134 conversion?

[kroberts]

I bought a new (to me) dash today. I'm going to run the A/C in my swap car when it's done. While the dash is out, I'm going to replace the expansion valve. What else should I change? What is usually changed when you pay a shop to do a r134 conversion? Aside from a new compressor, dont they change all the o-rings? Do I need to buy a different expansion valve or will the standard E30 valve work?

Thanks,

kr

[bdi_fc]

I bought a new (to me) dash today. I'm going to run the A/C in my swap car when it's done. While the dash is out, I'm going to replace the expansion valve. What else should I change? What is usually changed when you pay a shop to do a r134 conversion? Aside from a new compressor, dont they change all the o-rings? Do I need to buy a different expansion valve or will the standard E30 valve work?

Thanks,

kr

I converted an 1989 325is with an S52 to R134a and it worked fine.

I would check www.realoem.com/bmw for your car and see if it's rated for 134a. I know all the cars from this era came with R12, but a lot of the parts are 134a compatible per BMW.

See the attached image within the red circle--notice how it says R12/R134 or just R12.

[kroberts]

Bought an expansion valve and an o-ring kit today from a local auto A/C supply shop. Valve was $26, and rated for r134. That valve is really a tight fit. I cant see how you'd get it out with the dash installed. I'm going to have to come up with some type of foam to seal the cover. the old stuff was pretty dry-rotted.

[Ray Smoodiver]

I know lathrop did this, don't you have to change the dryer and condensor too? I am unsure why though.

[SpecM]

-When you open an A/C system, it can absorb water, which will collect in the rec/dryer. You should replace it, but not the condenser.

[PiercedE30]

+1, all your really need to replace when you open the a/c system is the drier. might want to replace the pressure valve/sensor while your at it.

[kylebes1]

M50 e30 with a.c
yummm

[bdi_fc]

+1, all your really need to replace when you open the a/c system is the drier. might want to replace the pressure valve/sensor while your at it.

Agreed. Dryer must be replaced if the dryer is not closed off and remains exposed to the open atmosphere.

[bwh13]

Only thing you need to do is change the oil in the compressor to 134a compatible. Condensor, etc will work just fine. Change the dryer if you need to. Have a slight overcharge put in the system to raise the head pressure, this will help the system pull more heat from the air...