AC Valve Core Removal

[87GoldStandard]

I'm currently doing an AC retrofit to convert from r12 to r134a so I'm attempting to remove the valve cores before fitting the adapters. I'm able to start unscrewing the core with a core removal tool, but the thread seems to stop after I get it to the point shown in the attached image. I can feel the thread with the tool to tighten it back up or to loosen it to that point, but it seems to just stop and not want to come out anymore. Do you just pull it out the rest of the way or is leaving it loose enough for the adapters and charge kit? Any help is appreciated.

[scottb]

I have converted over a couple of cars and I have never had to remove the valve cores. The new fittings screw on to the old fittings to replace the caps

[87GoldStandard]

Interesting. I guess I'll try it again without removing the valve cores. When I tried it the first time the pressure valve wasn't activating for the charge kit nozzle. But it would activate allowing the nozzle to lock on. It would lock on however with the adapter off so I figured the valve core was in the way of the adapter.

[scottb]

The adapters should have a stem inside that will push on the Schrader valve when the hoses are hooked up

[TopNotch]

You should replace the accumulator when you switch over. There are some adapters that, like Scott said, will have stems that press the Schrader valve, but there are some that don't, and require removal of the valve core. But all the ones I've seen at parts stores have the stems. Ones I got once from TFS did not.

[87GoldStandard]

The adapters should have a stem inside that will push on the Schrader valve when the hoses are hooked up

Turns out it was just the adapters that came in TFS retrofut kit. Went out and bought just adapters and those worked fine.