Rehooking up unknown factory air

[greywurm]

My c10 came originally with factory air, but before I got it, someone switched out the 350 to the 250 i6 and an A/c compressor was not present, nor was the heater core hooked up.

I have since replaced the i6 with another 350 sbc, and wound up using a serpentine belt system I pulled from a 92 1500. I also took the compressor from the 92.

Now I want to hook up the heater core and see what all I need to do to get the A/C going, but I don't know where to start.

Can I use the original factory air components that should be there with the newer compressor? Is it ok to mix r12 and r134a components? Which kind of compressor do I have? I have seen a few types mentioned and I dont know which is which.

I put "should" in italics because I really dont know what all should be there to begin with, but from a novice, it appears complete (minus the deteriorated ducting that will need to be replaced and some hoses for the compressor to whatever).

Any help you guys can provide would be great. I really don't know where to start with this one.

[Bigdav160]

The R4 compressor is completely fine for use with R134a. GM used it that way in '94 and '95 models.

You'll want to change the drier to a new one. The old desiccant in it is not compatible with R134a.

There's a chance the TXV (expansion valve) is stuck from sitting with no lubrication. The POA valve will need to a pressure adjustment to work effectively with R134a.

Likely, you'll want to change the hoses to the newer style (takes a little tweaking to fit with the R4 compressor) and while your at it, update the condenser to a more modern design.

[greywurm]

sounds like it is doable but need to do some more research on these parts

[Andy4639]

Give these guy's a call. They can help you.

Classic air. Any good local AC shop should be able to get you going. I bought the hose kit from Classic air but had a local shop do all the crimping and checked everything.

http://www.classicautoair.com/

[greywurm]

thanks andy, i emailed them yesterday and we are in touch.

[cooperhw]

Originally Posted by Bigdav160

The R4 compressor is completely fine for use with R134a. GM used it that way in '94 and '95 models.

You'll want to change the drier to a new one. The old desiccant in it is not compatible with R134a.

There's a chance the TXV (expansion valve) is stuck from sitting with no lubrication. The POA valve will need to a pressure adjustment to work effectively with R134a.

Likely, you'll want to change the hoses to the newer style (takes a little tweaking to fit with the R4 compressor) and while your at it, update the condenser to a more modern design.

good info. thanks.

[motorcritter]

You could also install an orifice tube/accumulator set-up like a 83-87, no POA to worry about, less plumbing to deal with. It looks like you've got nothing between the compressor and the evaporator- might as well update now. Also, get a newer style, more efficient condensor- it'll make a marked difference in cooling ability.

[Andy4639]

Originally Posted by motorcritter

You could also install an orifice tube/accumulator set-up like a 83-87, no POA to worry about, less plumbing to deal with. It looks like you've got nothing between the compressor and the evaporator- might as well update now. Also, get a newer style, more efficient condensor- it'll make a marked difference in cooling ability.

This is what I did in my 71.