Re: [DML] A/C gas types

["Dave Swingle" <swingle@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Realizing that you are in the UK, some of the legal discussion may not apply---

R12 is not particularly flammable, unless you get one of the R-
12 "replacements" that can be high in propane content. I'm not scared 
of them, anything gas that leaks like this is in such low 
concentration that flammability is not an issue. It's often used as a 
scare tactic. The primary drawback to the "drop in" replacements is 
that they are blends of gases that don't all leak out at the same 
rate, and most commercial shops will turn you away once they 
determine that they are used. If you are a 100% do-it-yourselfer this 
is only an issue to whomever you sell the car to. 

R12 is not illegal to use. It is illegal to manufacture, and it is 
illegal to put it in a system that is known to be leaky. 

I've not heard of R24, it's probably not in common use in the US.

R134 works well for many people if properly installed. It will cool 
almost as well and many people seem satisfied with it. It is much 
cheaper. It is more prone to leaking thru old hoses, it does run at 
higher pressure. Ideally you'd replace all the hoses, sweep the 
system, change the oil, etc. If done improperly it will work for a 
while and then gook up the system. 

All things being equal if you can get R12 at a reasonable price AND 
keep the system sealed, it's the way to go. If not, R134  - if done 
right - is an acceptable solution. 

Dave Swingle

--- In dmcnews@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx, "Chris Hawes" <chris@xxxx> wrote:
> I am nearing the end of rebuilding my aircon system (evaporator 
blew) and 
> wondering what gas would be best.
> 
> From what I understand:-
> 
> R12:-
> + low pressure, less strain on the seals throughout the system.
> - illegal, flammable.
> 
> R24 or is it RS24:-
> + low pressure, less strain on the seals throughout the system.
> - rots the seals.
> 
> R134a:-
> + non-flammable
> - does not run as cold, runs at higher pressure therefore more 
likely to 
> find leaks.
> 
> I have got the above pro's and con's correct.  What should I go for?
> 
> Thanks
> 
> Chris H.
> vin 5255








To address comments privately to the moderating team, please address:
moderators@xxxxxxxxxxx

For more info on the list, tech articles, cars for sale see www.dmcnews.com

To search the archives or view files, log in at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dmcnews 
Yahoo! Groups Links

<*> To visit your group on the web, go to:
    http://groups.yahoo.com/group/dmcnews/

<*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
    dmcnews-unsubscribe@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

<*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to:
    http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/