A/C not working, how to check for leaks?

Hello THANOSKAZAKOS,

The first thing I would do is take it to an A/C shop and have them put the A/C Machine on it and pull a vacuum on it. Then have them hold that vacuum for 20 minutes or more.

If there are any leaks in the system this will tell you.

If no leaks are found I would have them charge the system, add PAG oil, and dye to the system.

I don't have a spec for this for your vehicle right now but will continue to look for you. Unfortunately, with older vehicles sometimes the information isn't available, but like I said I will continue to look for you and add it.

You can also look for leaks yourself with a UV light you can pick up at your local auto parts store. I will add a picture of one for you. Although pulling a vacuum on it is the best option because you won't be able to get to the evaporator with the light.

As long as dye has been put into the system any leaks should glow a bright yellow.
Check every hose, fitting, compressor, condenser and any other parts you can reach and see if you can see anything.

Is the compressor coming on at all? If refrigerant is low, it will short cycle trying to keep the pressure up in the system.

Thank you,
Brendon

Hello THANOSKAZAKOS,

From what I could find looks like system capacity for your A/C is 6 ounces.

I also wanted to share a company that I have used in the past. It's called Vintage Air. I used this company to put an A/C system in a 1972 Nova we were building. The kits are awesome and come with everything you need.

In your original question you mentioned you might replace the system, I don't know for sure if they have a kit for your vehicle, but I think it is worth checking out. Here is a link to their site.
https://www.vintageair.com/catalog/

Have a great weekend!
Brendon

Hello THANOSKAZAKOS,

Yes R-12 was phased out in 1994 and all new vehicles as of 1995 had to come with R-134a. The conversion isn't too complicated. They will need to change out your old filter and dryer in order to use the R-134a. As well as the oil in the system.

I agree though, without the proper equipment to recover the old refrigerant and fill with new stuff, plus charge it will oil, it is best to take it to someone to do the work.

When you convert from R-12 to R134a they will need to use Ester oil vs the typical PAG oil since R-12 systems used mineral based oils and PAG oil will react with it.

They actually have a new refrigerant out that is better for the environment than R-134a that was phased into all new vehicles by 2021. It's called R-1234yf.

I gathered up a few articles for you to read up on the replacement process as well as the different refrigerant types. I feel it is better to go into a shop informed of the process so you can communicate with the technician performing the work and you have an idea of the scope of the job.

Plus, if I had an 82 Corvette, I probably wouldn't take my eye off it.

I don't know if you go to car shows in your area but if you do, communicating with other enthusiasts can help find you a good shop that will take care of your car the right way.

Here are those articles if you're interested:
https://www.mobil.com/en/lubricants/for-personal-vehicles/auto-care/all-about-oil/ask-our-auto-experts/what-is-ester-oil

https://www.brighthubengineering.com/hvac/63345-replacement-for-r12-refrigerant/

https://www.easycarelectrics.com/car-ac-refrigerant-r12-r134a-r1234yf/

Hope this all helps, and you get your Vette's A/C running so you can enjoy your ride this summer.

If I can help with any other information, please do not hesitate to let me know.

Enjoy the rest of your weekend!
Brendon