Oops. Baaaad idea. The compressor needs to run periodically in order not to freeze up. It is recommended that you run it periodically in the winter to help prevent it from freezing up. Two years with no belt? I hope it still works for you.

I was in Autozone today (only 'cuz Advanced didn't have the tool I wanted (neither did Autozone <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" />)), and I saw bunch of boxes sitting in the aisle. 134a, in the 16oz cans, WITH the dye stuff in it...couldn't find a price though.

I need R-12 with dye. My system does not have a R134 retrofit kit on it.

Autozone did not have any R12 substitutes. Bought 3 cans of FREEZE 12 at Pep Boys. They keep this stuff in the back. Not out front with all the R134 derivitives. Some warnings from the can:
1. Recover residual R-12 in A/C system.
2. Replace any refigerant oil lost during recovery process.
3. Install new service fittings (low/high side).
4. Deep evacuate & recharge A/C system with 10% less FREEZE 12.
5. FOR USE BY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL ONLY.

Are any of these mandatory to do? I just want the A/C to work for the summer.

You probably don't have any refrigerant left
You're probably ok here.

Only if their can or tool won't fit on your service port. The valves may leak. That's probably why they want you to replace them.

This removes the air from the system. It also forces any compressed gasses left in the system to expand and then get sucked out. Not a bad idea if you have a tool for the job, but there are ways around it.

They're trying to say that only a certified tech can do this. Have you ever opened a service cover that said "factory authorized service only?" If you don't think you are qualified, take it to a professional. Otherwise, give it a shot. It ain't rocket science.

Be sure to turn the compressor over a few times by hand before you put the belt back on it.

Clay

Put on A/C compressor belt & gave it a go. The fan comes on but no compressor action. Since the compressor has not been started in over 2 years, and the reason it was out of action is because it was blowing warm air, there's no doubt it's out of freon.

I also found out my can of Freeze 12 will not go on the connection directly. Both the can & the compressor connecter have threads so there must be something that goes on both can & compressor. Is there a hose kit that I have to buy also?

Yes, there is a hose kit that you can get. I think they are $10.88 at Wal-Mart.

Turn the center section of the compressor a few times by hand to make sure it can turn freely.

Clay

That would be the center of the clutch he is talking about. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />
OT BTW I was worried that you were gone for good, Clay. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" />
Glad you're back. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/kewl.gif" alt="" />

Yes, I turned the clutch a few times. I wouldn't say it turns freely, it doesn't spin around if I give it a whirl, but it does turn...

That hose kit, is it for R12 or R134? Went to Autozone & the hose kits they had said for R134, not for R12. What's different between R12 & R134 can fittings? Can I just use a R134 hose kit?

I'm not sure what the difference is on the can, if there is a difference. I use a can tap that pierces the side of the can and gets the refrigerant out very quickly.

I suspect that the only difference will be in the car adapter. If you get an R134a hose kit you may be able to find an adapter to convert from R134a back to R12, but I don't know where to find one.

try this: Can Tap
and this: Connectors and such

Anywhere you live in the US is going to have a Snap-On dealer. Just go to your local auto repair shop and ask when the Snap-On man comes by.

Clay