Silver Spur Air conditioning clutch failure

[Richard Barrow]

I just bought a 1982 Sliver Spur. It's only done about 57k miles and has been regularly service. The cluth on the Harrison (model Nº 11312429) a/c compressor broke the other day. I was able to tie up the plate with wire so I could continue my journey (without heating/a con of course). I've checked with a spares supplier and the clutch unit is available separately. Does anyone know of any problems with changing the clutch unit. Also on the compressor it state "charge with R 12" can any alternative be used without giving problems? Any help/advise much apreciated. Best regards from Madrid, Richard

[Jan Forrest]

"R12" refrigerant is now banned as it is freon-based. The two alternatives are:
RS24 which is a straight replacement and *should* include both a lubricant and a dye to indicate any leaks in the system.
Alternatively you could use '134a' but some parts will likely need replacing first ... the receiver drier and some seals which may not be compatible.
much better to stick to the RS24.