Retro- Fitting R-12 Engine Drive Systems with R-134a

It is necessary to fit new parts when changing refrigerants because the old refrigerant R-12 and its replacement refrigerant R-134a are different. Lubricating oils, seals, rubber hoses, desiccant, expansion valves, compressor valves and tighter tolerances are required making it impossible to just change the refrigerant. The synthetic oil now used affect seals, gaskets, and hoses in older systems. The temperature and pressure relationships between the two refrigerants are different as well, requiring changing the thermostatic valve, increasing the size of the condenser, and more.

Blended Refrigerants Should Not Be Used In The Engine Drive

Refrigerants have been developed as an interim replacement for use in existing R-12 systems. These refrigerants are formulated to act like R-12 but they are a blend of several refrigerants. The oil carrying ability of a blend is poor in this application and if the refrigerant leaks it separates into one of it’s components creating a totally different operating characteristic that will ruin an engine drive compressor.

The Sea Frost Retro-fit R-134a Engine Drive Kit

You can add new life for your Sea Frost Engine Drive by installing the R-134a retro-kit. This kit includes: a R-134a compressor, compressor base, 2.5 condenser, ED hose set, Model 24 RFD, SPU valve and service block, 134 expansion valve, new copper tubing from the engine room to the expansion valve, refrigerant, new installation instructions and spare condenser zincs. Installation requires swapping the major components, blowing out the cold plate with mineral spirits to remove any old oil and slightly modifying the tubing route to include the new SPU valve in the engine space. The cooling performance will be similar to the old system. Many people have experienced faster cooling.

Advantages of The Retro-kit Upgrade

The advantages of the upgrade to R-134a will be using a refrigerant that has no known ozone depletion. Using the most popular refrigerant in the world, due to use in automobiles, household products, refrigerated transport and commercial stationary systems makes it available and inexpensive. There are no restrictions on the purchase of 12 oz. cans for a cruising spare parts kit. You will experience better compressor operation and life due to synthetic oils, and new component design.

When to Up-grade

Keep your R-12 system going as long as you can if it is leak free. Never just top up a leaking system, fix the leak. If you are thinking of changing your compressor or another major part, install the retro-kit. Buying a part to work with a soon to be obsolete refrigerant might represent a good percentage of the retro-kit cost.

COMPLETE 134A ED RETRO KIT................................................................................$ 1,595.00

SEA FROST, 372 Route 4, Barrington, NH 03825 USA
Tel: (603) 868-5720 ~ Fax: (603) 868-1040
1-800-435-6708 (USA, Canada & Caribbean)