Ultimate AC Thread

[ChkbookMechanic]

Originally Posted by Joe Bob

So what's the estimated install and parts for a complete system? Meaning underdash unit, hoses, compressor, etc....

I was able to completely remove and reinstall a new AC system in under a day. It included:

(1) evaporator
(2) condensers
(3) drier
(4) compressor
(5) hoses
(6) a/c temp switch
(7) variable speed fan and switch
(8) center cooling vent

The key thing I found was to run the new hoses as you pull the old hoses out by attaching the new hose to the old hose w/ twine or duct tape. Everything else came out pretty quickly and modifying the evaporator box to install the higher powered fan was not that difficult.


I just read through the instructions a few times until I didn't need to look at them anymore, set up a pop-up tent over my car outside and went to work. A few hours later I had finished it all.

[mikehinton]

Lane:

I've been thinking of doing that project myself. May I ask which system you installed? I have an '87.

Mike

[Joe Bob]

How much did ya spend for parts?

[ChkbookMechanic]

Originally Posted by mikehinton

Lane:

I've been thinking of doing that project myself. May I ask which system you installed? I have an '87.

Mike

I bought the system from RetroAir/Mr. Jaguar (based in Dallas) and it came with everything needed -- except r134a. It works extremely well when the car had all its sound deadening, carpet, etc. As I've begun to strip everything out of the car, slowly turning it into a race car, its effectiveness is not near what it used to be.

[mikehinton]

Thanks. I'm currently leaning toward a Griffith's system with R-134a with added condensers, since I have a dark-colored car, and temps regularly exceed 100 degrees here.

[mthomas58]

Originally Posted by mikehinton

Thanks. I'm currently leaning toward a Griffith's system with R-134a with added condensers, since I have a dark-colored car, and temps regularly exceed 100 degrees here.

Good Choice. You'll be very happy with Charlie's System!

[mikehinton]

Mark:

Do you have that system too? If you're pleased with it, it bodes well for me, as my car is the same color as yours! Not many Granite Green ones around.

Mike

[Joeaksa]

Originally Posted by mikehinton

Mark:

Do you have that system too? If you're pleased with it, it bodes well for me, as my car is the same color as yours! Not many Granite Green ones around.

Mike

Mike,

My car has the same interior as Mark's and you do not see that very often. Outside was the copper colored version that is not seen often either.

Now its silver on the outside and about to be black inside!

Joe

[GH85Carrera]

Originally Posted by mthomas58

Good Choice. You'll be very happy with Charlie's System!

He makes good stuff. His instructions are top notch.

[mikehinton]

Good to hear. Having working AC will increase marital harmony!

[mthomas58]

Originally Posted by mikehinton

Mark:

Do you have that system too? If you're pleased with it, it bodes well for me, as my car is the same color as yours! Not many Granite Green ones around.

Mike

Mike, I do have a Griffiths System. Product quality, installation instructions and and after-the-sale technical support is top notch. Love the Granite Green!

[mikehinton]

I'm going to fill out their questionnaire today. I'll try to post some pictures during the install.

[yogi]

This thread might be a good addition to this list. An AC Evaporator Blower Fan Alternative.

AC Evaporator Blower replacement Idea

[mkc1962]

yogi,

Thanks for the plug. I'm the one that did that, and wrote it. Though of sharing that here as well. anything doesnt make sense to anyone dont hesitate to email or call.

[khamul02]

For some reason I can't edit this post to add this link to the top:

OLD Porsche AC

DIY Air Conditioning for Old Porsches (Combined)

Large center Dash vents:

my dash swap (964 dash in 84 carrera)

Update side vents to larger ones:

The SC ac vent update to Carrera vents (so far)

Parallel Flow Micro-Channel Condensers:

I make Parallel Flow Micro-Channel Condensers for 911's front and rear

Freaky!

[Mitch Leland]

Tom is my hero... I'm book marking this one!

[sundevil64]

khamul02,

Thanks! I found the 1st and 3rd links, but didn't see the 2nd one in my search. That's what I want to do. Since I have a full 86 system in good condition I have everything I need for an update of the center vents. The side vents would be nice, but it looks like a mess. Although the trunk lid pull could be moved to the side kick panel I would think without too much trouble.

For me the motivator is obviously the heat and the idea of having good air flow in TX heat, but more so the savings on the dash! I have a great dash and they are so expensive. Since I have to pull the dash anyway I might as well update the vents and I already have all the tools. ++

Unfotunately I'm sure I will be doing this in the middle of the summer. Ick...