LSH77VETTE

How hard is it to remove and replace the AC receiver/dryer on a 77? It appears that it would be extremely difficult due to the fact that it is tucked in behind the coolant reservoir and in a very hard to reach location. Is it bolted in place or is it just held in place by the coolant lines that are attached?

mds3013

On my non VIR '77 it is strapped to a bracket with a metal band held with a small bolt. It is best reached from the bottom by removing the splash shield behind the tire. I used a cut off 10" Crescent wrench to tighten the fitting that is in the fender well area. I was able to find a one piece that made the alignment easier. Start the fittings with the strap off then secure with the strap and then final tightening. mike...

LSH77VETTE

Thanks for the info. This is extremely helpful. When you say "splash shield", are you referring to the panel on the bottom of the car that is right behind the tire and directly below the accumulator? I see two bolts on one side of this cover, but is that all that holds it in place? Thanks again for your help. Greatly appreciated

mds3013

There are four bolts. Two vertical at the fender flange and two horizontal behind the rocker cover. I forgot to mention the rocker cover must come off to access those two bolts. Use a little refrigerant oil on the new o-rings, the threads on the fittings and the pipe where the female fittings rotate. This greatly reduces the tendency of the components trying to twist and prevents damage to the o-rings. mike...

myoriginal77

And ... Don't pop open the the dryer until you are ready to install and then immediately pull a vacuum on the system, otherwise the dryer will be sucking the moisture out of the ambient air or in the system.

Frank

LSH77VETTE

Thank you Mike !!!! Extremely helpful info. Now I just need to determine the best compressor and dryer to buy in order to convert to R134 and then change everything out. Do you know whether or not the new compressors and dryers come with the new O rings needed, or will I need to buy an O ring kit (and where to buy)? Thanks again for your help and the photo's. I greatly appreciate your help

LSH77VETTE

Thanks for the advice Frank :-)