240s and AC/freon

Discussion in 'Volvo 240' started by a0000222x, Jun 26, 2003.

  1. a0000222x

    a0000222x Guest

    Thank you for all your replies regarding my 240 hunt! I have found a
    few finds, mostly all have no working AC, and I am wondering about the
    possibility of recharging the existing R-12 (think that's right, the
    old one) AC system.

    I am in metro Los Angeles, and there are many good Volvo shops around
    here, however, I am unsure how this all works with the environmental
    laws. I get the freon myself and then try and find a mechanic who will
    work on it? Or will they most likely want to do conversion? Is this
    supposed to be clandestine and under the table or something? Should I
    make a trip to Mexico? This all assumes that a recharge is all these
    cars need, which could be utter blind faith but I am curious anyway.
    Thanks!

    bhr
     
    a0000222x, Jun 26, 2003
    #1
  2. a0000222x

    hnelson Guest

    The A/C in 240's did not work that well when they were new. I have had a
    couple of late 80's cars converted to R134 and it was relatively inexpensive
    (< $100 USD which was less than 2.5 lbs of R12) and worked well. If all the
    existing major components are working and if auto freon is legal in Mexico I
    imagine that you could get the system recharged and leaks fixed at an A/C
    shop there (TJ or Ensenada). Without the correct credentials you cannot
    purchase freon in the US and it is illegal to bring bulk freon into the US
    undeclared.
    If it were me I would drive the car without A/C (yes I live in Ca also and
    do drive a 245 without A/C). My next choice would be to convert it to R134
    but given what I have read I would not expect the A/C on a 240 to work very
    well due to its' design.

    Howard
    1985 245
    1993 945T
    1989 Mustang
     
    hnelson, Jun 26, 2003
    #2
  3. a0000222x

    James Sweet Guest

    Have it converted to R134A, I did it myself on my 740 and it wasn't hard,
    you'll have better luck in the longrun than if you try to charge it with
    R12.
     
    James Sweet, Jun 26, 2003
    #3
  4. Well, I think that AC repair people can still get freon, but it is not
    available over the counter. I have heard of people using a retrofit kit, to
    convert to r134a. I have seen these kits at stores like pep boys. I think
    the show two guys garage on speed tv did a show on the conversion, you may
    want to check out their website.

    I know that freon was being smuggled from Mexico, with all the cars in the
    south that are older and needing a recharge.
     
    Jeff Lesperance, Jun 26, 2003
    #4
  5. a0000222x

    Rojo2G Guest

    I know that freon was being smuggled from Mexico, with all the >cars in the
    south that are older and needing a recharge.
    Think about this. There is a reason its being smuggled.
    Those who do smuggle or use this older freon are indirectly causing
    enviromental damage. Including skin damage and eye damage to yourself, your
    immediate family and your grandchildren. Keep cool, let everyone else pay.
    Change it over.
     
    Rojo2G, Jun 28, 2003
    #5
  6. a0000222x

    volvowrench Guest

    Year before last R-12 was the number contraband seized by customs. Right
    behind cocaine.

    Bob
     
    volvowrench, Jun 29, 2003
    #6
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