Need Air
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Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 89
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From: ? CA
Need Air
I'm considering buying an early 70's Corvette but it came from the factory with no air. What's the cheapest way to put air in it. I'm thinking maybe getting the ac system from a salvage yard. About how much would it cost. Any ideas? Thanks. 
Instructor
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 114
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From: Memphis TN
I would not bother with the stock A/C unless you are concerned with originality. Check into an aftermarket system from some place like vintageair. Their total systems are more up to date and efficient than the 40 year old systems that came in the car. Also, look at a vacuum hose and wiring schematic for the stock A/C system and you will change your mind about a stock system.
Thread Starter
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Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 89
Likes: 0
From: ? CA
I would not bother with the stock A/C unless you are concerned with originality. Check into an aftermarket system from some place like vintageair. Their total systems are more up to date and efficient than the 40 year old systems that came in the car. Also, look at a vacuum hose and wiring schematic for the stock A/C system and you will change your mind about a stock system.
Pro
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 593
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From: Warrenville IL
vintageair and others run about $1,000 - $1,300 for the system. Not sure if that includes or requires a new drivers side lower dash pad (upto $350 new) or center ducts (upto $175 new).
If you aren't in a hurry or plan to store your car for the winter you might be able to save a some money using the forum, ebay, craigslist or junkyards to accumulate some old part and clean them up.
I'm working on that right now and in the end my system will run about $600-$800 plus interior parts. If you go the 'classic' route convert the system for of R-12 to the new stuff (R-139 I think).
If you aren't in a hurry or plan to store your car for the winter you might be able to save a some money using the forum, ebay, craigslist or junkyards to accumulate some old part and clean them up.
I'm working on that right now and in the end my system will run about $600-$800 plus interior parts. If you go the 'classic' route convert the system for of R-12 to the new stuff (R-139 I think).
Melting Slicks
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 2,231
Likes: 7
From: Fort Pierce Florida
Go with Vintage Air. They have electric servos so no vaccum lines to worry about. You also don't need to use the heater box, so you'll still have that extra room in the back of the engine compartment and you wont' need to change anything on your dash. Not sure what you'll have to do for controls though since the Vintage Air system uses stock controllers that you have to modify slightly.
If you don't want to fool with the factory controls, then you might be able to substitute the evaporater unit that comes with the sure-fit system with the Gen IV Magnum that is the exact same evaperator, but uses Vintage Air's controls (pictured below). You'll just have to tape up a couple extra holes on the evap.
If you don't want to fool with the factory controls, then you might be able to substitute the evaporater unit that comes with the sure-fit system with the Gen IV Magnum that is the exact same evaperator, but uses Vintage Air's controls (pictured below). You'll just have to tape up a couple extra holes on the evap.
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Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 53
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Check out classicAutoAir. I really like their installation. Will be installing one in a 63 SWC, 66 Vert, 65 Tbird, 73 mustang, 69 Camaro. Look at their perfect fit system for your car. I am a dealer and can get it for you at 10% below list. Ron
Team Owner
Joined: Jun 2000
Posts: 38,923
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From: Southbound
Cruise-In II Veteran
FWIW: I'm installing factory air in my '68. I have put it together for less than half the cost of the aftermarket systems including the cost of a hard-to-find, one-year-only AC console trim plate.
If you want factory air, it's do-able.
If you want factory air, it's do-able.
