Recharging your OWN AC
08-10-2005 | 12:09 PM
#3
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 3,181
Likes: 0
From: CA
air conditioners need to maintain a vacuum throughout the coolant system. if you let the smallest bubble of air in, it can cause problems. i don't think those DIY A/C recharge kits can ensure that no air gets into the system. if you take it to a radiator or A/C shop, they can. so personally, i'm usually against the DIY recharge kits.
also, since your car is a 1990 model, it may use the old type of refrigerant (R-12). R-12 damages the ozone layer, and was essentially made illegal in the US. you can still get it, but in some states it's illegal to sell it to consumers. mechanics and such can get it, but it also costs a lot more money than it used to, because there is only a limited supply remaining - no one is manufacturing it anymore.
also, since your car is a 1990 model, it may use the old type of refrigerant (R-12). R-12 damages the ozone layer, and was essentially made illegal in the US. you can still get it, but in some states it's illegal to sell it to consumers. mechanics and such can get it, but it also costs a lot more money than it used to, because there is only a limited supply remaining - no one is manufacturing it anymore.