I took my car to Pep boys yesterday morning before I left on a 5 hour drive for a business trip. I wanted to get my AC checked out and recharged if it appeared to work. They just fixed a leaky schrader valve and gave me a recharge. For 30 bucks I have AC! I am so excited about that... I am 23 years old and have never had AC (working) in my personal vehicle.

Tell you what, that trip would have been BRUTAL if I had the windows down the entire time hahah

GOOD MAXIMA, GOOD!!!

 

Congrats on the A/C. It is good to air conditioning.

 

Thanks,

Yea I have been keeping like a meat locker in there.
I haven't yet checked my gas mileage, but it doesn't seem to be affecting the power or mileage much.
In my old cavalier, when I turned on the AC (just the compressor as it had no refrigerant) the motor seemed to loose about 15HP lol

 

i need a re-charge, pep boys did it for $30??? dam! mine has a hole, but do not know where. im calling pep boys tonight!

 

I think I'll go have them check my squeaky belts. Then I can turn on the AC too. Right now I am scared that something will die on me, so have to drive with the windows down. I hate doing that.

 

Speaking of no ac, quick question here. My compressor recently seized - belt started frying, smoking, etc.

Is it worth a try to get a junkyard compressor & replace the drier & expansion valve? Or did a bunch of crap get into the system that will just ruin the "new" compressor anyway. Any advice?

 

if you do try a used compressor, make sure you get a new expansion valve and drier. You may also want to invest in a screen to catch some particles before they get into the compressor and screw it up.
A flush also wouldn't be a bad idea

 

Or just junk it in interest of weight loss, and roll down the windows...i bet you could lose at least 50+ lbs., not to mention the horsepower you gain by not having to turn that extra belt....

 

the weight loss only amounts to 30lbs or so and that's if you pull EVERYTHING A/C related.
the compressor only weighs 19lbs. and the HP gain is only about 1-2 hp with the clutch disengaged

 

This is only for the serious fanatic. How do you know when you get to that point? You have one seat in the car, no carpet, no headliner, no stereo, no door panels, no spare tire or jack, no HVAC system, no power steering... Until then, keep the comfort.

 

I know a 4th gen guy did that. he removed all that and cruise, said throttle responce is pretty much instant now. But isnt it a race car now, insted of a 4dsc?

~Alex

 

MMmmmm....Did they mention anything about the system being an R12 type ?
I know mine is and R12 is no longer sold.

I know there are alternatives, I'm just wondering.

 

it true R12 is no longer sold,

it is R134 know,

 

Anyone know what is involved in changing the expansion valve? Is it a difficult job?

 

R12 is definetly sold. What do u think runs in your central cooling at your home.

 

R12 is sold...but it's not being PRODUCED. that means the "virgin" R12 source is no longer there. what you buy is leftover old stock or recycled R12.

you would also need a license to buy R12

 

Is there an equivalent to R134 that you dont need licence for?

 

i don't believe you need a license for R134a

 

In Canada you do. Stupid Government.

 

corrected

 

Errrrr...... I believe it's R22 that is used mainly for home and commercial cooling.

 

For a rebuilt compressor at a pretty damn good price, check out www.discountacparts.com for a 91 you can pick one up for 285. sounds like alot but check prices. I got one there for my Fiancees 92 civic, like 200 less than my mechanic friend can get it for and great customer service.

 

you are both right

 

I can meet / beat that