Hey guys, this is all in regards to my '87 bonne'* A/C system
Ok so my air conditioning compressor went out a LONG time back (~5 years, i.e. before it was my car) and it was never fixed so I have decided to get it done. Anyways I have a chilton'* (not helpful for anything ac related) but I also have a service manual which tells me about the whole procedure but here are some of my questions:

The service manual says to flush the system with refrigerant (I heard there was flushin solution sold in stores but the manual recommends just using refrigerant to flush the system, ) What do you all recommend?

When adding oil to the compressor , does it matter if I put it in through the suction port or the outgoing port?

Anyone know where I can buy a vacuum pump to evacuate my system with?

Finally one more question, I'm obviously going to use R134a instead of the original R12 when I refill my system but I read that the lubricant oil I should use is different based on whether or not I use R12 or R134a. I assume since I'm using 134a i should use PAG oil correct?

Alright thanks for any help you all can give me
Oh and some FYI:
I bought a new accumulator and compressor (actually the comp. is remanufactured) as well as a new orifice tube for this project.
Also: My car has the mounting bracket for the compressor but i don't have the compressor mounting bolts, anyone have any idea what size these bolts are? I suppose I could always lug my compressor over to the Lowe'* or Home Depot and use the different ones they have there to test it, just seems like a pain.

Thanks again all and I hope everyon'e doing well.

Mike Diaz
87 Pontiac Bonneville

You need to post those exact questions at:

http://www.aircondition.com/wwwboard/

Let us know how you come out.

I can answer a few of your questions:
1) Yes, i use Dura Flush, it is a refrigerant flushing solution. I like it better than solvents. The book you have may be before the EPA ruling banning release of refrigerants.
2) Oil has to be added to the inlet of the compressor. After putting in 4ounces of oil into it, you have to turn the shaft by hand or clutch tool to force oil out of the cylinders. Very important. I would recommend Ester 100 if using R134a. Don't use PAG. I think it is too hydroscopic (absorbs moisture easily)
3) You can rent a vacuum pump from a tool rental place or AutoZone in some stores
4) When you weigh in the refrigerant, I put 80 - 85% of the original charge weight in.
5) As far as the bolts go, I would go to a junkyard and get the bolts. Or go to dealership and get the right ones. These bolts are a certain lengh and have to be right or you will distort the case and cause leaks.
6) One more important note. Remember that the oil will absorb moisture from the air rapidly. Once you start, don't stop. I get everything else together first, then add the oil and the accumulator last, then vacuum down.
Don't be scared, you can do it. I have had very good sucess retrofitting my 87 Bonneville to R134a. This car will take the retrofit very well. You will notice a little loss of capacity over R12 when idling in a hot parking lot, but it'* not that bad. Feel free to e-mail me at freezebear@hotmail.com and I will help you.