Ok. Here's where I am: My Suzi's a/c wasn't working. Since it has old-fashioned ports, I assume it's an old Freon-type system. I bought a retro-fit kit and located the low-pressure valve (I assume it is the low-pressure valve, but, since the cans didn't explode, I guess I am right - if standing in the driver door: It should be the valve on the right-hand side, connecting to the front of the compressor. Caution: The R-134a low-pressure adapter fits on either port. A short push on the valve revealed the complete system to be dry - nothing in there, no pressure. No wonder the compressor wasn't kicking in. After connecting the retro-fit R-134a bottle for a few seconds, the compressor engaged, the fan in the back started and the pressure gauge read about 5 PSI. My problem: Even though Suzi now has 3 cans of retro-fit R-134a in the system (pressure in idle is now ok), the compressor works only about every 45 seconds or so, for just about 10 seconds. The result: Cold air coming out of the vents, but as soon as the compressor switches off, the air returns to ambient temperature. Anything else I could check? Thanks. Michaela
Just my two cents, but It sounds like it needs more freon, although 3 cans is quite a bit IMO. Only way to tell is by adding more or getting the specs for your model. -Greg
3 cans (I assume 16oz each) is way too much for this small system. Most don't take much more than 1 can. While doing our retrofits on Kei's, we usually end up around 14-16 oz. total. I believe if you attach some guages, you will see the high side pressure skyrocket until the high pressure switch kicks the compressor off. Also, you must introduce the freon into a vacuumed out system. Air and moisture are one sure way to have a short lived and poorly functioning A/C system. We charge $10 for evacuation, and $15 for a 30min vacuum. Check around your area for a good deal, OR find a way to pull a good vacuum by some other means.
Yeah, my 1991 Suzuki arrived dry as well. I think they must remove the R-12 before shipping because the one valve didn't have a cap on it but the threads were perfectly clean. I think it is also illegal to import or add R-12 in Canada for several years. I'm fortunate that my father in law is an AC guy and he used his magical tools to vacuum out the system, check for leaks and add about 12oz of Duracool which is supposed to be a bit better for R-12 systems. I guess R-134a has smaller molecules and is prone to leaking out of R-12 systems. Plus Duracool can use the same compressor, condenser, etc... He did think the system cycled a bit quick as well but thought it should be fine. Also there must be a low pressure switch because the AC light didn't come on when the switch was pressed, before the system was recharged. I guess I will see when I get my electrical manual in a few days.
