Other than "R134a and mineral oil are not supposed to used together in an automotive air conditioning system," what is the science behind this prohibition?
What does R134a do to mineral oil, or vice versa, when they are used together?
Specifically, we're talking about a R12 to R134a conversion, where a new (A6) compressor and dryer are being used. The A6 comes from Alma Products (the manufacturer of the compressor) with 10oz of mineral oil in it.
One of the biggest and most respected A/C shops in Simi Valley, CA says that there are no real problems with combining R134a and mineral oil, and an equally large and respected shop in Santa Clarita, CA says the same thing. Both have many years of actual experience with doing conversions and have seen few, if any, problems combining R134a and mineral oil with A6 compressors .
Then there are other, smaller shops which are philosophically "by the book," and say that PAG or ester oil MUST be used with R134a, and that mineral or ester oil MUST be used with R12.
My shop does not do A/C work and I know little about it, but I have to say that over the years I have seen that "book learning" may not always be the only right way to do things. Of course, I am asking for this information on probably the premier "I read it, so it must be true"
forum, so I'll probably get some interesting responses.
Have at it!
What does R134a do to mineral oil, or vice versa, when they are used together?
Specifically, we're talking about a R12 to R134a conversion, where a new (A6) compressor and dryer are being used. The A6 comes from Alma Products (the manufacturer of the compressor) with 10oz of mineral oil in it.
One of the biggest and most respected A/C shops in Simi Valley, CA says that there are no real problems with combining R134a and mineral oil, and an equally large and respected shop in Santa Clarita, CA says the same thing. Both have many years of actual experience with doing conversions and have seen few, if any, problems combining R134a and mineral oil with A6 compressors .
Then there are other, smaller shops which are philosophically "by the book," and say that PAG or ester oil MUST be used with R134a, and that mineral or ester oil MUST be used with R12.
My shop does not do A/C work and I know little about it, but I have to say that over the years I have seen that "book learning" may not always be the only right way to do things. Of course, I am asking for this information on probably the premier "I read it, so it must be true"
Have at it!