How to remove A/C ??

cbeers · 03-20-2006, 03:29 PM

OK, this may be an easy one, but can I get some pointers on removing the A/C system from my 1987 Carrera?

Is it as simple as take it apart or are them some safety concerns too? Seems to me that the system is under pressure and would need to be "bled" off first?

I did try the archives, no luck so far....'

Thanks in advance

-Chris

Scott R · Scott R's Garage

If it's under pressure you will need to get it legally discharged. Most A/C shops will not even charge you for that service since they can recycle your expensive R12.

cantdrv55 · 03-20-2006, 03:40 PM

You still looking for ways to go faster? You already beat most everyone at the last autox!

slodave · slodave's Garage

As long as the freon is emptied, it is fairly easy. Condensor under rear deck lid, condensor under front of car, hoses (if you are not planning to keep hoses, cut the ends and it is easier to remove). blower inside smuggler's box.

Hope this helps...

Dave

cbeers · 03-21-2006, 07:29 AM

Well, the 964 tail I just picked up will mean no more A/C. At least that's what I am reading in the archives. I would like to keep it as it does still work fairly well, but it's not something I use very often.

So, if I am understanding this correctly, once I get it discharged at a shop, THEN I can start removing the system?

I don't think this will happen before Thill then

Any other input??

-Chris

Scott R · Scott R's Garage

Correct, its illegal to vent R12 to the open environment, if you have had a 134A conversion then it's a different issue, however due to your year I am assuming that you have R12. Too bad you're not in Denver I would come to you and discharge it.

cbeers · 03-21-2006, 09:35 AM

yup. R12, that's one of the reasons I have been keeping it, it still does work OK.

Well, time to call some shops and see what they will do.

Thanks for the replies guys

-Chris

syncroid · 03-21-2006, 09:37 AM

Hey Chris bring it by RMG. You need to go on a good road trip anyways....right?

Dan

SpecCarrera · SpecCarrera's Garage

Hey Chris,

I have an 87 Targa, and want to get rid of mine too...
mine isn't cold, so want take some stress off the motor.
A bit more power doesn't hurt either for POC or SCCA solo2
or TT!

Patrick

cbeers · 03-21-2006, 10:20 AM

Hey Patrick,

Nice car! You might want to look into the effects of a rear tail without a front chin spoiler though. I am sure you already know this

Dan, it would have to be on a weekend. I'll be in town on 4/1/06 if that works. say hi to the other Dan(s) and Bob too for me!!

-Chris

SpecCarrera · SpecCarrera's Garage

Thanks... 87-89 best years... bought it last October..

actually, I just added the oem front spoiler.. just an older pic of the car.. it looks better, hides the front bar, and seems a bit smoother at speed-- hope to get the car out to Willow Springs in next few months...

If u do pics of the a/c removal later, please post...

Patrick

syncroid · 03-21-2006, 10:57 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by cbeers

Dan, it would have to be on a weekend. I'll be in town on 4/1/06 if that works. say hi to the other Dan(s) and Bob too for me!!

-Chris [/B]

I might be able to be convinced to come in on a Saturday.

I'll have to show you my new twin plug 3.4 setup.

cbeers · 03-21-2006, 10:59 AM

3.4 TP

Dan, I mean this in the best possible way:

you BASTARD !!!!

OK, I'll keep you posted.....

-Chris

syncroid · 03-21-2006, 11:02 AM

Schwing!

ianc · 03-21-2006, 07:27 PM

Chris,

If you haven't used the thing in awhile, it's likely that there really isn't much in there anyway. I went through this on both my cars, and when I used a screwdriver to press on the release valve (after carefully covering my head and averting my face), I was greeted with a whole lot of nuthin!

I've done this job on the SC and the Carrera, so if you need help, just let me know and I'll be glad to come up and give you a hand. You buy the beers of course!

ianc

Jastx · Jastx's Garage

Why would you remove your A/C? How much performance do you really think you will gain by removing its small amount of weight?

When it's off and the clutch isn't engaged there is no drag on your motor.

Removing it just lessens the value of your car. Don't remove it.

ianc · 03-22-2006, 05:59 PM

Quote:

Why would you remove your A/C?

To lose 65 lbs. of ugly fat and make maintenance MUCH easier?

It depends on the climate you live in. If I lived in AZ, I'd probably think twice about it, but Chris and I live in Marin county where it's not needed about 99% of the time.

As for value reduced, again that would probably depend on where you live. Around here, I would say it would have effect at all.

ianc

cbeers · 03-29-2006, 07:37 PM

Quote:

Why would you remove your A/C? How much performance do you really think you will gain by removing its small amount of weight?

It was really driven by the fact that I have a 964 tail/lid to install and would have to give up the A/C for that.

For the record, my A/C is good, hence the hesitation to take it out. Otherwise it would have long been tossed.

-Chris

ianc · 03-29-2006, 08:32 PM

Lemme know if you want help Chris; it would be fun to trade drives! Maybe when the weather looks up a little...

ianc