A/C System

[wayneharron]

So I'm needing some advice. I have a 71 cheyenne super with factory air. The system is complete. The only thing I've replaced is the compressor which was missing when I bought the truck. I'm debating fixing the factory air system or replacing it with a vintage air system. Any thoughts?

[dmjlambert]

I like similar-to-factory air. I went with Original Air. I want a functional glove box and functional engine compartment evaporator casing and blower. Here is my experience. https://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/...d.php?t=790246

[Jason Banks]

In my experience, the compressor is the weak link in the factory system.

If you truck is mostly original I would try to retain the factory system and possibly convert to a new Sanden compressor.

The vintage air will get rid of the fiberglass box on the firewall and everything packages nicely under the dash. The vintage air system I had worked great and I will definitely install again, but not in an 'original' truck.

[MARKDTN]

Originally Posted by Jason Banks

In my experience, the compressor is the weak link in the factory system.

If you truck is mostly original I would try to retain the factory system and possibly convert to a new Sanden compressor.

The vintage air will get rid of the fiberglass box on the firewall and everything packages nicely under the dash. The vintage air system I had worked great and I will definitely install again, but not in an 'original' truck.

What he said.

[DA71Grande]

Kind of in the same boat, My compressor went out in mine and on the fence of rebuilding the stock compressor or buying a new compressor. Really want to keep the factory look.

This is the compressor I’m looking at



https://www.oldairproducts.com/produ...=p124208-o2335

[leddzepp]

I always go with factory AC when it’s complete. I use an A12 replacement compressor which fits the factory brackets. I use R12 as the system is designed for and have zero problems that way and enjoy ice cold air in 110 degree heat.

[1970cstblazer]

I use R12 in all of my vintage vehicles. It's still fairly easy to locate.

[Steeveedee]

^ I bought a 30# tank at Pep Boys just before one had to have a license to buy it. I went to CostCo just before that, only to find that some guy had just bought the last two pallets. My tank is pretty much empty after all those years. Where are people finding it, these days?

[1970cstblazer]

Carlisle always has some available. I have my EPA 609 cert, but nobody ever requires me to show it when purchasing it there. I have quite a few of the 14 oz cans right now to top off the systems if needed.

[kaycee]

I converted my stock a/c over to a swap meet 605 compressor, new ebay condensor and late model evaporator. Blows 45* at vent outlets easy to do a little mod here and there but still works great allso purchased an a/ac line kit from old air .Going on 3 years not 1 problem

[JamesRKing72]

I'm looking into the same thing with my 71. Most of the system is gone but the box with evaporator is still there. It has been left open to the elements for 30+ years so will require all new parts. The only thing I'm worried about is mounting brackets that will work with the headers.

[MikeB]

Originally Posted by JamesRKing72

The only thing I'm worried about is mounting brackets that will work with the headers.

That shouldn't be a worry. On my 350 with a Sanden compressor, I used the standard Vintage Air bracket with a spacer and longer bolt to secure the bracket to the front header bolt hole. That's the spacer behind the #2 spark plug wire. Actually, you can see where I used two spacers there.

[davischevy]

Nothing wrong with aftermarket systems, but I prefer original.

[68 C10 Driver]

Originally Posted by leddzepp

I always go with factory AC when it’s complete. I use an A12 replacement compressor which fits the factory brackets. I use R12 as the system is designed for and have zero problems that way and enjoy ice cold air in 110 degree heat.

What is the going rate per pound for R12?

[leddzepp]

Originally Posted by 68 C10 Driver

What is the going rate per pound for R12?

I see it on OfferUp, marketplace, etc for around $20 a can. That’s about the same price as r134 around here. I’ve stockpiled it for years and have more than I’ll ever need should I buy more classic vehicles. Swap meets are a great place to find it for even less.

[PbFut]

If anyone here is going to swap over to aftermarket, I need a left evaporator cover in good condition. The engine fire cooked the cover closest to engine and I will need to replace.

[MikeB]

Originally Posted by leddzepp

I always go with factory AC when it’s complete. I use an A12 replacement compressor which fits the factory brackets. I use R12 as the system is designed for and have zero problems that way and enjoy ice cold air in 110 degree heat.

Yes, if you can can keep the stock system working, I doubt any aftermarket system will work as well. Actually, they may cool as well, but I've found the controls and wiring to be kludgey on some.

On another note, the stock systems don't cycle, do they?

As for 134a prices, our local parts stores have it for around $12, and I see where it's $9.98 at Wal-Mart.

I bought a 12-pack a few years ago at Sam's Club for $50-something. It's now $100. I wonder if a lot of that increase is federal taxes???