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Old Sep 28, 2021 | 09:03 AM
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Default AC Condenser

Hello again!
I have a 1973 coupe mostly original and a small leak in my AC condenser. I finally found a NOS made in US one. This thing is way hidden. Do you guys know if I have to remove the hood? Seems like it.
thanks!

Last edited by Proactive_Solutions; Sep 28, 2021 at 09:07 AM.
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Old Sep 28, 2021 | 10:06 AM
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Wrong sub-forum for a C3, though many of us have had them. You sure you mean condenser, which is at the radiator? Hidden is generally more related to the evaporator.
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Old Sep 28, 2021 | 10:11 AM
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Moved to C3 Tech.
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Old Sep 28, 2021 | 10:35 AM
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Yes condenser sorry for the wrong section. It is right next to radiator and was wondering if I have to remove something to get at it…I am new to repairs and relying on YouTube but cannot find one. Thanks




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Old Sep 28, 2021 | 10:36 AM
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I took the hood off to replace the hoses going to the condenser. Removing the hood should take less than 5min.. Get a stick to hold up the hood when you remove the hood prop and courtesy light. Remember the exact position of the stick, this will duplicate the exact angle to remount the hood. Scribe a fine line around both hinges to index those. Best to have a buddy hold one side of the hood while undoing the hinge bolts. Some guys do it alone with a jig hanging from the ceiling.
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Old Sep 28, 2021 | 10:40 AM
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Thanks! Yeah I figure and I also bought hoses because I only really want to do this once . That sounds good to remember where the hood was.
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Old Sep 28, 2021 | 08:13 PM
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Are you running R-12? If not, you should consider investing in a modern style condenser - you'll get better AC performance.
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Old Sep 29, 2021 | 06:39 AM
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That is something I should know but it’s all been updated to the new stuff about two years ago. I think R34 but not sure. I try to keep the car as original as possible but if I had not purchased the parts it’s probably a good idea to just update it because I feel leaks in the old system will just continue to happen. The compressor has been replaced with a rebuilt one, replacing the hoses and condenser. Not sure what else I should replace while at it?
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Old Sep 29, 2021 | 10:39 AM
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The rebuilt compressor will be the weak link in your ac. Commercially rebuilt compressors don’t address the critical parts. Someone on CF who rebuilds them showed pictures of what need to be done for a reliable rebuild and it really is much more labor than building a new one. Check past posts here on ac compressors. Sorry I don’t have a link.
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Old Sep 29, 2021 | 11:21 AM
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Mechanic who did the compressor did warn me. He said I could either get a rebuilt one or new. I chose rebuilt to keep it original. Possibly a mistake.
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Old Sep 29, 2021 | 07:41 PM
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Since it is really hidden from view, would anyone ever know the difference if you went new?
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Old Sep 29, 2021 | 07:59 PM
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Probably not. It is tough because I already spent a lot of money on NOS made in US parts. In the future I just might chose otherwise.
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Old Sep 30, 2021 | 10:59 AM
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I get it.
When I complete my 73 project, it will appear all original going down the road with the exception of an L-88 style hood and different wheels.
Even the interior will be all original except for the addition of a roll bar.
However, if you were to pop the hood or crawl underneath you will find hardly anything that wasn’t upgraded.
New technology and the improvement throughout the automotive industry has made it possible to enjoy our hot rods, be comfortable and get the thrill of driving a modern day sports car under the classic wrap of a C3 Corvette.
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Old Oct 1, 2021 | 12:02 PM
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Originally Posted by Proactive_Solutions
Probably not. It is tough because I already spent a lot of money on NOS made in US parts. In the future I just might chose otherwise.
here is new r12..get a decal ..new is the way to go..if staying original look..no difference ac delco new and napa professional new…if not caring look..i would go non china sanden in r12 or 134


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