I just tried charging my system with the 134a retrofit kit a few hours ago, my system has been bone dry for some time now and its getting hot out. Problem is when I turned on the AC I got an absolutly terrible screeching noise from the compressor. I thought it might go away or get quieter as I added the oil charge but it did not stop. Is my compressor toast? The clutch isn't stuck because I got under the car and can see it moving. Does the oil just need time to work in since the system has been empty for a while? Any help would be great, I don't want to end up paying a **** load of money to get it fixed but I may have to do that. Thanks!

 

I tried the belt dressing but that did not quiet the noise. But alas I have found the problem. It was the condensor fan, thats why it made noise when I turned on the AC. I just ran it for awhile and it eventulayy stopped, I thought my car would explode the noise was so bad.

Now I have another problem. I finished charging the system and then I heard the coolant leaking from the compressor. It was coming from what looked like a bleed valve or something on the compressor. I tried tightening the bolt but it didn't turn much. Here is a picture of what Im talking about:

The part in question is on the top left of the picture, the bolt with a hole in it. Anyone know what that is and if I just need to replace a seal or somethin? Thanks!

 

Anyone?

 

I had the same problem with my A\C System and I asked what the problem was and I was told that the A\C system That came with that model of 323 was designed to run on what they call an R12 Gas and when you charge it with the R134A gas the compressor doesn't run at as high pressure. Mine makes all kinds of funny noises but I've been told its not damaging the compressor at all.

As for your squeking noise if found if you re-tension your belts and lube them up you will find the squeking noise will disapear.

Can I ask, does your compressor make a kind of 'Clicking' sound when its turned on and left for a while?

 

Yes.

 

Hey thanks, I don't have a way to record a sound byte though. I work with a guy who just went through that class. I'll see if he can help me out. Thanks alot!

 

i just charged my system with r-134a as the r-12 had dried out somehow. the kit at pepboys cost 37 bucks, threw on the service ports and started the a/c up with the car running, let the gauge take a reading and started filling it up, holding the can upside down, the can was empty in about 5 minutes or less... took a reading, threw in a second can, took the reading.. bled some out (shhh) and threw in 1/8th of a third can of r-134a. through out the charging process, it made a god awful clicking sound, but after restarting the engine, letting that little bit out and recharging with some more, it seemed to work fine. it was blowing ice cold all day and i have no problems yet, just loss of power when trying to gun it heh. good luck with your system, as i know, there were probably 8 other steps i had to do that i never did.
peace