Advice on reviving a dormant A/C system

[Tim S.]

I have read through some different threads, and have not found a situation that is similar to mine. I have a 67 390hp A/C car that just came out of a 40 year ownership. The prior owner (#2) told me the A/C did not work (no surprise). This is the 2nd A/C car I have had and the first one I am trying to get operating properly.

I made some time to poke around a little bit yesterday. There is still pressure in the system (on the low side valve) and the system works electrically.

Having said that, I know the system is capable of holding at least some pressure (no gauges). There is no evidence of any leakage by the front seal of the compressor. The car had what looks to be the original / correct caps on each side of the A/C system.

To those that have experience with a scenario like this......would you try to properly charge the system and see where it takes me? Pull it down, flush and recharge? I have plenty of R12 BTW. Anything different I should consider?

In advance, I appreciate the consideration.

Tim

[Edward J.]

Re: Advice on reviving a dormant A/C system

Tim, I would advise snooping around and looking at o-ring seals, condenser, evaporator for signs of oil residue this generally a sign of a leak. If your blower resistor is in the top of blower case you can remove the two screws and peek down into case to look for residue or wetness. If you don’t see anything , you can try to add a couple lbs of Freon.I brought my 72 about 17 years ago and added a few lbs, and it’s still working after all these years. If the system has something in it as you say a couple of lbs should at least get the system to blower cold air. When there is a leak the wetness collects dust over the years,that’s a sure sign of a leak.