AC upgrade
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Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 61
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AC upgrade
I have a 1980 vette that I bought from my brother in 1984. The AC is not working. I have had a couple of R4 compressors and other work done over the years. It has worked but never put out very cool air. I had it converted to R134 about 4 years ago. It would only put out 60 degree air. I am about to repair it again. Has anyone ever done any upgrade to the design? My 1998 Grand Prix can put out air in the low 40s which will cool down a car quickly. It was designed for R134 of course but the vette never even worked great on R12.
Race Director
Joined: Sep 1999
Posts: 11,361
Likes: 383
From: Plano TX
You should be able to find plenty in the archives. You should upgrade to a smart-VOV and an adjustable cycling switch. Also make sure all the vacuum doors seal so you are not mixing in hot air. With everything up to snuff a C3 will produce vent temps in the low 40's even on R134a.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 7,720
Likes: 12
From: Chattanooga TN
Originally Posted by zwede
You should be able to find plenty in the archives. You should upgrade to a smart-VOV and an adjustable cycling switch. Also make sure all the vacuum doors seal so you are not mixing in hot air. With everything up to snuff a C3 will produce vent temps in the low 40's even on R134a.
An 80 already has an orfice tube and cycling switch. Be sure your heater valve is closing completely and/or install an auxillary shutoff valve. You may also upgrade to a C4 fan blower.
Racer
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 364
Likes: 3
From: Van Wert Ohio
The tip on the heater valve is probably the best one. I've completely disconnected the heater hoses for years in the summer. It makes a big difference. Next step is ball valves this fall. Right now I'm doing the switch to a Sanden 508 compressor. The street rod guys swear by 'em so I'm looking for less drag, quieter operation and maybe a bit colder.
