Cadillac Repair: Climate Control System, climate control system, r134

Question
I just bought a 1977 Sedan De Ville (425 CI V8)76,800 verified miles and it looks like it just rolled out of the showroom. Unfortunately, the climate control system is messing up - one in a while it works great but most of the time it thinks I need heat instead of A/C (I really need THAT in the desert in Arizona during the summer months!)

According to the sticker under the hood, it was changed to R-134 refrigerant. My mechanic claims this A/C unit won't work on R134 and that I'm looking at $450 to $500 to take it back to R12.

Two questions: First of all, is this true? They claim it has something to do with the sensors in the climate control system not recognizing the R134.

Secondly: Is that a reasonable price to put it back to R12? They didn't say what all would be involved but that seems kind of high to me unless they're replacing parts. I would think they could just evacuate the system then refill it.

Thanks in advance for your help with this issue.

Answer
Your mechanic is giving you a B/S story. I have successfully retrofitted many 70's, and 80's Cadillac's to the R-134 system.

Therefore, Either:


A. He is not familiar with the system.

       OR

B. He just wants your money.



I STRONGLY suggest that you take it to a reputable A/C facility.

 
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