Posted this before but no replies, maybe my post title was misleading, couldn't edit title. Here goes..


I need your advice.

My 1993 XJS 6.0 V12 coupe has a faulty air conditioning compressor.

It was one of the last models fitted with R12 refrigerant.

The compressor leaks at the end nearest the drive belt.

It seems like my options are replacement compressor or attempt to repair the compressor (assuming appropriate seal kit is available).

I have read quite a bit about air con on this and other Jaguar forums.

I know R12 not available so my options seem either R134a or an R12 replacement.

I am leaning towards either R406a (mix of R22/142b/600a) or Isceon MO49 (R413a - a mix of R218/134a/600a)

My existing compressor is Sanden SD709 (unsure of type number)

I am aware Sanden seem to have good reputation and current model is SD7H15

as to Jaguar part numbers there seems to be a lot of confusion regarding MHE7300AA or
MHE7300AB

Some say the model for 4.0l won't fit 6.0l but is incorrectly listed as compatible on certain supplier sites.

I need your advice regarding my concerns above.

 

It never ceases to amaze me that people want to use something other then r134a to replace r12. I retrofitted my system to r134a 6 years ago here in Florida and mine blows so cold you have to run the fans on "low". Those other refrigerants you mention are not readily available at any old department/discount store or auto parts store. R134a is readily available just about everywhere, is the recommended replacement and can be readily purchased in large or small quantities. All a/c service centers use it and there's no "explaining" to do with future owners and using other then approved refrigerant will void most compressor warranties. There's even people who use "canned air" used to clean keyboards! WTH?

http://www.brighthubengineering.com/...2-refrigerant/

 

Ah yes, that'd be me!

FYI - SOME brands of "canned air" (dusters) are 100% R134a ..(not all though, most are R152a)

Canned air of the R134a flavour is a good alternative for do-it-yourself A/C repair in countries that ban the sale of "regular" R134a to anyone who doesn't have a refrigeration license (like Canada for instance).

where there's a will etc

cheers


Larry

 

Thanks for taking the trouble to reply.
I am aware that R134a is widely available and the alternatives aren't.
Your testimony to how cold your air con is when converted , especially in Florida makes me think maybe it would be simpler to go this route.

Although I read R134a is being phase out in 2017 so we may all be looking for other alternatives in a couple of years!

 

Paul, mine without a doubt is fridged with r134 in it. It's a pretty small cabin and a fairly large compressor/evaporator. As far as a phase out the local Walmart sells r134 for $6 a can, time to stock up!

 

Just curious...is your compressor mounted where the OEM compressor was (at the front middle of the "V")?

Thanks,

John
1987 XJ-S V12

 

Yes John.