A/C SYSTEM what's it worth?

[paulhagedorn]

I have the opportunity to get an A/C system for my 914, including the vents, and everything to get it running. How much of a pain and what is involved in getting it to work on my 914 2.0l 1973. Is it worth it? Will it cause my engine to have a shortened life?

Also, which A/C system is the better, the VPC or DPD

by the way, I live in Memphis, TN where it gets very hot in the summer!
Any help would be appreciated
Paul

[This message has been edited by paulhagedorn (edited 04-08-99).]

[This message has been edited by paulhagedorn (edited 04-08-99).]

[Patrick]

Putting A/C on a 914 is one of those "touchy" subjects like converting to carbs. Some people despise it, others love it.

As for what the system is worth, this all depends on who is buying and who is selling. There doesn't seem to be a huge market for A/C systems from what I have seen. AA has a huge stockpile of systems that they have pulled from cars in their boneyard but they only sell a handful a year as there are not that many people willing to fork over the $ and take on the installation. I have found that the best deals can be had from people that think A/C is not meant for the 914. It is these people that think the components aren't worth much as they would never think of using them themselves.

As for the DPD vs. VPC, I have a preference for the DPD. The main advantage of the DPD is that it allows more room in the passenger side footwell. The blower fan in the evaporator sits in the center above the console. The VPC's is off to the right in the footwell.

Make sure you get ALL of the parts to the system. Don't just get the evaporator and condensor. You also need the compressor bracket and the crank pulley. This pulley is usually the hardest piece to find as it is usually left on engines when A/C is removed. Oh, and remember to get the lines as well. You should have new ones made but the old ones are a good guide to follow for length, etc.

The installation, overall is not fun. You'll have to drill A LOT of holes in your pride and joy to run the lines.

As for whether it will shorten the life of your engine overall, I really couldn't say. I can tell you that the new rotary compressors are a lot less strain on the engine than the old Yorks.