How hot should the AC condensor get???

[fueler]

I noticed that my engine runs hotter with the AC on so I did a quick test. I placed my hand on my AC condensor while the AC was on, and it was very hot, I can only hold it for a few seconds. Then, I turned the AC off and INSTANTLY the condensor cooled down greatly, within a few seconds. I turned the AC back on and the condensor went immediately back to HOT HOT HOT. Within a few seconds, it was already HOT to the touch again. Is this normal?? A few years ago, I punctured the condensor in Baja and all the freon leaked out. I had the condensor replaced with a new one, and AC recharged, ever since then, it's had a small leak. My mechanic just adds a can of freon to my system whenever it stops cooling (once a year or so, last did it a month ago)

[SnowSurfLax]

I think they should get hot, as they're taking the heat out of the coolant. If I remember my chemistry right.

When you get a chance, you could always come over and check mine, it's the same year.

[kg03]

I know this is a stretch...............

Can we convert back to R-12 if one could get his hands on some? Will the system run on it? Only b/c I have the sme problem as fueler in that I can' get the unit to cool below fifty degrees in 90 degree days.