Dads 82 AC clutch

["Philip Brust" <pbrust@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Lawrence-

Randall's post was right on the money...sounds like low refrigerant. Check
the sight glass in the receiver-dryer for bubbles while the system is
running (clutch engaged). The receiver-dryer is located on the passenger
side fender-just follow the AC lines to it. You may have to clear dirt away
from the top fitting to see the sight glass. 

Here are the common leak points for a 318 AC system: fittings on the
expansion valve at the firewall, fittings on the receiver-dryer, condenser,
and the dreaded evaporator. Over the years, I've had a number of 318 Mopars
and every one of them has had leaks in those places. The condensers have
usually failed in the same place: look for oil/dirt accumulation at the
bottom front of the condenser on the passenger side. I have one to replace
on my 86 Fifth Ave right now.

One other source of leaks: the hoses. While 35 year old hoses hold just
fine, some of the mid-eighties hoses have leaked R-12. Hoses will be softer
than normal and covered with refrigerant oil and dirt...don't know why.

Leaks must be fixed sooner or later...the only vehicle that I successfully
maintained with a "can a year habit" was a 90 Dakota. It had a very small
leak in the evaporator that started when it was about five years old. That
went on for about 5 years until the evaporator failed completely. That's
rare and I suggest you be prepared to spend some $ if you want AC. Once the
faulty component is identified and replaces along with the receiver-dryer, a
conversion to R-134 is probably the best way to go.

Phil Brust
73 & 82 Imperial
With 13 lbs of R-12 still left...