5.3 with a/c question - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

1970 C10 MJW · 10-29-2012, 01:47 PM

I am goin to be converting to a LS based engine soon, i am thinking probably a 5.3, my 70 c10 has never had A/C do you guys think it would be worth investing in it?? I would probably use A/c parts off a 99 or newer truck, to prevent from doing a R12 conversion.

Andy4639 · 10-29-2012, 07:57 PM

I put the whole system in mine and haven't looked back. It's one of the nicest mods I've done to the 71. You want regret it. Don't know how much of the 99 stuff will fit but the compressor will with the right mounts.

Critter · 10-29-2012, 08:06 PM

If it is originally a NON-AC cab I would buy a kit from Vintage Air. I would purchase everything normally in the kit EXCEPT the compressor. If you call them they will sell it to you this way. Then go find a competent A/C shop and they can connect the factory 5.3 compressor to the Vintage Air components.

Actually I typed that in the wrong order. Find the competent AC shop first, tell them what you want to do, then confirm what parts you should buy from Vintage Air and what parts they will want to build (fittings, hoses, etc). In my opinion that is by far the best and easiest solution.

View Poll Results: To air condition or to not?
Add A/C to the build	8	88.89%
Not worth the money	1	11.11%
Are you nutz?	0	0%
Multiple Choice Poll. Voters: 9. You may not vote on this poll

10-29-2012, 01:47 PM	#1
1970 C10 MJW Registered User Join Date: Aug 2012 Location: Indiana Posts: 470	5.3 with a/c question I am goin to be converting to a LS based engine soon, i am thinking probably a 5.3, my 70 c10 has never had A/C do you guys think it would be worth investing in it?? I would probably use A/c parts off a 99 or newer truck, to prevent from doing a R12 conversion. __________________ 70 C10 working on a LSx swap 4.8L MS3 edelbrock pro flo intake, pacesetter long tubes, 4l60e 2500 stall hoping the tranny holds up lol

10-29-2012, 07:57 PM	#2
Andy4639 Old member Join Date: Jan 2002 Location: Liberty, & Garden City S.C. , U.S. Posts: 19,936	Re: 5.3 with a/c question I put the whole system in mine and haven't looked back. It's one of the nicest mods I've done to the 71. You want regret it. Don't know how much of the 99 stuff will fit but the compressor will with the right mounts. __________________ 1971 LWB Custom, 6.0LS & 4L80E, Speedhut.com GPS speedometer & gauges with A/C. 20" Boss 338's Grey wheels 4 wheel disc brakes. My Driver Seeing the USA in a 71 Upstate SC GM Truck Club 2013,14 and 2016 Hot Rod Pour Tour http://upstategmtrucks.com/ Get out and drive the truck this summer and have some fun! It sucks not being able to hear! LWB trucks rule, if you don't think so measure your SWB! After talking to tech support at Air Lift I have found out that the kit I need is 60811. Per the measurements I gave them. Ride height of truck inside spring and inside diameter of springs.

10-29-2012, 08:06 PM	#3
Critter Future TOTM Winner Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: Bulverde, TX Posts: 2,692	Re: 5.3 with a/c question If it is originally a NON-AC cab I would buy a kit from Vintage Air. I would purchase everything normally in the kit EXCEPT the compressor. If you call them they will sell it to you this way. Then go find a competent A/C shop and they can connect the factory 5.3 compressor to the Vintage Air components. Actually I typed that in the wrong order. Find the competent AC shop first, tell them what you want to do, then confirm what parts you should buy from Vintage Air and what parts they will want to build (fittings, hoses, etc). In my opinion that is by far the best and easiest solution. __________________ 72 Chevy CST K5 HIGHLANDER BLAZER Getting a 6.0,NV4500,NP205,14BFF (Currently laying all over the place in little pieces) 72 Chevy swb step-side "LS" 6.0 Here's a build thread of sorts 2002 HD2500 Crew Cab, 8.1L Allison 4x4 Daily Driver Check it out www.lsdyno.com



Register or Log In To remove these advertisements.

Register or Log In To remove these advertisements.