Recommended after-market A/C compressor?
Thread Starter
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 2,713
Likes: 31
From: Shreveport LA
LA Events Coordinator
Recommended after-market A/C compressor?
What is the best or recommended after-market A/C compressor for the Vette? The OEM (A6) compressor I have on her now is a real drain on the engine. Whenever I turn it on, the engine bogs down for a second before the cellinoid kicks in. My MPG goes from 12-14 in town down to 8 and it runs hotter than normal. I know it's late in the summer, but I can always have it ready for next summer.
As usual, the A/C fan on my Vette is a lot to be desired...but that's going to be addressed later. 
So which compressor is recommended?
As usual, the A/C fan on my Vette is a lot to be desired...but that's going to be addressed later. So which compressor is recommended?
Team Owner
Joined: Jul 1999
Posts: 65,492
Likes: 230
From: Orange Park Florida
Back when I bought my '72 with the old A6 compressor, I changed over to a 88-91 vette serpentine drive, and of course the compressor.....
it works well.....I also upgraded to a C4 blower for more airflow....
it works well.....I also upgraded to a C4 blower for more airflow....
Le Mans Master
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 9,272
Likes: 17
http://www.ecklerscorvette.com/corve...1963-1976.html
the simplest and imho the best is this one , stick with R12 also if possible
the simplest and imho the best is this one , stick with R12 also if possible
Burning Brakes
Joined: Dec 2010
Posts: 945
Likes: 10
From: Winston Salem NC
Pro6ten compressor from Old Air Products. Lighter than A6. They have a polished version too that looks great. This is an old photo. The valve covers have since been redone.
While you are at it, clean the condenser. It probably has leaves clogging it. Pull and replace the fan motor. The C4 squirell cage flows more air but you will need a 3/4" spacer. Some guys have made them from wood some from plastic. These two mods will give you more air flow to go with your new compressor. I also switched to the VIR Eliminator.
If you do switch to R-134 you should also get a parallel flow condenser. Get the biggest one that will fit.
While you are at it, clean the condenser. It probably has leaves clogging it. Pull and replace the fan motor. The C4 squirell cage flows more air but you will need a 3/4" spacer. Some guys have made them from wood some from plastic. These two mods will give you more air flow to go with your new compressor. I also switched to the VIR Eliminator.
If you do switch to R-134 you should also get a parallel flow condenser. Get the biggest one that will fit.
Last edited by jcloving; Aug 13, 2012 at 09:52 AM.
