I'd like to get the AC going on my 1994 turbo wagon. The stickers on the drier indicate 134a -- so I'm sure I don't need to convert from R12 freon. The AC has worked in recent years -- but now it's feeble.
Do I just go down to Advance Auto and get some cans of 134a & hook up to that port on the side of the drier? Do I need to check the compressor / drier for "ester oil" levels? Do I need special tools / pumps / guages? Please spell out what I have to do -- Much Obliged --


Rob

I agree with PhilC, I would go the do it yourself route and add a small amount. Unfortunately, Volvo chose not to include a high pressure port in the system, so you cannot attach a conventional gauge set to read both high and low pressure. You can read low pressure, but it is not as sensitive as the high pressure reading. I also use an AC thermometer in the center vent to help me gauge how much to add. Ideally, she should blow at around 40 F while driving down the road, somewhat higher idling in your driveway on a 85 degree day.

Good luck. Mike

First you have to find out where it leaked from-- it's a sealed system. Once the leak is fixed, you will need to draw down a vacuum and see that it holds (ideally a couple hours, in practice often only a half hour). Then you fill by weight to the capacity of the system.

There are do-it-yourself products, but generally they won't produce the same result. Many AC shops offer and inexpensive service to identify the leaks, which often involves pressurizing the system with nitrogen.

Good luck!

If it were me, I'd go the do it yourself route. An a/c shop is going to charge at least $100. A re-charge kit is probably $20-25. You may only need a small charge. Worst case, you're out $25 and you haven't had to drive all over town and wait around for a diagnosis. I've done my Audi S8, my wife's Range Rover and both daughters' 940s. So far, so good!