LS - 1st and 2nd Gen (1990-2000) Discussion topics related to the 1990 - 2000 Lexus LS400

How well does the first gen LS AC work with R134a?

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Old 03-08-04, 02:16 PM
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nthach
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Default How well does the first gen LS AC work with R134a?

My AC system isn't charged, but there is a new compressor and clutch installed. If i change out the seals, and flush the system out, and change the drier, will R134a work in the first gen?
Old 03-08-04, 05:20 PM
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dj.ctwatt
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From my understanding, you need to have the system "retrofitted," and it is more complicated than just flushing the system. But I may be misinformed. . .
Old 03-08-04, 05:30 PM
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Please look at this---I use Maxi Frig in 4 cars--it is super, $6 per # and no oil change.--NOTE that you must have a vacuum pump---cannot install and mix with R12.

http://www.maxifrig.com/
Old 03-08-04, 06:54 PM
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nthach
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Originally posted by dj.ctwatt
From my understanding, you need to have the system "retrofitted," and it is more complicated than just flushing the system. But I may be misinformed. . .
at the minimum, the drier needs to be changed, the compressor oil needs to be changed out to BVA Auto 100, which is repackaged Texaco Capella HFC 100, and the O-rings changed out to R134a compatible ones.
Old 03-08-04, 09:16 PM
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dj.ctwatt
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Sounds like you know what you're doing. . . if what you are talking about is a "retrofit," I've been told that it works and works well. But those jobs weren't done on a Lexus. But I can't imagine the Lexus AC system, especially first gen, being too different than any other car, Toyota, MB, or the like.
Old 03-08-04, 10:12 PM
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nthach
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Originally posted by dj.ctwatt
Sounds like you know what you're doing. . . if what you are talking about is a "retrofit," I've been told that it works and works well. But those jobs weren't done on a Lexus. But I can't imagine the Lexus AC system, especially first gen, being too different than any other car, Toyota, MB, or the like.
from what i read and gathered on www.ackits.com, the Toyota/Denso HVAC system responds well to R134a, while the Benz system sucks on 134.
Old 03-08-04, 10:26 PM
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dj.ctwatt
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I'm not a pro so I can't argue. . . but one of my good friends has an ol Benz SEL diesel and it seems fine with the retrofit. I've also known of a few Toyota's that have had it done and no probs. . . give the dealer techs a call I'm sure they'll give you good accurate info
Old 03-09-04, 12:03 PM
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FWIW, I have a '90 LS that was retrofitted to R134a by the dealership, but as it was done by the previous owner, I don't really know specifically what was involved. I have no complaints though as to its efficiency/effectiveness--it keeps us nippy when called upon.

Mike
Old 03-11-04, 03:15 PM
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I've got a R134a system and it works quite well!
Old 03-11-04, 06:47 PM
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My local Lexus dealer said that my 1990 LS400 needs a new evaporator and said it would cost about $800 (parts and labor) to repair. I am sure it can be done cheaper elsewhere. Would it be in my best interest to have it converted to R134a? Thanks.
Old 03-12-04, 10:38 AM
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Originally posted by buttons
Please look at this---I use Maxi Frig in 4 cars--it is super, $6 per # and no oil change.--NOTE that you must have a vacuum pump---cannot install and mix with R12.

http://www.maxifrig.com/
On the WEB they said that MAXIF can be mixed with any refrigerants. What is a reason to pump old one out?
How they selling it? What tools or equipment you need to refill your system with Maxi- Frig?

Thanx
Old 03-13-04, 06:39 PM
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About two years ago, my 90 LS was converted to R134a for about $150 by an independent repair shop that specializes in Lexus and which is owned by a former Lexus dealer service manager. I had a new compressor installed at the same time for a bit over $1,000. The only difference I (think I) could tell with R134a was that the fan might have ran at a slight higher speed on a hot day. I went through two summers with it before I sold it and it worked very well.
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