Alright y'all I have an older 91 Lardeo with the old R12 system in it that the air no longer blows cold. Its almost in the summer month heat here in SC and I wanna get to finally fixing the old R12 system but I don't know where to begin hunting for a problem. I know I could always just roll down the windows but last summer that still wasn't good in stop and go traffic. I'm a pretty confident wrench turner but have just never dealt with A/C issues Please help me out here y'all.

 

Pickup a UV Dye kit at the local parts place. Follow instructions. A simple quick look around will sometimes help locate the leak. Look around the condenser (in front of radiator) for dirt/oil buildup. The oil will attract dirt. Check all fittings for grime also.

Quick and dirty will be to fill with a 134a kit, and spray "Mr Bubble" (kids bubble solution in the large jugs) around all the fittings and parts looking for leaks. Proper way would be to find leaks, fix and change compressor, drier and flush out system. Evacuate and fill with proper amount of 134a and new oil.

 

1. Find and fix the leak. Look real close at the hoses and fittings.

2. Flush the system, vacuum, and fill with R134A. Don't change any hardware unless it has failed.

 

Are the UV dye kits safe to run into the R12 system and can I drive it after that without risk of tearing anything
up? It's my only way around so I don't wanna burn anything up. Thanks