quote:Originally posted by Panterror:
I actually was just going to remove the AC altogether and save the weight but I’m getting old so I guess it stays. Looking for info and posts from anyone that has relocated their AC condenser to the front of the car and used the R-12 substitutes such as Hot Shot, Freeze 12, etc., and/or performed the R-134 conversion.
Specifically:1. On the condenser move to the front, I’m not looking for any debate about which condenser location is better. I have a set of 180s exiting in the stock condenser location so the condenser move is a foregone conclusion. I already have a very nice condenser that will package up nicely up front.
2. Do the R-12 substitutes perform well and with standard AC hardware? Some claim full R-12 compatibility and others say they require evacuation and filter/desiccant change and/or evac.
3. I actually have a working R-12 system but will need to disassemble it in the move. Is anyone still collecting and reissuing R-12?
4. On the R-134 swap, it would certainly be an easy time for me to do it. I have the (new) condenser performance for it, and will already need to move and replace the desiccant and replumb everything (with hard lines where possible). I also have an Sanden rotary compressor, albeit R-12, but at least mounting bracketry and pulley work is done. After all that will already need to be done, it’s not much more work to change the swap compressors (or maybe just seals)and the expansion valve. For those that have made the move to R-134, were you happy with it?
I searched but the forum seemed a little thin on the topic most post were quite old so not much use for the R-12 bits.
Best,
K
I just relocated my condenser to the front of my Pantera and used Redtek, which is a R12/R134 drop in replacement. It works just like R12 and only runs a bit higher on the low side then R12. I have also been using it in one of my pickup trucks for years and it seems to be just as good as R12.
I had used Redtek in the Pantera for a number of years and had good luck with it when the condenser was in the back. What I did find is that after the ambient temperature got above 100 degrees, the air conditioner did not perform very well. At this time I am waiting for some near 100 degree days to test the new system, which I am sure will work as expected.