So since this car is 30 yrs old, isn't there new freon for a/c units now? Can i still get my old system charged and what kind of freon?

 

The old ones, if they have not been converted yet, take R-12. That's what I put in my '91.

Somewhere around 1993, Lexus and the rest of the world switched to R-134a. R-12 vs. R-134a involves different oil (that mixes with the refrigerant) and seals at a minimum.

Specifics of the conversion are in Lexus TSIB AC001-98, attached.

So you can either convert to R-134a or refill with R-12. But if your system is empty now, it's probably because you have at least one leak, so anything you refill with will begin to escape while you find the leak.

The high and low pressure ports on R-12 vs. R-134a are different, so that's usually part of the conversion, when done right.

If your system just developed a leak and the R-12 escaped, your system may be pretty good other than the leak and lack of refrigerant. But if you figure you've got not much to lose and figure out how to charge it with R-134a, you may end up damaging the compressor, etc. beyond repair. So move carefully if you care about preserving what you've got there.

 

A friend has non-working AC on his 1993 LS400 with 165,000 miles.

The AC compressor clutch does not respond or engage at all with dash controls....

Anyone have issues with controls only?

I have not inspected it and he is unable to advise whether there is freon visible in site glass.

30 year old AC lines and seals (o-rings) could be leaking...

All fuses were replaced so wondering whether anyone has experienced a relay failure.

 

easy to forget these cars are 30 years old now.