Not to get in to a long thread on this, but this is really a matter of opinion. I think it may be covered well in the back issues. R-12 has actually dropped in price over the years. My local pep boys sells a 12oz can for about $10.00 (You need a license to buy it). The most common conversion is to R-134a. The R-134a does cost a bit less than the R-12, and SOME will argue that it is safer for the ozone. If R-12 is handled properly and the AC system is kept in good repair, then there is no ozone issue. R-134a runs about 70% higher pressure than R-12, so it is required that all of the O ring seals are replaced. The compressor was not designed for this higher pressure, so your 17 year old compressor may also not be too happy with the R134-a. Also know that R-134a does not get as cold as R-12, and for those of us who have been in the DMC on a hot day know the cooler the better! For a proper conversion, the system must be well flushed. If you simply remove the R-12, replace the seals, and recharge you will be replacing the compressor within a year. This is due to the mineral oil that is used with R-12. When R-134a mixes with the oil, it turns to a sludge that will clog the orifice and dryer. R-134a is great for a car that was designed for it. The DeLorean was not. Stick with R-12. There are other alternatives that claim to be R-12 direct replacements but be careful of them. Many contain propane which works great as a R-12 replacement, but if you have a small leak in the AC system it can explode and be a funeral for a DMC owner, and no one wants that to happen. Also be careful of buying R-12 from sources that are unknown, because very often it is a R-12/Propane blend. Again, the Propane can explode. DO NOT USE ANY PRODUCT WITH PROPANE (or the likes of) IN IT! There are some other "snake oil" types of replacement, but I have never met someone who actually tried it. I have also never seen any unbiased test results.. (But, I have not looked that hard... R-12 works, why change?) All IMHO, I am dont claim to be a expert, and dont even play one on TV. Marc Michel Poulin wrote: > > As a side note: If you have to re-charge your freon, look into the new > Enviro-friendly alternitive. I don't recall the name, but your local > auto-parts supply place should have all the details and equipment you > need. It's cheaper then the old bad stuff and you don't need a license to > handel the new stuff. BUT You do need a license to empty the OLD stuff. > But if you have to get it recharged anyways, then you'd have to go to a > licensed shop to get the work done anyways. > Enjoy! > -=mike=- > ------------------------------------------------------------------------ eGroups.com home: http://www.egroups.com/group/dmcnews http://www.egroups.com - Simplifying group communications