Auto Air Conditioning & Heater Repair: Honda Accord Air Con Repair, 134a freon, r 12 freon

Question
Greetings, A really great site and thanks for your time. Problem is as follows: 97 Honada Accord has a R134 leak. Last summer took months to leak down for a recharge. This year it can take a can of 134 every two weeks. Took it to a local garage and his diagnosis was a leak in the evaporator core. He tells me that this assembly as well as the associated expansion valve are all one unit and must be changed out at the same time. Me being cynical, I called Autozone as well as the dealer and these parts are obtainable seperately. His projected bill was $710.00 (!)all inclusive (P/L and recharge). system)The Honda dealer quoted $600 so I doubt I will use this guy. The dealer Mech did say that you might as well change both if your in there. I can see the logic there. Now, not being a mechanic by trade, I think that this guy is way out there. Is this a job I could tackle at the on-base auto shop with mechanics available for consultation or is it better left to a garage (reasonable prices of course)? Sorry to ramble on, but thanks for your assist if able,
TSgt T. House USAF (Res)
Charleston SC

Answer
This job is NOT that difficult. However, It IS time consuming, Especially IF you have NEVER done one.

If anyone in your shop on base has any A/C experience, ASK Him or Her their opinion BEFORE you commit yourself.

I am NOT sure IF your A/C system uses the old style R-12 freon or not. If it DOES, You should and most likely will have to convert the system over to the NEW R-134a freon system.


You will need the following tools:

1. A set of manifold (A/C gages).

2. A vacuum pump.

3. A leak detector.

4. If converting from R-12 to R-134a, An R-134a retro-fit kit.

5. 2 extra cans of R-134a freon.

6. A pair of SAFETY GLASSES.

7. LOTS OF PATIENCE.


I TOTALLY agree that you should change the EXPANSION VALVE along with the EVAPORATOR. I have seen to many expansion valves either make noise (hissing and or gurgling) AFTER the evaporator was replaced and they had to go back in and replace it.

If it was a simple task to replace the expansion valve I would say that you could probably get away without replacing it and IF it did make noise later on, you could simply take 10 minutes and replace it.

However, On a Honda this means taking the whole system apart AGAIN.


I TOTALLY agree that you should DEFINATELY replace BOTH.


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