Griffiths rear fender condenser or front??

[matthewb0051]

So I had an a/c line cut on the rear deck lid which will now require a replacement. I was thinking while I'm in there I may put in a new condenser in the front or try the Griffiths rear fender condenser set up.

Has anyone tried the Griffiths rear wheel well condenser? Results? Cost?

Or thoughts on front condenser?

Thanks for positive, constructive comments in advance.

Matthew

[tirwin]

Pros for just the front condenser:
- improved efficiency
- easy to swap
- nothing else to install

Cons for just replacing the front condenser:
- Might not be enough condensing capacity (depends on your climate and your car, etc)
- If you need more capacity you will have to more work to do (new hoses, recharge, etc)

Pros for the rear wheel well condenser:
- Increases condensing capacity

Cons for the rear wheel condenser:
- new hoses needed + electrical work (fans and relay)

"While You're In There" considerations:
- new receiver/drier
- high/low pressure switch
- barrier hoses
- more evaporator capacity

I have the Dual Keuhl rear wheel well condensers because my car is all black and I live in Atlanta. I can give you a better answer soon. Long story short, I was charging the system when my decklid condenser blew a pinhole leak. But while it was charging I had a smile on my face from ear to ear. It was blowing REALLY cold A/C.

Have you already converted to R134a? I'm assuming the existing A/C is not satisfactory or you wouldn't be asking, but how bad is it?

Give Charlie a call too for his advice on doing one vs the other or both.

[matthewb0051]

Existing A/C is good. I already upgraded to the hurricane blower and have barrier hoses. Evap and deck lid condensers are new (8 yrs). The only issue is on really hot days the a/c is not quite enough but that could also be down to un-tinted windows as well.

The cut hose caused a total evacuation of 134, so right now I have no A/C. Just happened today.

[fintstone]

If you do not already have a front condenser, do the 2 in the left rear wheel well (dual Keuhl) setup so you will not have to butcher the front pan. It will give you the colder temps you are looking for without cutting the sheet metal..

[DaddyGlenn]

Many years ago, maybe 10, I replace the entire system on my 78sc with Griffiths set up. My car did not have a front condenser so I went with dual rear fender condensers. I also kept the stock rear deck lid condenser (which will be replaced during my current rebuild).

Anyway, to the point.... I lived in Daytona Beach then and I consistently got vent temps in the upper 30's to lower 40's even on the hottest August afternoons. I'm sure with some additional tweaking, I could have gotten better.

I would suggest calling Griffiths and have a conversation about your set up and needs. He'll give you good advice.