So I went to a local shop today to get my air condition looked at and refuel since its summer. They tell me that they would need to change out my whole ac unit because they do not use that type of gas anymore, which would cost a few hundred. I told them i'll get back to them. I wanted to maybe take it to another shop and ask if anyone have any info on this. Are they just trying to pull my leg. I have a 93 sc400 btw. Anyone know where I could go get my ac refueled?
thank you

 

do you mean topping off with R12 or 134a gas?

im assuming its r12 since they said they dont use it anymore. that doesnt mean the world doesnt use it anymore.. but yea..

Ive read around some placed would pay you to get your r12.. cuz its expensive and is worth a lot!!

 

Just so you know, the A/C is a closed system and the only way for you to lose refrigerant is if you have a leak. You can get by using your old compressor and retrofitting it with R134a hardware, but definitely get that leak fixed or you will be back at the shop getting it evacuated/recharged every so often.

 

where would i find the info to do this and buy the parts need?

thank you

 

Call around see how much it would be to have someone find the leak.
sometimes you only need to replace just the one part.

 

Typically what happens is an O-ring goes bad, a hose cracks, or both. Could also be a leak from the compressor, evap canister, etc. Like neurocity said, you'll need to have a shop find and fix the leak for you (or if you're inclined to dig into it yourself, Autozone sells a UV dye kit w/ goggles).

The R134a "retrofit" kit sold at parts stores is basically a couple of fittings. To do a true conversion would cost you a pretty penny. After both of those things are done, the shop can evacuate the system (create a vacuum to remove air/water) and fill it with refrigerant.