AC retrofit delimma.

[MalcolmY]

Hello all.

I have a 1990 FJ70 3F Landcruiser. The AC service fittings are directly on the compressor (10PA15C).

Retrofitting R-12 to R-134a should be easy, but I bought a couple of different fitting kits. My problem is with the high side conversion adapter, it doesn't include a valve. Nor is there any teeth for the valve to screw it.

So, I have to keep the valve inside the original fitting. The issue here is that the quick connect R-134a fitting wouldn't reach the valve to push it. I think that's because the service fitting is directly on the compressor and there's no room behind it for the new fitting to screw in. So the new fitting would bottom out early leaving a long-ish gap up top.

How did you guys deal with it. Should I look for a long R-134a retrofit fitting (similar to the low/suction side one but for the high side)?

Thanks.

 

[flintknapper]

You need to find a retrofit service port that is threaded to accept a schrader valve. Provided there is room on the manifold (the top plate that has the service ports) then you would simply remove the schrader valve from the R12 port, install it in the new 16mm Hi Side Retrofit Adapter For 1/4" R12 Port . Then screw the new adapter onto the old one.

A picture of your manifold would be helpful.

 

[MalcolmY]

Here are a few pictures. I already have the low side retrofitted.

 

[flintknapper]

Hard to tell from the camera angle but it looks as if you 'might' have an issue with interference on the remaining side.

The line entering the compressor is pretty close to the port on the manifold. So IF the picture is not deceiving it looks as if you will need to source a short straight adapter or a 90°. Because once installed you will still need room to attach the coupler from your A/C gauge (hose).

But it looks 'doable' to me.

The adapter you have on the other side is quite long....but shouldn't pose any problems.

Advance Auto Parts - Down for Maintenance


Advance Auto Parts - Down for Maintenance

 

[MalcolmY]

Thanks!

Are you sure it's 1/4? I measured the ports one was 7/16 and the other was 3/8.

 

[flintknapper]

Thanks!

Are you sure it's 1/4? I measured the ports one was 7/16 and the other was 3/8.

No, I can't be sure...based solely on a photo. Only by what is most common.

Remember you are dealing with 'Flare Fittings' of which the published 'name' is not the true size (measurement).

Presumably they have 45° 'seats'...but that might not hold true either.

A male 1/4" Flare Fitting will measure (threads outside to outside) right at 7/16".

This chart might help you determine what you have:


https://www.clagrills.com/grillpartshelp/glossary/flare-fitting.htm

Typically the low side port will be 1/4", the high side might be 1/4" also but can be smaller (sometimes 3/16")