Aftermarket A/C with Factory Heater

[jojo]

If this has been addressed in another thread please let me know.

I've read complaints about guys not being able to defrost their window with aftermarket a/c.

I wanted to know this is possible (or even if anybody thinks its necessary in hot texas):

Can I install aftermarket A/C with factory heater core in order to retain a proper defrosting capabilities?

My concern is not only the cold but rather when it rains, is it needed to have the defroster?

Looking for anybody's input, since I'm hoping to pull the trigger on purchasing the system in the next few weeks..

[68gmsee]

ttt -- I'd like to know also and in case someone knows the answer.

However, I think the best thing to do is to contact the manufacturer before purchasing to see if the unit has a defrost option. We need the defroster here in Texas like anywhere else -at least where I'm at.

I'm not positive on this one but I don't think the old vehicles did not have the ac/defrost option back then. You either had ac or defrost but not both and the ac is what quickly removes the moisture.

[magicoolbus]

My 'vintage air' sure fit AC unit has heat and defrost. The defrost setting does turn the compressor on and gives your the 'dry air' needed for proper defogging, you just adjust the temp lever for the desired heat range. If your looking to keep the engine bay stock looking, I don't have an answer for you.

[425HP409]

See the thread "Vintage Air" today at 7:15 pm.
I have installed many of the Vintage air type systems, the defrost works better than the factory heater/defroster as it turns the ac compressor to dehumidify the air. I had an underdash air system in my truck and I would just turn on the AC with the defroster when I wanted to defrost the windows fast.

[Lemield]

Nostalgic Air Products sells an underdash system that leaves the stock heater system intact, except for a small modification to the heater box as illustrated in the pictures on their website.

Vintage Air and others make great systems but they all supply a fiberglass or plastic glovebox insert.....I have a custom glovebox radio and I don't want to give that up....so the underdash system from NAP is the best choice I've found. I am planning to order one soon.

http://www.nostalgicairparts.com/air...system-351.php

[69sixpackbee]

...but NONE of them offer outside fresh air or blending capabilities. Been there and done that. The evaporator cores on most of those "hotrod" systems equal the size of the ones in a hallway water fountain! After tinkering with two "aftermarket" systems from reputable mfg's that I need not name as they are top suppliers to the industry, I did myself a favor and fabbed in an OEM Four Seasons setup to my original non-air truck. This has been the best addition to date.
Nothing beats the factory system!

[Lemield]

I totally agree that the factory GM stuff is the best.

[68gmsee]

Originally Posted by Lemield

Nostalgic Air Products sells an underdash system that leaves the stock heater system intact, except for a small modification to the heater box as illustrated in the pictures on their website.....

http://www.nostalgicairparts.com/air...system-351.php

I like this unit from Nostalgic Air, but it says it doesn't work with manual tranmissions. I wonder what that has to do with the a/c?

http://www.nostalgicairparts.com/air...system-405.php

[Lemield]

Originally Posted by 68gmsee

I like this unit from Nostalgic Air, but it says it doesn't work with manual tranmissions. I wonder what that has to do with the a/c?

http://www.nostalgicairparts.com/air...system-405.php

Good question....I've been told their customer service is really good, so you might want to email them or call and ask.

[69sixpackbee]

Originally Posted by 68gmsee

I like this unit from Nostalgic Air, but it says it doesn't work with manual tranmissions. I wonder what that has to do with the a/c?

http://www.nostalgicairparts.com/air...system-405.php

Probably because the floor shifter will smack it But the column shift should be okay.