Yep, for those of you who don't know, R134a is being phased out, and HFO-1234yf, aka R1234yf is being phased in, as soon as 2012, and most definitely by 2013. Turns out that 134a can sit around in the atmosphere for about 17 years before it breaks down into un-harmful gasses. I'm thinking that I may start stocking up on some R134a now, especially considering that a 30 lb container of the R1234yf is going to cost about $2K! I feel really bad for the independent shop owners (such as our own AKlowriderZ71), who will need to invest between $3500 to $6500 in new equipment to test, service, and repair these systems

Here's an article for your consideration:

A/C Service: Then and now - Remember the transition from R12 to R134a? Here we go again. - Motor Age - Automotive training, certification & parts info

 

You mean a 30lb cylinder?

And I've heard about this for a while now, and I think Europe was suppose to change first. R134a has been going up steadily for a while now, did Dupont run out on it's patent again?

 

Europe is even going so far as to outlaw freon commercial and industrial chillers. in a twist, you will see the return of ammonia chillers and also more lithium-bromide absorption systems. should be interesting once this hits the usa.

 

Whoops, yea that's what I meant, lemme go edit that...