Anyone dropping in a Griffith AC system prior to the summer
 

Curious to those who are going to be dropping in a new or updated AC system to their existing car-either for upgrades or as in my case--the PO removed it to save weight...if so, what brand and where are they on their project? any feedback or "if I had to do it over again stories" are welcome. Thanks in advance

Hi 69Porsche- See my link attached (upgrades to the existing system) I highly recommend the complete Griffith's Package. I will be upgrading to their Barrier Hoses in the future... http://forums.pelicanparts.com/porsche-911-technical-forum/930647-1986-c-repair-overview.html

In doing two cars right now.

Actually, I’m doing my 83 black/black SC coupe powered by a 3.6. Full Griffiths system with all the upgrades. I’m just about ready to run the lines and button everything up.

Got snagged by some missing brackets for the compressor. But all those bits will be here this week.

My 72 had dealer air, but again, during a motor swap, some bits got left off. This car is getting some minor upgrades but nothing like the other car.

Looking forward to some cool drives this year.

In 1997 when I first talked to Charlie he sold me a Sanden compressor and low pressure side barrier hose.

It worked flawlessly. I was in Houston, though, so as flawless as it was I still lived in Houston.

Had I known then what I know now, I would have bought a Griffiths package.

It would have pinched but AC would have never been an issue again.

You are talking vent temps in the 50's vs vent temps much lower without issue. In South Carolina, that is huge. I don't know how low his system can deliver but I know it's a very effective kit.

Great article and very articulate! Glad to see some photos with what you were dealing with, always help with the visuals! Many Thanks!

On your 83, how long have you been working the full Griffiths AC system? I sent Griffiths an email if they sell a complete package, because I would rather spend few $$ to get it right than mix match old with new stuff and than end up putting more$$, effort and losing time with the car.

Did our '82 SC Targa with the full Griffiths package last year. I'm in Kansas City, which can get really warm throughout the summer, (NOT like Houston though) especially with the humidity. It was a HUGE difference. Can't speak highly enough of their products and awesome customer support. I would shy away from the 'others' who make outlandish claims though.

I’ve probably put 8 or 10 hours in so far.

Keep in mind, my car has been modified a lot, so I’ve had some extra work to do, and I’ve been cleaning up some wiring, and some modifications I’d like to do differently.

Certainly, it’s easier if you’ve done it before, but I’d bet if you committed 2 long days, you could probably get it all done...certainly if you had 2 weekends with some free time, it would be plenty.

Nothing terribly difficult to the process, the instructions Charlie provides are top-notch.

PM sent

I just removed system from 80sc,

My black 82 coupe came with a Griffiths system when I bought it 4 years ago, and it makes the car so much more usable and enjoyable in the summer, including for defogging in rainy conditions. I'm "only" in New England but it can get pretty hot and sticky up her, too. John in CT.

Hi Gordon- Thanks for the kind words on the write-up! As others have stated, Charlie at Griffiths is unbelievably knowledgeable and his customer support and products are top notch!

Just to clarify my original post, the ‘others’ I was referring to are the other mfgrs of AC systems for our cars NOT Griffiths. Hope this helps.

Major Companies for 911 Systems
(Alphabetical Order)

Classic Retrofit Welcome to Classic Retrofit
Griffiths https://griffiths.com/
RennAire RennAire Porsche 911 Air Conditioning Products
RetroAir Porsche, Ferrari, Mercedes A/C Kits | RetroAir Inc.

I've used parts from Griffiths, RetroAir and RennAire for two different cars and by far Griffths has the most complete kits with the best technical support of the companies I've used.

Classic Retrofit does a new system with an electrical compressor that appears much more compact but you may need to upgrade your electrical system. This system was not available when I did my AC upgrades.

I would search Pelican Parts on all of these companies, you will find hours of reading material, and then make a decision on which to use.

Just about finished with mine from Griff. Great instructions and complete kit. Very well done replacement pieces. A neighbor's garage lift was a huge help. Last steps are hoses and charging. I replaced the entire system. Highly recommend calling Griif before starting out.

I just ripped out my fully operational Griffiths system out of my 81 if anyone is in need.

Thanks for the clarification

No longer needed, dropping weight to make it lighter?...

I put in a griffiths system in 2011. Still blows cold.

Thanks -I plan on calling him this week, there is a lot of info I need to ensure it's done right and get his guidance.