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eagle23 · 09-04-2006, 09:32 AM

[QUOTE=454HO;1796850]If you ever anticipate an a/c service shop will work on your truck in the future, then either stick with the good old R-12 or the only EPA approved replacement R-134a. Most shops won't touch anything else. Their refrigerant recovery equipment is normally dedicated to either R-12 or R134a. Anything else will cause it to become 'contaminated' and will cost BIG $$$$ to deal with. Also remember that a/c compressors, as well as many other a/c components, are usually only warranted if they are used with R-12 or R-134a."

I think that's the most important consideration. However well intentioned using the substitute is, if the refrigerant is considered "contaminated" you will have cost yourself a whole bunch of money. Maybe not right away but later, and it could have been prevented.

One other idea is to ask an AC-specialty shop if the contamination issue is really an issue. I suspect it is, given how highly regulated they are by the refrigerant makers and feds, but it may be worth asking in the education process.

Keep us posted.

09-04-2006, 09:32 AM	#5
eagle23 Active Member Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Atlanta GA Posts: 174	Re: Enviro Safe A/C Refrigerants [QUOTE=454HO;1796850]If you ever anticipate an a/c service shop will work on your truck in the future, then either stick with the good old R-12 or the only EPA approved replacement R-134a. Most shops won't touch anything else. Their refrigerant recovery equipment is normally dedicated to either R-12 or R134a. Anything else will cause it to become 'contaminated' and will cost BIG $$$$ to deal with. Also remember that a/c compressors, as well as many other a/c components, are usually only warranted if they are used with R-12 or R-134a." I think that's the most important consideration. However well intentioned using the substitute is, if the refrigerant is considered "contaminated" you will have cost yourself a whole bunch of money. Maybe not right away but later, and it could have been prevented. One other idea is to ask an AC-specialty shop if the contamination issue is really an issue. I suspect it is, given how highly regulated they are by the refrigerant makers and feds, but it may be worth asking in the education process. Keep us posted.