So my car is a 1992 SC300/5 Speed, 80k miles, complete service history. This is my daily driver that I just adore, I've racked up 20k miles on it since I bought it in 2012, mainly doing long distance trips. Its been to New York City and back to Nashville, Atlanta to Nashville 6-7 times, its been all over the southeast and midwest, no problems.

Noticed yesterday that there is a slight grumbling under the hood when the A/C is on. I figure its the bearings going bad on the A/C compressor. Its not real loud or noticeable, unless you are really listening for it. IE the if the cooling fan kicks on, that racket overpowers the grumbling sound.

So a couple of questions. I know replacing the compressor is stupid expensive, ie $500 to $1000.

1. 1992, is it R12 or R134a????

2. If the compressor locks up, is there a way to bypass it with a shorter belt??? I'm between jobs right now, with the weather cooling, fixing this next year would be a lot better on my finances.

EDIT: If I'm being a bit vague, its just a slight "grumbly" noise when the A/C is on. It still blows ice cold, automatic temp control works great, I was cool as a cucumber in the 95 degree heat with my wool suit jacket on yesterday.

3. What should I expect money wise to replace the compressor and overhaul the a/c system???

 

'92s were R12, as far as I know. It's possible the previous owner converted it, though.

 

If he did convert it, I have no record. I'm 99% certain that the a/c system is exactly as it left the factory back in Japan in 1992. Just like the rest of the car, its very well preserved.