Hi MikeC3 et al: was ready to cut into my 3/4 hose and install the second ball valve when I realized that even though the ball valve says 3/4 the ends are only 5/8. Back at Lowes they don't have the right size so I'll try to get to HD tomorrow. Where did you get yours?
Thanks for the information on the ES-12, last time I paid about $65.00 a pound for R-12 and I'm not sure if there is anyone who has any. PG.

 

I got the 3/4" PEX ball valve for my 5/8 inch line which I bought off the shelf at Lowes. As for the 3/4" heater hose, I had to build my own ball valve (I bought the parts at Lowes as well since they don't carry a larger PEX one) using a 1/2" ball valve and then screwed in two brass pipe 1/2" MIP x 2" nipples in either end. I then clamped both down on the cut hoses and it works perfectly.

I need to pick up a new compressor and belt first and then add the ES-12. Any suggestions on where to pick up a compressor? At my local AutoZone, it's only $150 or so. I'll be clearing out my A/C lines to add just ES-12, but you can add it to your R12.

 

I googled on ES-12 last nite and found a ton of info. Also a place where you can get R-12. You used to have to have a license to buy R-12. Probably still do.

Anyway after reading all of the info, I'm not sure whether I'd use the ES-12 or not. I did buy a 30# bottle of R-12 right before they made you have a license to get it.

When I had to change out the compressor in my IROC-Z, I made a poor man's R-12 recycler by using an empty 20# R-12 bottle. I set it in a bucket of ice water and connected to the system. Since the pressure at 35* is a lot less than at 90*, the freon goes to the low temp. bottle. Surprisingly I managed to get almost all of it out of the car.

 

Hi again, thanks for the parts list, I try again at Lowe's.
AutoZone my other favorite place, lifetime warranty!
Thanks again, PG.