Aftermarket Air Conditioning Choices - Page 2 - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

68whitechevy · 07-05-2009, 11:31 AM

I have had an old air kit in my truck for 8 or so very trouble free years. I'm very happy with it and they are right down the road from me and are extremely helpful. When buying mine I remember going back and forth with Old Air and Vintage Air, I think the only reason I went with Old Air was the fact they were local and I could deal face to face.

72truckman · 07-10-2009, 11:28 PM

I need to buy one.... IM SOO UNDECIDED WHICH ONE TO BUY

72truckman · 08-26-2009, 09:55 PM

I think im gonna go with this kit: http://www.oldairproducts.com/catalo...oducts_id=4298
Anyone have experience with these guys?

nsuengineer06 · 08-27-2009, 12:18 PM

Big Al 71 I would LOVE to see those pics!

acl · 08-28-2009, 09:15 AM

Heres my 2¢ worth. I bought a Vintage Air Sure fit system at a Good Guys show. I didn't know much about them except i wanted A/C. I had already done all smoothing on the firewall and had it painted when this happened. The plumbing of this sure fit system was designed to protrude thru the firewall 3 to 4 inches and cover with a plastic piece. Did not look good. I called V/A and talked to a tech named Mark. I told him what i wanted and and the state of the truck and he said no problem, I sent mine back and they have a designed unit for my needs. It had the plumbing moved and the only thing that is on my firewall is a billet bulkhead, which can also be hid elsewhere. I think they will "make to order" if you have a plan. Anyway works great , they were great to work with, I called a coupl time with questions and they had all the answers. Did have a switch issue on install and replacement was sent out a.s.a.p. at no cost. My truck was a non air and i did install factory A/C controller. I also am not the brightest bulb in the box but it was a pretty straight forward install with a little help. Just my long winded opinion. Good luck. Gary

Ackattack · 08-28-2009, 09:59 AM

I went with an Old air kit. I haven't used it yet, so I can't comment on how it actually works.

However, I called them up and told them what I wanted. I'm using a genIII engine with the associated compressor, so I didn't need one of thier compressors. I also didn't get the condenser initially cause I was going to use an F-body one.

Turns out the f-body condenser wouldn't work, so I called them back and had a new stock style condenser in a few days.

The other thing that I liked is I can use a stock A/C control, so it will look stock (at least as far as the dash goes.)

I too have a shaved firewall, and have a bulkhead fitting that they threw into my "kit" no problem.

oldcarfart · 09-11-2009, 08:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 72truckman

So, at this point we have: Vintage Air, Old Air, Classic Auto Air, Hot ROd Air... any consensus on the best one?

don't forget southern air in greer, sc

**passthebuck** · 09-11-2009, 09:25 PM

Still waiting for an AC manufacturer who has a system with a fresh air intake. ALL I have seen so far are recirculated air...

westofb · 09-12-2009, 03:31 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by passthebuck

Still waiting for an AC manufacturer who has a system with a fresh air intake. ALL I have seen so far are recirculated air...

I hope you aren't holding your breath....lol! Get stock components if that is what you want...I don't understand why the aftermarket doesn't address this...I guess it would make their systems to vehicle specific!

**passthebuck** · 09-12-2009, 12:18 PM

I'm not holding my breath, but I am patient. Maybe I'll have to start making my requirement more known to the aftermarket air guys...

**leddzepp** · 09-12-2009, 01:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by westofb

I hope you aren't holding your breath....lol! Get stock components if that is what you want...I don't understand why the aftermarket doesn't address this...I guess it would make their systems to vehicle specific!

If your factory A/C is functioning properly, you should not have fresh air coming in, just recirculating air.

**passthebuck** · 09-12-2009, 01:22 PM

The AC & recirculated air isnt the problem, it's when it gets cold (Canada cold) & I need to defog the windows. You can't defog windows with recirculated air...

**leddzepp** · 09-12-2009, 01:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by passthebuck

The AC & recirculated air isnt the problem, it's when it gets cold (Canada cold) & I need to defog the windows. You can't defog windows with recirculated air...

That is correct. But in the previous post A/C is what was stated, not heat.

**passthebuck** · 09-12-2009, 01:33 PM

Sadly, there in lies the rub... It’s a one piece unit & both the heat & AC sides are intrinsically linked. They get their air from the same place...

**Thealien** · 09-12-2009, 02:18 PM

Kind of why I want to update and get my factory air working. This winter or next year?

VA72C10 · 09-20-2009, 12:58 AM

ttt

cparman · 09-20-2009, 08:13 AM

I just finished installing my Classic Auto Air kit in my 69. I took a very long day and a half. I used the non A/c control, but could have used a factory A/c control. The kit came with a factory center vent, and their adapter to the center vent. I chose to use their side vents, for a ( IMO ) cleaner look as you enter the doors. I put the blue painters tape on the dash before i started drilling holes, and their instruction said make sure you have a tight fit to the center vent. I do, but my dual dash speaker would not go back in. When I ordered the kit, I was unaware that it would come with a factory center vent ( did not look like one in the online instructions )
So, I ordered a updated center vent from Brothers, that they state will improve air flow from the C/V. I used this in my install, and was able to keep my dash speakers. Interestingly This Vent also kind of directs air more to the drivers side of the truck ( a bonus ) . In respect to Passthebuck's comment about not being able to defrost his windshield, most ALL late model cars have the a/c on in defrost mode. The kit I used will allow hot air to come from the vents and the A/c compressor is on. I chose to under charge the system by a couple of ounces, to be sure my pressures would be a bit on the low side. They are. I remember the first aftermarket kit I installed, could not understand why the low side was so low. Still don't, but that is just the way they want it. Oh Yea, my truck blows 34 degree air on a hot Florida day.

jojo · 09-20-2009, 09:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by cparman

Oh Yea, my truck blows 34 degree air on a hot Florida day.

I'm jealous.

cparman · 09-20-2009, 01:52 PM

JOJO old cheap Chip drove this truck two summers before I put A/c in my truck. Kind of think that there is an unwritten rule that when you are drivin your truck, your left arm should be out the window. Went to my shop for a bit this morning, and really enjoy the A/c

red71cheyenne · 09-20-2009, 10:02 PM

Well, I finally broke down and bought one from Brother's. Doesn't really say what it is, but it was on sale and I had the peso's. I'll tell you all about it when I get home and get the box open in November. Hope the install is as easy as everyone says it is.

jojo · 09-21-2009, 01:39 AM

Haha. When I'm in my 98 dodge, I drive with the drivers side window down and my left arm out the window... With the a/c on full blast.

jpttaylor · 03-05-2011, 02:55 PM

where can I find the sure fit kit for 1125 with polished compressor?

07-05-2009, 11:31 AM	#26
68whitechevy Registered User Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Texas Posts: 16	Re: Aftermarket Air Conditioning Choices I have had an old air kit in my truck for 8 or so very trouble free years. I'm very happy with it and they are right down the road from me and are extremely helpful. When buying mine I remember going back and forth with Old Air and Vintage Air, I think the only reason I went with Old Air was the fact they were local and I could deal face to face.

07-10-2009, 11:28 PM	#27
72truckman Registered User Join Date: Mar 2006 Location: San Ramon, California Posts: 276	Re: Aftermarket Air Conditioning Choices I need to buy one.... IM SOO UNDECIDED WHICH ONE TO BUY __________________ My 1972 Blazer 5.3 E85/ NV4500 5spd 4x4 Work in Progress http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=291482 **SOLD!!!!!** 1965 GMC 4X4 http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=294727 Last edited by 72truckman; 07-10-2009 at 11:29 PM.

08-26-2009, 09:55 PM	#28
72truckman Registered User Join Date: Mar 2006 Location: San Ramon, California Posts: 276	Re: Aftermarket Air Conditioning Choices I think im gonna go with this kit: http://www.oldairproducts.com/catalo...oducts_id=4298 Anyone have experience with these guys? __________________ My 1972 Blazer 5.3 E85/ NV4500 5spd 4x4 Work in Progress http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=291482 **SOLD!!!!!** 1965 GMC 4X4 http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=294727

08-27-2009, 12:18 PM	#29
nsuengineer06 Registered User Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: Natchitoches, Louisiana Posts: 230	Re: Aftermarket Air Conditioning Choices Big Al 71 I would LOVE to see those pics! __________________ 1967 C10 LWB 454/TH400 1971 C10 SWB 1984 C30 LWB Dually 454/4 spd 4:10 2003 GMC Sierra 2500HD Crew 4x4 6.6L Duramax/Allison

08-28-2009, 09:15 AM	#30
acl Registered User Join Date: May 2007 Location: Emporia, kansas Posts: 300	Re: Aftermarket Air Conditioning Choices Heres my 2¢ worth. I bought a Vintage Air Sure fit system at a Good Guys show. I didn't know much about them except i wanted A/C. I had already done all smoothing on the firewall and had it painted when this happened. The plumbing of this sure fit system was designed to protrude thru the firewall 3 to 4 inches and cover with a plastic piece. Did not look good. I called V/A and talked to a tech named Mark. I told him what i wanted and and the state of the truck and he said no problem, I sent mine back and they have a designed unit for my needs. It had the plumbing moved and the only thing that is on my firewall is a billet bulkhead, which can also be hid elsewhere. I think they will "make to order" if you have a plan. Anyway works great , they were great to work with, I called a coupl time with questions and they had all the answers. Did have a switch issue on install and replacement was sent out a.s.a.p. at no cost. My truck was a non air and i did install factory A/C controller. I also am not the brightest bulb in the box but it was a pretty straight forward install with a little help. Just my long winded opinion. Good luck. Gary

08-28-2009, 09:59 AM	#31
Ackattack Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2002 Location: Valley Center KS Posts: 3,524	Re: Aftermarket Air Conditioning Choices I went with an Old air kit. I haven't used it yet, so I can't comment on how it actually works. However, I called them up and told them what I wanted. I'm using a genIII engine with the associated compressor, so I didn't need one of thier compressors. I also didn't get the condenser initially cause I was going to use an F-body one. Turns out the f-body condenser wouldn't work, so I called them back and had a new stock style condenser in a few days. The other thing that I liked is I can use a stock A/C control, so it will look stock (at least as far as the dash goes.) I too have a shaved firewall, and have a bulkhead fitting that they threw into my "kit" no problem. __________________ Project Bruiser: 68 Pro-Touring C-10 5.3L / 4L60E Project Ironhide: 97 GMC Crew Cab 4x4 Cummins SOLD: '69 GMC 1/2T SWB TBI'd: Project No Buck Assembly Manual Index Sign up Thread!!! Factory Service Manual Index

09-11-2009, 09:25 PM	#33
passthebuck Sisyphus was my mentor! Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: Carleton Place, Ontario CANADA Posts: 984	Re: Aftermarket Air Conditioning Choices Still waiting for an AC manufacturer who has a system with a fresh air intake. ALL I have seen so far are recirculated air... __________________ passthebuck #5642 -TWO 1967 GMC 910's. One with L6/3-on-the tree and the other with 355 w/435hp & a 700r4. -a 2013 Honda Civic as my "sensible" car

09-12-2009, 12:18 PM	#35
passthebuck Sisyphus was my mentor! Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: Carleton Place, Ontario CANADA Posts: 984	Re: Aftermarket Air Conditioning Choices I'm not holding my breath, but I am patient. Maybe I'll have to start making my requirement more known to the aftermarket air guys... __________________ passthebuck #5642 -TWO 1967 GMC 910's. One with L6/3-on-the tree and the other with 355 w/435hp & a 700r4. -a 2013 Honda Civic as my "sensible" car

09-12-2009, 01:22 PM	#37
passthebuck Sisyphus was my mentor! Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: Carleton Place, Ontario CANADA Posts: 984	Re: Aftermarket Air Conditioning Choices The AC & recirculated air isnt the problem, it's when it gets cold (Canada cold) & I need to defog the windows. You can't defog windows with recirculated air... __________________ passthebuck #5642 -TWO 1967 GMC 910's. One with L6/3-on-the tree and the other with 355 w/435hp & a 700r4. -a 2013 Honda Civic as my "sensible" car

09-12-2009, 01:33 PM	#39
passthebuck Sisyphus was my mentor! Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: Carleton Place, Ontario CANADA Posts: 984	Re: Aftermarket Air Conditioning Choices Sadly, there in lies the rub... It’s a one piece unit & both the heat & AC sides are intrinsically linked. They get their air from the same place... __________________ passthebuck #5642 -TWO 1967 GMC 910's. One with L6/3-on-the tree and the other with 355 w/435hp & a 700r4. -a 2013 Honda Civic as my "sensible" car

09-12-2009, 02:18 PM	#40
Thealien Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Pine Ridge Florida Posts: 4,134	Re: Aftermarket Air Conditioning Choices Kind of why I want to update and get my factory air working. This winter or next year?

09-20-2009, 12:58 AM	#41
VA72C10 VA72C10 Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Midlothian, VA Posts: 25,267	Re: Aftermarket Air Conditioning Choices ttt __________________ Looking for a 67-72 swb or blazer project in or around VA.

09-20-2009, 08:13 AM	#42
cparman sharp as a marble Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: atlantic beach,florida Posts: 1,082	Re: Aftermarket Air Conditioning Choices I just finished installing my Classic Auto Air kit in my 69. I took a very long day and a half. I used the non A/c control, but could have used a factory A/c control. The kit came with a factory center vent, and their adapter to the center vent. I chose to use their side vents, for a ( IMO ) cleaner look as you enter the doors. I put the blue painters tape on the dash before i started drilling holes, and their instruction said make sure you have a tight fit to the center vent. I do, but my dual dash speaker would not go back in. When I ordered the kit, I was unaware that it would come with a factory center vent ( did not look like one in the online instructions ) So, I ordered a updated center vent from Brothers, that they state will improve air flow from the C/V. I used this in my install, and was able to keep my dash speakers. Interestingly This Vent also kind of directs air more to the drivers side of the truck ( a bonus ) . In respect to Passthebuck's comment about not being able to defrost his windshield, most ALL late model cars have the a/c on in defrost mode. The kit I used will allow hot air to come from the vents and the A/c compressor is on. I chose to under charge the system by a couple of ounces, to be sure my pressures would be a bit on the low side. They are. I remember the first aftermarket kit I installed, could not understand why the low side was so low. Still don't, but that is just the way they want it. Oh Yea, my truck blows 34 degree air on a hot Florida day. Attached Images Last edited by cparman; 09-20-2009 at 08:16 AM.

09-20-2009, 01:52 PM	#44
cparman sharp as a marble Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: atlantic beach,florida Posts: 1,082	Re: Aftermarket Air Conditioning Choices JOJO old cheap Chip drove this truck two summers before I put A/c in my truck. Kind of think that there is an unwritten rule that when you are drivin your truck, your left arm should be out the window. Went to my shop for a bit this morning, and really enjoy the A/c Last edited by cparman; 09-20-2009 at 01:53 PM.

09-20-2009, 10:02 PM	#45
red71cheyenne Back in the sticks Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: Fordland, MO Posts: 3,188	Re: Aftermarket Air Conditioning Choices Well, I finally broke down and bought one from Brother's. Doesn't really say what it is, but it was on sale and I had the peso's. I'll tell you all about it when I get home and get the box open in November. Hope the install is as easy as everyone says it is. __________________ 1971 Cheyenne C-10 w/700R4 and Tuned Port Injection 1969 K5 Blazer w/Tuned Port 2010 2SS/RS Flaming Orange Camaro 2011 K1500 Suburban 2014 K1500 Pickup 2008 Nissan Altima? The wifes' hoopty



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09-21-2009, 01:39 AM	#46
jojo printing is my trade Join Date: May 2009 Location: San Antonio, Texas Posts: 349	Re: Aftermarket Air Conditioning Choices Haha. When I'm in my 98 dodge, I drive with the drivers side window down and my left arm out the window... With the a/c on full blast. __________________ Jojo's '70 stepside build thread: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=344184

03-05-2011, 02:55 PM	#47
jpttaylor Registered User Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Huntsvegas AL Posts: 29	Re: Aftermarket Air Conditioning Choices where can I find the sure fit kit for 1125 with polished compressor?

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