Updated Air Conditioning available?

[Lugnutt]

One of the things I'm going to need to get right in the restoration of my 72 Chev is a good working air conditioning system. With the old freon no longer available for my factory unit, are there new updated AC units that can be retro-fitted that take the new freon gas? If so, what parts need to be replaced and what old parts can be re-used? Also, where are the new components sold? I sure could use some advice on this one... thanks in advance.

Gary from San Jose

[Olden Days]

two off the top of my head are vintage air and old air. either one totaly replaces your factory stuff. keep your factory vents and controls or use theirs. they both have thier own web sites that are easy to look up. I got the vinage air in mine. It works pretty good. I asked around about getting what I needed to fix my factory one up right and was told that by the time I got done spending money I could by the new vintage air for about the same price.
welcome to the forum by the way !!

[WorkinLonghorn]

Lugnut,if you're short of funds just use "Freeze 12" in your system after you find and repair any leaks.
Sometimes the O-rings in the connections leak and they can be replaced for pennies. If the compressor seal leaks,replace it.
They make a special comb to straighten out the condenser fins.
I use Freeze 12 in my car in place of Freon 12 and I don't notice any difference. It's under $10 a can,I think it was $8.
Once you understand the above you may be able to save at least a G.

I'm also in Cali and if you are in the L.A.area I can steer you to a place that supplies Freeze 12,it is legal btw.-Cougar

[Lugnutt]

Thanks for the advice Cougar and Olden Days, now I have some decisions to make. I've got a good budget set aside for this restore but I also got a lot of things that need to be done. Good air conditioning is important so I'm going to research both options. Thanks again for your help.

Gary from San Jose