I am researching how to fix the airconditioner in my Fiero and EXP. I and have heard a lot about changing the o-rings. How many are there and where are they located? Where would I get new orings that are compatable? Is this an off the shelf item?

If anyone has done the conversion and has created a step by step web page, please pm me with the address. I would love to see it. If not I will make one when I am done.

------------------

American Exotic

I don't have an answer as to precisely how many O-rings there are, but typically you'll find an O-ring at each connection in the A/C system. Not every O-ring is the same size, and I believe they have to be compatible with A/C refrigerant.

If I'm incorrect, then it'll be a learning experience for me as well...

I've never torn a Fiero A/C system apart, but in general....

1. You will need to change the accumulator/drier. There should be two O-rings on each connection to it. The relacement O-rings should be supplied with the new accumulator.

2. There will be two O-rings or seal washers at the compressor.

3. There should be an O-ring at the inlet and outlet joints at the evaporator and the condensor.

You may be able to find an "off the shelf" GM refrigeration retrofit kit that includes o-rings, and a small bottle of oil. These kits generally cover several models and have enough of the correct o-rings to replace all in the system.

Here's a link describing how a guy converted his 87 Buick. GM A/C units are similar so most of this applies. http://www.gnttype.org/techarea/airconditioning/R12toR134a.html

Because of your replies I may have air for the first time since 1992. Thank you all for your resopnses. Excellent information.

quote Originally posted by Mark: I've never torn a Fiero A/C system apart, but in general.... 1. You will need to change the accumulator/drier. There should be two O-rings on each connection to it. The relacement O-rings should be supplied with the new accumulator. 2. There will be two O-rings or seal washers at the compressor. 3. There should be an O-ring at the inlet and outlet joints at the evaporator and the condensor.

Plus there are two O rings in the manifold conector near the firewall, another just below the front trunk compartment which comes from the condenser, and another two O rings on the orifice tube connector. I believe that there are 14 O rings in all. Good idea to replace all the O rings for a reliable R-134a conversion.

------------------
87GT 3.4 Turbo Best 0-60 5.2 seconds
http://www.turbochargerpower.com/turbo.htm

Thanks for the link Spark1. That's a very nice write up.

I'd just like to add that I did my A/C Conversion 4 years ago, doing nothing more than bleeding the system, and recharging it with the bottles in the kit. It's still blowing cold today with no issues. Also did this with my Grand Prix at the same time, with same results, still have the car.

On the other hand, if for some reason you're going to have the system apart, it would be smart to change these 'O' Rings while your at it.