Freon in a '98 Firebird?

  • Thread starter Thread starter Shellie L
  • Start date Start date
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Shellie L

My A/C is blowing strong, but hot.

I was going to get a Freon kit at AutoZone but heard that I need to vaccuum and oil the line or the Freon won't do any good.

Does anyone know if this is true and if so, if I could do it myself? This Texas heat is really starting to get to me!
 
134a does not just disappear, if its low then there is a leak that needs to be addressed, As far as recovering all of the old refrigerant it is not necessary because it has 134a in it. On older cars you have to worry about retrofitting the r12 adapters.

They do sell 134a w/ sealant but I have not seen to many positive results.
 
http://automotive.hardwarestore.com/90-559-ac-recharge-kits.aspx here is a site that will show you how to do this and ask questions of how to prepare the system ok. yes you can do it yourself.. ask to be shown the proper way... read about that and then you are all set.. ok
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It's less than $100 to get your R134a refrigerant topped off and you'll know it's done right if you take it to a quality local independent shop you find listed below. All A/C systems leak. It's just a matter of how fast they're leaking. If you've never had it recharged, the leak rate could be quite normal over 10 years.

http://www.iatn.net/shopfinder/
 
Most problems with A/C relate to low freon. Unless the system has lost all its pressure, the lines shouldn't need evacuating, nor oil added.

There are other issues that may be the cause - such as a compressor clutch failure, obstruction in the lines, blocked airflow across the evaporator or condenser, temperature-control airflow damper not working, etc.

One needs to understand the problem before trying to solve it. This requires a good knowledge of how A/C systems work. At a minimum, suggest to get both the high- and low-side pressure readings. The kits from the discount auto parts chains that offer a low-side gauge at best are not the way to go, IMO. You're playing the odds that low freon is the problem and not looking at all facets of the operation.

Then, there are the hazards of A/C systems. The high pressures and low temperatures that are utilized can cause equipment damage and personal injury if one doesn't understand what is going on, or fails to use proper protective equipment. Eye and hand protection are essential when working on these systems. In short, the money you try to save by doing it yourself will be for naught if one is injured or if equipment is damaged during the job.

If you're not sure of what you're doing, suggest to get the system professionally serviced.
 
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