Believe it or not the AC in my 1986 745 with 210K on the clock still works with the original compressor, evaporator/drier and R-12 coolant. That said, the compressor has been making quite a racket lately. It rattles when the clutch engages and squeaks just about all the time. Sounds like the compressor is about to self destruct. Trouble is, it still works and cools the car pretty well.

Judging from the noise, I'm nearing the end of the life of this AC system and am planning for a refit to 134. I'd appreciate some tips from fellow 745 owners about sources of AC parts and some advice about whether to bite the bullet and replace everything at once or go at it piece by piece, i.e., wait till individual components break and then fix it. I'll probably have my trusted independent mechanic do the work and would appreciate some thoughts about how much to budget for a 134 conversion.


Thanks

Just had to do compressor on our 1987 744.
Bought a Seltec universal compressor w/oring fittings from the folks at this link:

http://www.ackits.com/merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=AMA&Product_Code=10055021

They probably have just about everything else you may require. QUICK service. They have specific compressor listings for Volvos which sell for more $$$. The Seltec works great on our car and comes with compatable oil for 134 installed, no need to use oil from Volvo kit.

Use variable orfice valve (Smart VOV) and you will be cooler than the average conversion, well worth the extra dollars, I know that I will use one in every conversion to 134 that I do from now on.

If the compressor really sound bad, you may want to fix it before compressor takes a dump and contaminates system.

Replace hoses and ALL of the orings.
Hope this helps & good luck
rcs

I converted mine last summer but was able to keep my old compressor. Got my kit from FCP Groton. Had all the parts I needed. Can't remember the cost, but you can check their site. The FAQs has a very detailed conversion instructions.