I'm working on getting all my components together to install factory A/C into my 69' Coupe. Several things I'm upgrading from OEM are the compressor and condenser-
I've already got the compressor sorted out but I'm having a helluva time getting accurate information on parallel flow condensers.
It seems that every vendor that sells them lists their specs just a little bit differently and I can't get a straight answer on actual core size and thickness (specifically).

When they advertise the core size, most go with the A, B and C dimensions but I am baffled why the 'B' dimension appears to include the side tanks (or tubes)? For most other radiators/condensers the core size is the actual finned area and does not include the side tanks- Very frustrating.
So I've been taking their advertised 'B' dimension and subtracting 2" for the actual core width, does this sound about right?

Also, can anyone tell me if they actually make different core thicknesses (single row core, not multi row)? Some places advertise 18mm (about .71) while others advertise 7/8" (.875) thick cores while others claim 1" or wider. Most also don't list the fins per inch of these cores- Obviously, more is desirable than less. Is there a standard?
For my application, I would like to find the largest/thickest unit to fit my application comfortably.

The OEM condenser has an actual core size of 16 x 26 and I could fit something with a core of 16 x 27 or 28 fairly easily. My biggest question is regarding the thickness and fins per inch as these values play a big part in the overall surface area.

Perhaps others have run into this previously and can give me their advice? Perhaps someone works in the industry and can shed a little light?
Any advice would me most appreciated!
Elm

 

Here is were I bought my condenser. I used the stock mounting brackets for my 73. Part Number: 44-1425
I bought the kit here as well.

Here is my install page

 

Redwingvette,
I've followed your link and that is where I got the idea for mine
I have an evaporator from an 82' and a Sanden 709 Compressor-
You wouldn't happen to know (or can easily measure) the thickness of your core would you?
I'm looking at a similar condenser but want to get one a little larger so it doesn't restrict the flow (area) to the radiator itself. The 44-1425 is just a tad small for my application- I know they sell a 44-1527 (15 x 27) and 44-1625 (16 x 25) but other vendors sell other sizes as well. The main sticking point for me is the core thickness. Are they all pretty much the same or does one vendor have an advantage over another?
Thanks!
Elm

 

Mine is just under 7/8 in thick. According to the web site:
Condenser selection
A bigger condenser is not necessarily better. Condensers are the most critical part of the a/c system. We do not list them if they are not large enough for the system. If you would like a larger condenser, it will not hurt the system, just be sure you have enough room for one in your vehicle. If you have a pre-1945 vehicle you may have to use the vertical Street rod condenser.

I am not sure what you mean by "restricting flow", I have no issues with overheating but I do have dual electric fans on a Dewitt radiator. Most of the time i am only running one fan.

 

Thank you for the measurement!
As far as "restricting", I don't want the condenser to interfere with the flow going to the actual radiator-
Example: If the core of my radiator is 16" x 27.5", I would prefer a condenser with a core of that same size (not including the end tanks) as to not restrict any airflow getting to the entire 16" x 27.5" radiator core area. My engine needs to stay cool before I get to

I know I'm probably splitting hairs but it's the engineer in me
Since I have the time, I'd like to get the size just right for my piece of mind.
Thank you again!
Elm