How to Retrofit an Auto A/C System

The steps in this article tells you how to retrofit an A/C system in your vehicle. This will only work if you air still comes on but no longer provides cool air. The type of parts you need depends on the type of vehicle you need. It is very important to check with an licensed professional for anything that you may be confused about.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A/C retrofit kit for R-134 refrigerant
• Refrigerant
• New dryer
• Oil charge

1. Contact a licensed professional to evacuate the freon from your system. A machine called a recovery machine is needed for this step and if you don't have one, you can't do this step on your own.

2. Change out the dryer in your car. Make sure to purchase the correct one from your local auto parts store. There are "o" rings with the new dryer that also needs to be replaced. If you don't know where your dryer is located, ask a professional.

3. Have your A/C system vacuumed out to remove atmosphere from the system.

4. Use the instructions from the retrofit kit to install it.

5. Turn on the car and blast the A/C. Add the oil charge. Add the necessary amount of refrigerants. Make sure not to overfill.

6. Keep the car and A/C running until cool air starts to flow.

Tips & Warnings

• If the air doesn't get cool you may need to more refrigerant.
• If your car is a '96 or newer model, skip to step 2.
• Check with your local auto parts salesperson to see how much refrigerant that you need for your vehicle.
• Do not release refrigerant into the air. It is illegal.
• Do not cut corners. Failure to complete any of the steps above can cause damages to your system that will be very costly.