So I decided to reseal the A/c compressor, flush lines, replace dryer, etc as part of my big maintenance list and get the A/C running. I peaked at the condenser and it looks ok. There is some oxidation on the fins, but all look intact. What are your experiences with a vintage condenser? I am going to refill the system with R-12 (I have about 34 pounds).
Thanks,
Lee
Need for new condenser?
Mine 1986 had been converted to R134. I suspected a leak in the evaporator, but it turned out to be in one of the ports. I was getting hits on the freon detector near the firewall so I replaced the expansion valve as well.
After that, tested to see if it would hold vacuum and all was well. So my advice is to evacuate and see how well it holds vacuum before replacing the condenser.
After that, tested to see if it would hold vacuum and all was well. So my advice is to evacuate and see how well it holds vacuum before replacing the condenser.
1986 951 - Silicon Valley
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Tom
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The 944 A/C system is pretty strong (over-compensating for years of super weak 911 systems maybe 
). That said, all the little things add up for a/c. With r134a, you can use the stock condenser and the system will still function, but a modern 'parallel flow' condenser will work better by design. I went through my whole system a few years back and went to r134a with a Griffiths parallel flow condenser, and couldn't be happier with the results. If the system isn't running or only cooling 'ok' now, then switching to 134a without doing anything else might leave you disappointed.
https://www.carpokes.com/viewtopic.php?t=37
https://www.carpokes.com/viewtopic.php?t=425
). That said, all the little things add up for a/c. With r134a, you can use the stock condenser and the system will still function, but a modern 'parallel flow' condenser will work better by design. I went through my whole system a few years back and went to r134a with a Griffiths parallel flow condenser, and couldn't be happier with the results. If the system isn't running or only cooling 'ok' now, then switching to 134a without doing anything else might leave you disappointed.https://www.carpokes.com/viewtopic.php?t=37
https://www.carpokes.com/viewtopic.php?t=425
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zooklm1
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Thank you for the inputs. Since I have a lot of R-12, I am not changing over to 134 and don’t need the parallel flow capability. I will roll with what I have and see how it holds once I am done with the compressor/ cleaning.