C 2500 Truck 2WD V8-5.7L VIN R (1997)
Refrigerant: Description and Operation
Like the coolant in the engine cooling system, the refrigerant is the substance in the air conditioning system that absorbs, carries, and then releases
heat. Although various substances are used as refrigerants in other types of refrigeration systems, some automotive air conditioning systems use a type
called Refrigerant-12 (R-12).
This vehicle uses Refrigerant-134a (R-134a). It is a non-toxic, non-flammable, clear, colorless liquefied gas.
While the R-134a A/C system is very similar to an, R-12 A/C system, the differences in the refrigerant, lubricants, and service equipment are
important.
NOTICE: R-134a refrigerant is not compatible with R-12 refrigerant in an air conditioning system. R-12 in a R-134a system will cause compressor
failure, refrigerant oil sludge or poor air conditioning system performance.
Refrigerant-134a carries a charge of a special lubricant called polyalkaline glycol (PAG) refrigerant oil. GM (PAG) refrigerant oil has a slight blue
tint. The oil is hydroscopic (absorbs water from the atmosphere). Store it in closed containers.
