping $500 on a feature I would rarely use.

I have the "Very Low Refrigerant : A/C Compressor Off" warning. Rather than converting the system to a legal form of freon, or taking the chance that the compressor might seize up and cause damage I would rather bypass it. I have never used the AC in this vehicle.

Thanks, I will update after the install.

I just came across this diagram on another site along with some claims that this setup is working despite the fact that it has much less contact with the water pump. I will probably give it a try, worst case scenario - I'm stuck with a useless belt. Length is 62 inches. Part numbers are Duralast 620K6 or Dayco 6PK1575 as shown.

Ok, I will just pick up the bypass pulley then. Thanks

Sorry to dig up an old thread here, but will the 74" belt also be effective on the pre-northstar 4.9L in my 92 STS? Thanks!