Ask the Expert: I have yet to buy an R-1234yf machine. How can I service YF vehicles with R-444A?

Q: I have yet to buy an R-1234yf machine. How can I service YF vehicles with R-444A?

A: If your service center has yet to buy R-1234yf equipment, servicing these vehicles with R-444A may be a less costly option. Initially, during service, you will perform R-1234yf to R-444A retrofits. Retrofitting does not require expensive service equipment. A recovery-only machine to recover R-1234yf, a set of gauges equipped with R-444A couplers, a vacuum pump, and a scale are all that is needed. The total investment would be close to $2,000 (versus over $6,000 for an R-1234yf machine). Also supporting this decision is the lower cost of the refrigerant, which is currently around 20% less than R-1234yf, with the added benefit of increased performance, improved fuel economy, etc.

After the R-1234yf is removed, retrofit service fittings are installed, the refrigerant label is affixed, and the vehicle is charged with R-444A in the same amount as was prescribed for R-1234yf. After the change, the system should be checked for performance and leaks.

After around 24 retrofits, you will want to dispose of the accumulated R-1234yf. Reclaimers are paying for recovered R-1234yf. This represents an additional revenue stream by performing retrofits.

Later on, when these retrofitted vehicles return for service, you can use an SAE J2851 recovery machine to collect the R-444A. You will want to dedicate a unit for this purpose by properly labeling the machine and the recovery tank.

For more information, view this video.