R12 freon

[robbandstuff]

Hi, I'm sure this has been discussed at some point. But my 3 owner, 80k Mille, 1968 4-door Landau (with 1st year optional, automatic climate control) still has its r12 freon. It's getting ready to go in for its (2023) annual "once over" with my t- bird mechanic for a couple of minor check up's and problem corrections.
My question is, do I keep it stock with its R12 freon or should I just have him go ahead and do the 134 conversion? I'm kinda torn with making the decision.
I don't think the value will be diminished by doing the conversion, but I am curious as to the forum members thoughts on the subject.

[OlDirty]

I often hear that R12 should blow colder, but I'm happy with mine with R134.
Another thing to keep in mind is, that some O-rings will need to be changed when switching to R134.
Oh and R12 is bad for nature.

[stove]

R134a conversion is not the best route. It is a very inefficient refrigerant when used in systems designed to have R12,
due to it running MUCH higher head pressures, which the early systems were never designed to mitigate.

Just check your compressor oil level, make sure the clutch engages, vacuum the system down for 12 hours. and charge with the
appropriate quantity of Enviro-Safe (the conversion is 6oz. of ES is equivalent to 18 oz. R12).

The system will work, and work extremely well assuming your expansion valve isn't stuck (rare).

I would also suggest adding a UV tracer dye to the system, so when (if) it leaks out, you can find and fix the leak prior to recharging.
Furthemore on the subject of leaks, the ES refrigerant has a much larger molecule than R12 & R134a, so is significantly less leak prone.
I can't sing the praises of this stuff enough. And for those of you concerned about the implications or "dangers" of running a
Hydrocarbon based refrigerant, try doing a Google on what R1234yf is... Which has phased out R134a

https://www.es-refrigerants.com/?site=dom

[455hota]

Stove, i read your post and you have peaked my interest. I went to the Enviro Safe website, but i did not see a product listed as an R12 alternative. Were you mentioning to use the ES R134a product in an R12 system as you described above in your post? A little further clarification would be great!! Thanks.

[stove]

Yes, due to Gestapo EPA regulation, they were required to stop labeling it as R12 replacement.

Yes use their "R134a" replacement.

You will love it!!