Engine pull - Will need A/C Conversion?

[subiefan]

I need to convert my A/C system from R12 to R134a. How much can I excpect this to cost? I will probably be having the work done at my local garage, not a chain garage like Midas, or at a dealer, unless this is something that a backyard mechanic such as myself could do. The only thing I have ever done with A/C's is add refrigerant, and I've heard that converting a system involves a good bit of work. I'm farily sure I could do the work myself, but I have a feeling that it would make more since to have the garage do it.

 

I would appreciate a rough figure from anyone who has had this done before.

 

*EDIT*

 

I though I should go ahead and ask this question too. The reason that I need to know about an A/C conversion is that I am going to be pulling my engine to do some repairs. I assumed that this meant unhooking the A/C, therefore causing the loss of the refrigerant in the system.

 

However, I read in another thread that with the Legacy, you can just unbolt the compressor from the engine and set it aside without breaking the lines.

 

Can this be done with the Impreza?

 

Thanks.

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1993 Subaru Impreza 1.8L - 181k miles

[Legacy777]

You should be able to move the compressor off to the side as well.

 

As for converting it. Read this

http://www.ultimatesubaru.org/forum/showthread.php?t=2442&page=1&pp=10&highlight=134a+conversion

[subiefan]

Thanks. You saved me a lot of trouble and money. The A/C still works fine, so I don't see any point in converting it yet. Thanks a lot.