From my limited search/knowledge it looks like this should be possible. After all, in a few years everyone will need to use R-1234yf instead of the current R-134a without replacing their AC system. This is not unlike previous transition from R12 to R134a. Plus it is better for environment.
But I'm not sure, so asking here for people more knowledgeable.
The next question is about tools to do it at home as I used to do with R-134a. I already have the tools for R-134a and know how to troubleshoot and use them. Can I reuse them or do I need to buy new?
So far I know that car fittings are different, but that is Ok as long I do not use hoses specific for 1234yf, so reusing my hoses will do.
It looks like the canisters are same thread as the old ones, so I can reuse the tap and hose to the gauges manifold. Some cans keep the same thread, but most brands have switched to left hand thread for 1234yf.
The gauges looks like they are different, calibrated for the new gas. If I buy new ones I have to check if they accept generic 1/4 AC fittings to reuse my hoses or I'll have to buy some adapters.
For people that want to buy everything new, it looks like you can get a kit for 1234yf and buys some R1234yf to R134a adapters to hook up the car.
Why do I want to pay a lot more for R-1234yf than the 134a? Because in WA state you can no longer buy R-134a. My options are:
1. Pay a shop $200+ every time I need AC service for my 4 vehicles (includes only refill, not any other repair).
2. Smuggle in R-134a refrigerant from Idaho/Oregon/pretty much the entire USA.
3. Move to R-1234yf refrigerant, pay less than $150 for the tools and the first 3 cans of gas and only pay for gas in the future.
But I'm not sure, so asking here for people more knowledgeable.
The next question is about tools to do it at home as I used to do with R-134a. I already have the tools for R-134a and know how to troubleshoot and use them. Can I reuse them or do I need to buy new?
So far I know that car fittings are different, but that is Ok as long I do not use hoses specific for 1234yf, so reusing my hoses will do.
It looks like the canisters are
The gauges looks like they are different, calibrated for the new gas. If I buy new ones I have to check if they accept generic 1/4 AC fittings to reuse my hoses or I'll have to buy some adapters.
For people that want to buy everything new, it looks like you can get a kit for 1234yf and buys some R1234yf to R134a adapters to hook up the car.
Why do I want to pay a lot more for R-1234yf than the 134a? Because in WA state you can no longer buy R-134a. My options are:
1. Pay a shop $200+ every time I need AC service for my 4 vehicles (includes only refill, not any other repair).
2. Smuggle in R-134a refrigerant from Idaho/Oregon/pretty much the entire USA.
3. Move to R-1234yf refrigerant, pay less than $150 for the tools and the first 3 cans of gas and only pay for gas in the future.
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