In an R12 AC system, using PAG 100 oil is not recommended. R12 systems typically use mineral oil, which is not compatible with PAG oils. Mixing different types of oils can lead to lubrication issues and potential damage to the system. If you're retrofitting to a more modern refrigerant, it's best to flush the system and use the appropriate oil for that refrigerant.
You would have to replace the orifice tube, accumulator or receiver-drier (which one you have depends on what type of AC system you have), as well as remove all of the R12 refrigerant, and you'd have to replace the compressor oil with PAG.
It's only Freon if it was manufactured by DuPont, but to the important things... Your 89 would have had an R12 system from the factory. You can't use R134a in an R12 system unless you do at least a partial retrofit (evacuate all the R12 and compressor oil, replace the orifice tube, replace the accumulator, replace the hose connections, add PAG oil and R134a).
You can't simply put R134a into an R12 system. You'd have to, at a minimum, change the hose connections and change the oil to PAG. the proper method to retro fit involves adding new charge port adapters, changing the oil in the compressor, and replacing the drier/accumulator. I know a lot of mechanics who do nothing more than add the port adapters and shoot in some extra pag oil.
It came from the factory with R12 but as R12 is extremely expensive I recommend you have the system converted to use R134a.
The same amount is used as an R12 system.
R12, if still available at your local parts store (requires a license), is very expensive. It is cheaper to retrofit the system to use r134a.
Why would you want to even consider doing this? R12 is no longer in production and as such it cost almost 4 times as much as R134. But to answer your question, use R12 in a R134 system and you will destroy the compressor as the oil is not compatible with R134 oil.
No, you should not mix R12 and R134a refrigerants. R12 is a chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) that is being phased out due to its harmful environmental effects, while R134a is a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) that is more environmentally friendly. Mixing them can lead to system damage, reduced efficiency, and environmental concerns. Always use the refrigerant specified for your system.
You have to have a permit to buy R12 and it is very expensive. Any system that uses R12 can use 134 the replacement for R12. You will need adapters that screw onto the old fittings that accept the hose that hooks to the 134 can. You add freon to the low side of the system. The adapter are different sizes so you cannot put it in the high pressure side. Yes, if you have any mechanical knowledge at all, you should be able to charge the system without much trouble. OR you can buy all the R12 you like for cheap from Mexican sources and keep the longevity of your original equipment and lower operating pressures of R12. They way your system was designed. R12 comes in everyday by the truckload thanks to our new open border laws.
It doesnt matter the only available refrigerant is R134a and if you have an R12 system it must be retrofitted R134 is about $20 a pound and R12, if you can find it, is about $150 a pound
Installing R12 refrigerant requires specific equipment and knowledge of refrigerant handling. First, ensure that the system is compatible with R12 and that you're following all local regulations for refrigerant handling. Connect a refrigerant gauge set to the service ports of the system, then use a refrigerant recovery machine to reclaim any existing refrigerant before adding R12. Finally, slowly introduce R12 into the system while monitoring pressure gauges to ensure proper levels are maintained. Always prioritize safety and consider consulting a certified technician for assistance.
Using R134a in an R12 system is not recommended without proper modifications. R134a has different properties and requires a different oil type, which can lead to inefficiencies or damage if used directly. If you want to convert an R12 system to R134a, it's essential to retrofit the system, including replacing the oil and possibly other components, to ensure compatibility and efficiency. Always consult a professional before attempting such conversions.