Many of the vehicles operating on the roads today are filled with out-of-date R-12 refrigerant. The outdated fluid has been replaced by R-134 refrigerant, and while you can still purchase the older R-12, it is very expensive. For the most part, you can make the change and update your air conditioning system yourself. It is a straightforward process that will save you money in the long run.
Evacuate the system. You will need to drive to a qualified air-conditioning shop to have the old R-12 removed from your vehicle's air conditioning system. It is illegal to simply crack open a fitting and allow the gas to escape into the atmosphere. Once completed, you can drive your vehicle back to your residence to complete the conversion.
Install the new valve kit. The new valve adaptors (included in the kit) will connect to the old valves by snapping them into place. This is easily accomplished with the pressure removed from the system. Do not worry about mixing up the high (small) and low pressure (large) valves as they will only connect in one way.
Re-fill the system. Start the vehicle engine and turn the AC on as high as it will go. Using the rubber hose and T-valve that came with your kit, attach a can of R-134 refrigerant (included with the kit) to the low side (large) valve. Turn the T-valve on the rubber hose until you feel and hear it puncture the refrigerant can. Turn the can upside down and open the T-valve all the way until you see condensation forming on the low side hose. The AC should begin blowing cold air at this point. When the can is empty, close the T-valve and insert a new can (included with the kit) and repeat this process until this can is also empty. You are finished when the low pressure line is dripping with condensation and is cold. Remove the rubber hose from the new valve fitting. Close your hood and enjoy your AC.
