Volvo RWD 200 Forum

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air conditioning 200 1990

My '90 240DL wagon has 270k miles on it and everything that makes it go is in great shape. Problem is I live in Tennessee, where I don't cope well with the humid heat, and I drive a lot, as shown by the mileage, and the car has hot and sticky vinyl seats. I was told at a dealership shop that the air conditioning (which the car had when new, but is now shot) is a lost cause and to utilize the 4/70 method of cooling. Is there any kind of air conditioning system that could be installed other than a rebuilt original system? A newer Volvo system or aftermarket brand? Thanks for your answers...








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    air conditioning 200 1990

    Converting to 134a is the right thing to do from a cost and environmental standpoint but keep in mind the system will loose 10-15% of its cooling capacity over R12. jp








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    air conditioning 200 1990


    My 91_240 had R12 but was upgraded to R134 by a volvo independent for about $250.00. I'd vote with the others about fixing your existing system, and have it upgraded to R134 at the same time.

    91_240








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    air conditioning 200 1990

    I have a 93 245 with the stock A/C (R134a) and live in Dallas. The A/C is adequate, not as good as the one in the 850 I had, but good enouogh. So, I'd encourage you to fix the stock unit. Since you have a 90, I think you may have the upgraded evaporator and condensor already (others may know for sure, maybe it came out in 91). If you don't have the upgraded evaporator and condensor, I think you should install them. If funds are a concern, get them from a juckyard as they are pretty reliable parts. In any case, I'd convert over to R134a and use any parts from a 93 you may need, including the celectric condensor fan. Also, I'd use a SMART VOV in place of the stock orifice tube (better low speed cooling), and make sure you use the correct clutch cycling switch (screws into the receiver/drier) for R134a. Make sure you flush out the system and check for leaks before refilling. If you need a new compressor, the 93 uses a Seiko Seiki, as opposed to the Diesel Kiki of earlier models. This compressor can be bought new or rebuilt or you can switch to a Sanden.








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    air conditioning 200 1990

    As I responded to B.C., I guess if you do not know where Elizabethton is, then you are not in East TN. If you are anywhere even close, Higganbotham's a/c in Knoxville does nothing but a/c and does Volvo well. Also, an independant in nearby Oak Ridge called Transtech installs after market systems into 1800's, so might have a similar solution for 240. I would think your best bet would be to repair the system you have, but someone like Higganbothams could advise you better than me.

    Yes, in TN, you need a/c!








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    air conditioning 200 1990

    Hi -

    Ah feel yore pain. Several summers in Houston have I survived by using the 2/70 system.

    Helps if one has power windows, maintains speeds over 40mph, and maximizes shaded parking. Might help if one had those wooden beaded seats that were popular in the 90/s.

    Right side windows down 1/2 way, left side closed, blower fan off, and at 40 mph or more there will be almost a whirlwind in the cabin. I've done this in 244 and 245. Can blow off one's toupee.

    As regards repair - I'm facing similar situation in my 1986 244GL. System is empty, and has one RS134 fitting. Cannot tell what was in it, R12 or 134, so no shop will touch it for fear of mixing refrigerants in their recovery machines.

    DIY? New/used compressor. New receiver/dryer. New "0" rings. One new hose.
    Lots of labor time. Try to get it done B4 summer setys in, and it hit 80F last week.

    For you - a/c is a/c. Any system will do, and cheaper ones usually reveal themselves at inoppportune moments. Shop around with several a/c shops. Get a vacuum test run to see if (and how badly) it leaks. Look into the the Volvo 134 conversion kit. Last year I saw several on eBay around $200, and some of our advertisers may have them, too. It is reputed to be a very good kit.

    Good Luck,

    Bob

    :>)

    PS Ever been in Elizabethton?








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      air conditioning 200 1990

      Hi, guess that answers my question about where in TN the bad a/c is (have lots of good resources in the East TN area, but cannot help him otherwise). What are you doing in Elizabethton? I grew up in nearby Greeneville, and now travel through Elizabethton regularly, as my daughter is in college just over the hill in Boone, NC.

      Allen








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      air conditioning 200 1990

      Nope, I've never been to Elizabethton. Don't know that I even know where it is, actually. I don't wear a rug, so I'll give your window configuration a try. Thanks for your suggestions.







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