WD Catalog 2018

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12
Chapter
Retrofitting an R-12 System
• Retrofit Survey
• General Retrofit Procedure
• Chapter Review
The world supply of R-12 is ever declining. Although many precautions are
being taken to contain R-12, it continues to be lost to the atmosphere. At the
same time production of this material is being curtailed. Production of R-12
will actually cease at the end of 1995.
As long as a supply exists and the price is reasonable, R-12 systems should
be serviced with this refrigerant. However, at some time, you will be retrofit-
ting R-12 systems with R-134a. It would be a good idea to become acquainted
with the retrofit process on those vehicles you normally service. This will allow
you to discuss the process with your customer and estimate the costs involved.
The most dependable way to retrofit a system is to replace all components in
the refrigerant loop. This is costly and time consuming. Many vehicle manufac-
turers will recommend a retrofit procedure with a kit. Retrofit kits are planned
for vehicles produced in high volume.
Retrofit Survey
Survey the system and determine what components need changing. If a kit is
available from the original manufacturer your job is made easier. If not, review
each component and make a judgment call.
The following parts are discussed further in this section:
1. Compressor
2. Condenser
3. Receiver-Dxrier
4. Expansion Valve
5. Evaporator
6. Hoses
7. Seals and “O” Rings
8. Service Ports
1. Compressor
Some compressor manufacturers are suggesting their products can be
used with R-134a after draining out the R-12 mineral oil. Although this
may be a recommendation, it may not be backed with a warranty. Use
your own judgment here or let the customer make the call.
12-1
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