ss1le02

iTrader: (4)

I know you don't "have" to disconnect the system. However I don't want to bend or crack any of the lines. What's the best way to purge and refill?

2xLS1

iTrader: (25)

You need to pull a vacuum on the system for about 30 minutes. I use an old refrigerator compressor for a vacuum pump. Fill with 2 12oz cans of R134A freon. I get my freon for 2.99/can, so I agree it is a lot easiet to remove the radiator and condenser as an assembly to get it out of the way during cam installs. It only adds $6 to the cost and gives you a lot more room to work. I'll probably get flamed for saying that.

ss1le02

iTrader: (4)

Any other ways to pull a vacuum on the system. I don't have a old refrigerator pump. Also, do you purge it by the radiator and fill it at the canister? I just went out and looked at how you could leave it connected. I realize you can unbolt the canister, but it seems to me that you would have to hang the radiator over the fender if the hoses are still attached. No way do I want to scratch the fender.

2xLS1

iTrader: (25)

I hook up my A/C manifold gauges to both the high and low side and crack the valves just slightly let the freon escape out the middle hose very slowly so I don't loose any oil out of the system. When pulling a vacuum, I hook up both the high and low side hoses and open both valves. When refilling only add freon to the low side. (canister) The vacuum will suck in alot of the first can without even turning on the A/C. They make a venturi type vacuum pump you hook up to an air compressor. I've seen them for around $60. If you don't have the tools for servicing A/C systems, and you still want to pull the condenser, perhaps you shoould take it to a shop to get it recharged.

ss1le02

iTrader: (4)

I don't have the tools. If I purge it, then install the cam, should I get it recharged right away. I guess what I'm asking is will I do any damage to the system if I just release all the freon. Once again how do I purge it?

Mach Go

Once you open the system air and non-condesables will enter the A/C system...purging is NOT an option...you will never be able to purge all of the air out properly. The system MUST be evacuated with a vacuum pump...I'd highly advise you to have someone with A/C training/certification to recharge your system. It doesn't take much air/non-condensables to totally screw up your A/C.
Just a note...releasing "Freon" into the atmosphere is a direct violation of EPA laws...just to let you know. <img border="0" title="" alt="[Wink]" src="gr_images/icons/wink.gif" />

Cal

iTrader: (1)

Does all of this apply to the older A/C systems such as found on a 1993 Fbody?

ss1le02

iTrader: (4)

</font><blockquote><font size="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">quote:</font><hr /><font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Originally posted by ss1le02:
<strong> Once again how do I purge it? </strong></font><hr /></blockquote><font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Canister or Condenser to release/purge/evacuate?

2xLS1

iTrader: (25)

</font><blockquote><font size="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">quote:</font><hr /><font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Just a note...releasing "Freon" into the atmosphere is a direct violation of EPA laws...just to let you know.</font><hr /></blockquote><font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">So is running with out cats, so let's all put cats back on our cars. <img border="0" title="" alt="[Smile]" src="gr_stretch.gif" />

By purging, if you mean getting the freon out of the system, either valve will release it. They are just schrader valves like on a tire valve stem. Just make sure there are no EPA Police watching you do it. <img border="0" title="" alt="[Big Grin]" src="gr_grin.gif" />

Mach Go

</font><blockquote><font size="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">quote:</font><hr /><font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">So is running with out cats, so let's all put cats back on our cars. </font><hr /></blockquote><font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">I wouldn't go that far...but you won't get a $50,000 fine for not having cats on... <img border="0" title="" alt="[Big Grin]" src="gr_grin.gif" />
To answer your question CAL...yes, the same applies to ALL automobile A/C systems.
In regards to the original purging question, I assumed we were talking about purging the air out with the refrigerant after reconnecting the condenser.

ss1le02

iTrader: (4)

</font><blockquote><font size="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">quote:</font><hr /><font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Originally posted by Mach Go:
<strong>
In regards to the original purging question, I assumed we were talking about purging the air out with the refrigerant after reconnecting the condenser. </strong></font><hr /></blockquote><font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">No, I'm talking about the refrigerant. Of the 2 valves which one is the proper one to release it from, or doesn't it matter? <img border="0" title="" alt="[Confused]" src="images/icons/confused.gif" />

Rob Mattingly

Actually, the fine for removing a cat is up to 25,000 a day. I used to work at an exhaust shop.. <img border="0" title="" alt="[Wink]" src="gr_images/icons/wink.gif" />

ss1le02

iTrader: (4)

This isn't a post about cats. BTW, no cats on my car.

Dave Carney

</font><blockquote><font size="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">quote:</font><hr /><font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Originally posted by ss1le02:
<strong> However I don't want to bend or crack any of the lines. </strong></font><hr /></blockquote><font size="2" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">You won't. You're worrying for nothing.

ss1le02

iTrader: (4)

If you don't disconnect, then what do you do with the condensor/radiator?

MyLS1Hauls

iTrader: (2)

All you have to do is disconnect the radiator and remove it. You can then lower the condenser down to the ground. It will be just low enough to remove the cam. The last time I changed cams, I did crack the line at the top of the condenser, but I just wasnt careful enough. Take your time and it will be fine.