Has anyone had an experience with converting their A/C from R12 to R134 in a series III XJ6? any ideas, suggestions or advice would be welcomed.

 

R12 is optimal. The condenser and fan are quite small. If you can stick with R12, then do so.

 

I have converted numerous over the years, mainly S2 XJ6, and heaps of V12's. S3 XJ6 is the same basic system as S2.

Initially I did the retro as per 'experts" in the field, retaining the old compressor (big **** black dinosaur), and not so happy, the front seal is just not good enough for the R134a pressure increase.

Now I do it "my way".

Compressor change to a Sanden (lower bracket modification required, which is SIMPLE), new hoses (usually eliminating the fuel cooler), new R134a TX valve, new R134a drier. Flush the evaporator whilst the TX valve is OFF.

Vac it down, recharge as per the gauges (not the sight glass), over gassing is no good, and I always get 4c or better at the vent.

I have NEVER changed the condensor, although many, many people disagree with me, so be it, if I can get 4c at the vent in our 47c+ summer, it cannot be rocket science, I am NOT that special.

The engine fan clutch drive is CRITICAL to this cooling temp, so if in doubt renew it, or install twin thermo fans as I do mostly.

The heater tap integrity is also CRITICAL for low a/c temps, so again, if in doubt, replace it, and ensure it is closing 100% when requested.

My '85 XJ-S V12 is 4c at the vent and has been that way since 1996, the S2 Daimler 4.2 is 3c and tooooo bloody cold, the S2 XJ6 is 4c and cold as you want, the S2 XJ12 is 4c mostly, but being a part time driver NEVER gets used enough to worry too much, the '88 XJ40 is 3c and the daughter complains it is too cold on her feet, so I blocked those vent openings. The X300 is 3c at the vent. The '64 S Type is 5c at the vent mostly, and being a home made system I am not unhappy with that temp.

 

Sounds like good info Grant.
I'm going to add it to the FAQ's

 

thanks all, still thinking. New ? need to install a new head liner in same XJ6. what am I facing? I have never done this before. have a source for the material cut to shape by experts.

 

Head liner, HAHAHAHAHA.

My days of twisting and flexing inside a car are LONG gone.

Took the XJ12, S2 Daimler, S Type, XJ-S, X300 to a trimmer each time it was required to replace that liner, and they cost about $350 each, works for me. An excellant job in each car.

 

G'day an greetings from Houston Texas. Circumnavigated the whole continent of Australia and found it marvelous People very friendly and lots of fun!
Have a few questions on your conversion. I have a '93 XJS six and planning to convert to R134 or R152 (Computer Dust Off)
What did you do about the compressor oil?
Did you flush the compressor?
Did you flush the system?
What compressor had the bad seal and required changing?
Any other detail you feel are significant.
Thanks.
A tamed Yank

 

Grant,




What's the source for the TX valve. Are you replacing or having yours recalibrated.