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1990 Volvo 240 DL 134a needs some help

MMiller on Thu July 07, 2011 1:25 AM User is offline

Year: 1990
Make: Volvo
Model: 240
Refrigerant Type: 134a
Country of Origin: United States

I'll try not to make this too long...

About a year ago I had my 240 converted over from r12 to 134a. It got a new receiver/drier, expansion valve, all new lines that weren't made of metal, new o-rings/gaskets, and a fresh charge of 134a with ester oil. Basically everything was replaced except the big parts of the system. This resulted in vent temps of mid 50's F with recircl on and fan speed 3(out of 4). At the time I was just wanting something that would cool enough so I could drive down the freeway with the windows up and be comfortable, which this more or less accomplished.

Maybe it's just because it's been really hot in Georgia lately or I'm doing more around town driving but the A/C is basically hit or miss for in town stuff as to whether it's cooler with the a/c on or with the window's down. I know everything is working right because it will blow cool air from the vents it's just not cool enough when the car is 90+ from sitting in a parking lot and when it's 90+ outside.

So, to remedy this I was thinking of putting in a new parallel flow condensor(and a new drier since it sounds like that item always gets replaced when you open the system) in place of the old tube and fin condenser. I'm also going to install an electric fan in addition to the clutch fan. My question(s) for you guys do I also need to install a new compressor(I'm of the understanding 134a systems run at a higher pressure than r12 systems) or will just the new condenser do the job? I plan on keeping my car forever so I don't mind spending the money on whatever needs to be done to freeze me out. What say you?

bohica2xo on Thu July 07, 2011 8:54 AM User is offline

Glad to see someone planning on keeping a Brick forever.

Your plan to install a high capacity condensor is sound. Us as large a unit as you can fit, and make sure your OEM clutch fan is working properly. Adding an electric fan to augment the low speed airflow is also a good thing to do.

Make sure the new condensor is coupled to the heat exchanger stack. Air should not bypass the condensor on it's way to the fan.

The higher pressures in a 134a system are a direct result of an undersized condensor. Conversions run higher pressures because of this. Your compressor should be fine, unless it is noisy or has a lot of miles on it.

B.

-------------------------
"Among the many misdeeds of the British rule in India, history will look upon the act of depriving a whole nation of arms, as the blackest."
~ Mahatma Gandhi, Gandhi, An Autobiography, M. K. Gandhi, page 446.

Tzagi on Fri July 22, 2011 10:07 PM User is offline

The large condenser will help wonders.

Edited: Sat July 23, 2011 at 12:07 AM by Automotive Air Conditioning Information Moderator

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