1. Welcome to Tacoma World!

    You are currently viewing as a guest! To get full-access, you need to register for a FREE account.

    As a registered member, you’ll be able to:
    • Participate in all Tacoma discussion topics
    • Communicate privately with other Tacoma owners from around the world
    • Post your own photos in our Members Gallery
    • Access all special features of the site

Professional experience with Red Tek/Duracool

Discussion in 'Technical Chat' started by RockNRolla, Oct 13, 2012.

  1. Oct 13, 2012 at 8:49 AM
    #1
    RockNRolla

    RockNRolla [OP] Active Member

    Joined:
    Sep 23, 2012
    Member:
    #87525
    Messages:
    29
    Gender:
    Male
    West Coast Canada
    Vehicle:
    2008 DCLB SR5 V6 4x4
    I've searched, and found a few threads where people tackling their own AC system fixes have used the recharge kits such as Red Tek or Duracool. With positive results. But I want to know the real deal.
    In my case my 08 Taco 4.0L has compressor in need of replacement, along with the obligatory expansion valve. Being covered by the dealer's warranty where I purchased the truck 3 weeks ago from. However.. they want to fill and recharge the system with the Red Tek product. And I'm weary of it.
    Does it have any ill effects on the system later on? If so, is there evidence out there on that, not heresay.

    Have any of you Professional shops/mechanics out there used this stuff in place of 134a? I would appreciate the help. Thanks
     
  2. Oct 17, 2012 at 9:03 PM
    #2
    RockNRolla

    RockNRolla [OP] Active Member

    Joined:
    Sep 23, 2012
    Member:
    #87525
    Messages:
    29
    Gender:
    Male
    West Coast Canada
    Vehicle:
    2008 DCLB SR5 V6 4x4
    A ton of research later. Red Tek/Duracool/HC-12A/OZ-12A is a propane/butane mixture, with some other shit tossed in for good measure. Its illegal in 19 States according to the EPA. Highly combustible in cab and out. Not OEM approved, and voids warranties of parts. Its completely not serviceable (aside from topping up with same stuff), and if you use their leak sealer, you seal the future fate of your AC system by doing so. ...To sum it up, its crap for the most part. Might make sense to some people out there. But do yourself a favor, and just go with what is designed for the AC system in our trucks, 134A.
    Also, most competent shops will use an AC refrigerant Identifier. So be prepared to be possibly turned away if they discover it.
     

Products Discussed in

To Top