installing AC on a '74 BB?
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 429
Likes: 24
From: Charlotte NC
installing AC on a '74 BB?
Anyone had any experience with doing an AC install on a C3? I've heard it's not worth the effort by those who have done it but I'd like to at least give it a gander for myself before dismissing the idea. Any previous threads on it? Thanks
Racer
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 413
Likes: 22
From: Justin TX
I replaced the OEM system with a Vintage Air System in my 69. Lot of people on the forum have used Vintage or other aftermarket. I really like the Vintage, they make systems for factory and non factory ac C3s. The dampers are servo controlled and do away with all the vacuum for the HVAC. I would go with the complete system for around $1200-$1500. I installed mine in 2008 and it still works great. They have great support, a 5 year warranty, and you can do most of the work yourself. You may also want to ad an extra electric cooling fan, which is option.
There are some post, just search Vintage Air.
There are some post, just search Vintage Air.
Last edited by TX-Techman; Sep 6, 2015 at 12:31 AM.
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 429
Likes: 24
From: Charlotte NC
I replaced the OEM system with a Vintage Air System in my 69. Lot of people on the forum have used Vintage or other aftermarket. I really like the Vintage, they make systems for factory and non factory ac C3s. The dampers are servo controlled and do away with all the vacuum for the HVAC. I would go with the complete system for around $1200-$1500. I installed mine in 2008 and it still works great. They have great support, a 5 year warranty, and you can do most of the work yourself. You may also want to ad an extra electric cooling fan, which is option.
There are some post, just search Vintage Air.
There are some post, just search Vintage Air.
Ok I found the web site. Thanks!
Last edited by CiCiC3; Sep 6, 2015 at 12:17 PM. Reason: no reason
Instructor
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 200
Likes: 87
From: College Station Texas
Not a big block install, but here is an article with lots of photos from Super Chevy when they did a Vintage Air Install:
http://www.superchevy.com/how-to/int...ir-ac-install/
http://www.superchevy.com/how-to/int...ir-ac-install/
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 429
Likes: 24
From: Charlotte NC
Not a big block install, but here is an article with lots of photos from Super Chevy when they did a Vintage Air Install:
http://www.superchevy.com/how-to/int...ir-ac-install/
http://www.superchevy.com/how-to/int...ir-ac-install/
Thanks that will help!
Racer
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 413
Likes: 22
From: Justin TX
I pulled the factory system out of my 69, but V-A has kits for non-air and factory air cars, I am not sure of the difference so may be worth a call to their support to insure you get the correct kit.
You should be able to replace the center bezel and dash pads with the factory vents built in, this is something to consider when choosing the kit as well. My system came with all the ducts that connect to the factory outlets, the center vent inlet had to be modified a bit, you really need that part as well. There were 2 small ducts that connect to the center vent and one each larger ducts for the driver and passenger side vents.
This is some pics of my install, I would think the BB install will be very similar but not certain.
http://s203.photobucket.com/user/TX-...0Air%20Install
Last edited by TX-Techman; Sep 8, 2015 at 11:35 PM.
