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Bulletin No.: 43-12-07E

File In Section: 1 - HVAC

Bulletin No.: 43-12-07E

Date: January, 1997

INFORMATION

Subject:
Guidelines for Retrofitting R-12 Vehicles to R-134a

Models:
1984-94 Passenger Cars and Trucks (See List Below)

This bulletin is being revised with the following changes:

1. Addition of all remaining GM vehicles, as listed.

2. Format rearranged for easier use.

Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 43-12-07D (Section 1 - HVAC).

Car/Truck Platform Coverage Starts:

1984 - A, B, D, E, F, J, K, P, Y Carlines

1985 - C, M, N, R, S Carlines

1986 - H Carline

1987 - L, V (Allante) Car lines; M/L, G, R/V, S/T,
P Truck lines

1988 - T (LeMans), E (Reatta), W Car lines;
C/k, MED. Duty Truck lines

1989 - Tracker

1990 - U Van

Vehicles Not Covered: T (Chevette and T1000), G RWD, C RWD, and X Car

If a vehicle is not covered in the list above, GM's recommendation is that the vehicle continue to be serviced with R-12.

This bulletin outlines the detailed retrofit procedures, as well as providing background information on many components and procedures. It is important to follow the bulletin, since each car and truck line has unique parts and procedures. However, the basic procedure is simple, and will become easier as you complete more retrofits.





Retrofit Requirements

The customer should be reminded that there is NO requirement in the U.S. to retrofit any vehicle produced with R-12. Vehicles built with R-12 can be serviced with R-12 as long as it is available (except in certain Canadian Provinces). GM has taken steps to extend the supply of R-12 and recommends that all R-12 vehicles continue to be serviced with R-12 as long as it is available.

Training Video

Before doing a retrofit the first time, it is recommended that you view the Certified Plus Training Video, Program number 51010.15, "R-134a Retrofit for GM Cars and Trucks".

Table of Contents

A. Retrofit Procedure

1. Inspect Condition of Vehicle

2. Recover the R-12 (new method)

3. Install the service port conversion fittings

4. Install any additional parts needed

5. Evacuate and recharge with new PAG or V5 retrofit oil and R-134a

6. Install the retrofit label

Platform Details

Compressor Replacement Chart

B. General Information

1. Performance

2. Leakage

3. Desiccant

4. Improved Cooling Performance

5. PAG or V5 Oil Compatibility

6. Refrigerant Oil Level

C. Parts Information

D. Warranty Information

1. Vehicle Still in Warranty

2. Customer Paid' Retrofitting Costs

3. Labor Time Information