Ac delete on 84 3.2?

[JDhiker]

So right now I’m prepping for engine removal… I keep looking at the AC Compressor and lines filling up my engine compartment . I know it’s empty been sitting for many years empty. Are there caps or plugs available to plug off the lines in the engine compartment just in case I want to re install with newer components down the line?

Or have many of you just deleted for good?
it’s a 1984. 3.2

[berndtj]

The previous owner of mine had left the lines in "just in case". The reality was that everything was in such poor shape that I would have to replace it all if I wanted to go back to AC. One of my first projects was just removing any last semblance of the AC system in my car. Of course I live in the PNW and have a Targa, so AC delete is basically a feature for me.

[GH85Carrera]

It all depends on how hot it gets in your area, and do you ever want your wife to ride with you.

When I had my AC as 100% stock, it was OK for night time, and great to help defog the windshield in the rain. I just quit driving it in the hottest part of the year.

I finally upgraded my AC to Griffith's Technology kick butt level, and now I drive in any level of heat in total comfort and my wife is happy to ride with me.

Just make the car fit your needs and wishes. It is just a car, and any changes can be unchanged or fixed.

[JDhiker]

Originally Posted by GH85Carrera

It all depends on how hot it gets in your area, and do you ever want your wife to ride with you.


Just make the car fit your needs and wishes. It is just a car, and any changes can be unchanged or fixed.

I think that’s the plan, make it so it can go back in. Most likely would get an upgrade anyway. When you had yours upgraded were any of the coils used or was it basically all new components? We talking like 5-10K .


And unfortunately it gets hot and Humid in New England and it’s a Black on Black car… Targa helps though. Not using the top a lot

[911 Rod]

When I pulled the main lines there was rust starting where they were tight to the body.
Years of track gummies and asphalt caked in real good.

[darrin]

JDhiker -- recently went through the same thing with my '86 targa. Hadn't used AC in years and was tired of seeing it all in the engine compartment, etc.

Ended up deciding to get a/c working and happy with my decision. I installed the Griffiths "AC Reliability Package Upgrade 2," (see https://griffiths.com/product/911-1984-to-1989-reliability-package-upgrade-2/) which replaced my compressor, all A/C piping, front condenser and evaporator. Only part that remained (other than ducting between frunk and dashboard) was the engine deckled condenser.

I seriously considered adding the extra rear fender condenser/fan upgrade, but decided to skip it, as it would be easy to add to A/C system if it wasn't sufficient. Very happy with the Griffiths system as-installed, it keeps car quite cool (having targa roof on definitely helps) and so far haven't felt need to add extra condenser. Had system installed 3 years ago and still holding charge a-ok.

If you do decide to get rid of the compressor and not do an a/c replacement, I'd recommend leaving the rest of the system in place, as it will make it easier to change them out if/when you decide to get A/C working.

[JDhiker]

Originally Posted by darrin

JDhiker -- recently went through the same thing with my '86 targa. Hadn't used AC in years and was tired of seeing it all in the engine compartment, etc.

Ended up deciding to get a/c working and happy with my decision. I installed the Griffiths "AC Reliability Package Upgrade 2," (see https://griffiths.com/product/911-1984-to-1989-reliability-package-upgrade-2/) which replaced my compressor, all A/C piping, front condenser and evaporator. Only part that remained (other than ducting between frunk and dashboard) was the engine deckled condenser.

I seriously considered adding the extra rear fender condenser/fan upgrade, but decided to skip it, as it would be easy to add to A/C system if it wasn't sufficient. Very happy with the Griffiths system as-installed, it keeps car quite cool (having targa roof on definitely helps) and so far haven't felt need to add extra condenser. Had system installed 3 years ago and still holding charge a-ok.

If you do decide to get rid of the compressor and not do an a/c replacement, I'd recommend leaving the rest of the system in place, as it will make it easier to change them out if/when you decide to get A/C working.

Still the question remains how to seal what’s left of the system. Which I guess may not matter as it will need to be changed out anyway. Even if I keep AC it has to be converted which will mean new components.

[darrin]

think you hit the nail on the head -- whatever you do, you'll need to evacuate and flush whatever you end up keeping (likely only rear deck condenser) and throw out the rest. Ideally, if there's anything left, freon-wise in your system, you'd want to have it evacuated and captured -- vs dumping it into the atmosphere.

[rolfjahn]

I had Griffiths on both cars, removed and purchased Classic Retrofit alternators and AC. It made the engine compartment very clean with no draw on the engine. The $900 150 amp WOSP alternators changed the way my engine runs (sounds cleaner) along with my LED light setup-which I know doesn't make any sense, but there is nothing stock or original anymore with either of my Pcars. I also built high power audio systems for each car. 2 JL Audio amps and a head unit with a burr brown DAC.

[grb008]

You can't seal what's left it escapes out and leaves the oil behind in the compressor and lines. They do make plugs for the lines that screw in to keep out dirt My new lines all had plugs on them. I just replaced my entire 1984 system with brand new griffiths parts including compressor and added my own variable blower speed control with griffiths super kool motor for evaporator.

My thought is you will need everything. You could replace all the o rings and then draw a vacuum and see how long it lasts at vacuum. As long as nothing remains in the form of r12 in the system. That will tell you if you have any leaks. My whole system was shot so just gutted it and replaced.

Everything was swiss cheese.

[Jonny H]

If your AC system has been sat for years empty then it's most likely past repair. These systems don't generally come back to life unless they have been used and maintained.

[JDhiker]

Originally Posted by grb008

You can't seal what's left it escapes out and leaves the oil behind in the compressor and lines. They do make plugs for the lines that screw in to keep out dirt My new lines all had plugs on them. I just replaced my entire 1984 system with brand new griffiths parts including compressor and added my own variable blower speed control with griffiths super kool motor for evaporator.

My thought is you will need everything. You could replace all the o rings and then draw a vacuum and see how long it lasts at vacuum. As long as nothing remains in the form of r12 in the system. That will tell you if you have any leaks. My whole system was shot so just gutted it and replaced.

Everything was swiss cheese.

Good. I’m ripping it out. I will know later if I really need to put a new one Back in. I like the windows down and the sound of the engine. And Mostley a clean easy to get to engine compartment !
Thanks

[wazzz]

Only reason I would keep the lines in car is for when or if you plan to replace them with Griffith's barrier hoses.
I found it easier to route new lines with the old ones attached with a rope. That way you can't miss a hole or path. The three coils can be removed and stored. Coils can be reused if stored properly and fully flushed.

[JDhiker]

Originally Posted by wazzz

Only reason I would keep the lines in car is for when or if you plan to replace them with Griffith's barrier hoses.
I found it easier to route new lines with the old ones attached with a rope. That way you can't miss a hole or path. The three coils can be removed and stored. Coils can be reused if stored properly and fully flushed.

Yes I agree leaving lines in so I also know how they run. Will be taking the condenser off the whale tail, lots of weight on that lid. Heavy on the lift struts.

If it wasn’t for how poor the AC is even in “Good” condition I may have tried to resurrect … but Meh !

[grb008]

Ditto on the lines. I tied paracord to the lines and pulled the cord through the openings. Then pulled all my lines through with the paracord. The driver side rear was a complete bear for me to get through. You will also need new foam blocks to stuff up there after removing the lines as they will be disintegrated. Also lube up the heater exchange valves and cables while up there.

[nospiners]

i can use your all compressor as a core if you want to sell it..

[911 Rod]

Originally Posted by nospiners

i can use your all compressor as a core if you want to sell it..

I've been trying to sell all my A/C stuff for years.

[JDhiker]

Originally Posted by grb008

Ditto on the lines. I tied paracord to the lines and pulled the cord through the openings. Then pulled all my lines through with the paracord. The driver side rear was a complete bear for me to get through. You will also need new foam blocks to stuff up there after removing the lines as they will be disintegrated. Also lube up the heater exchange valves and cables while up there.

Great idea!!!
That could work for fuel lines as well. Paracord is super strong

[fallingat120mph]

Originally Posted by JDhiker

Good. I’m ripping it out. I will know later if I really need to put a new one Back in. I like the windows down and the sound of the engine. And Mostley a clean easy to get to engine compartment !
Thanks

I live in south Texas and removed my A/C. I am in my 50's and drive my 86 coupe all year around. The Porsches follow the motorcycle routine...of course if it's 100 degrees here I am probably not driving/riding either...but did I buy my 911 to get groceries in 100 degrees...??? I have road tripped both 911's across country with no A/C in either and it is very doable...summer and fall. In the summer my wife and I run errands in the morning and do coffee runs in the Hill Country at sunrise.

My A/C was excellent and worked well but was always concerned with engine temps more than being comfortable. Of course I bought my 911's to use and don't mind a little sweat and have always been a windows down driver. Growing up in Europe and the Midwest (Iowa) maybe I just have a different perspective.

Seems people today are afraid of fresh air ?!?


If I really wanted A/C I would invest in the aftermarket systems (...and don't rule it out.). I have kept everything (because of the "you never know" crowds in all forums ) in two smallish tubs that I removed to include interior center console. It has been great for working on the engine - from dropping completely to simple air filter replacements.


Agree, wholeheartedly with others, in regards to make it for you to use and drive. I find myself, as I get older, really appreciating the cars that are used and tastefully made personal vs the showroom, garage queen cars. I want to hear the story of 200,000 mile 911 with rock chips vs the 35,000 mile all original...but I digress.

If you do remove keep it honest. All my parts are in well labeled zip lock bags of different sizes, etc...so really commit to being organized and just knowing some of the parts will probably need replaced or upgraded. I removed everything in the front, rear and cabin and my reason was strictly trying to take out items/systems that complicate the car...didn't really give a crap about weight - but, added bonus


Some good responses here and wanted you to hear from someone who has removed, in a hot part of the country, and has no regrets but was very realistic about the outcome of an A/C delete.


Good luck!

[JDhiker]

Falling !

Perfect exactly what I wanted to hear. Those are my exact thought right down to bins and ziplock bags..I already do that ha ha . I want the wind in my hair and the sun shining down. Along with the sound of the 3.2 roaring down the road. I cant wait !