UpDating 1970 AirConditioning
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 417
Likes: 40
From: Swansea IL
UpDating 1970 AirConditioning
My 1970 big block coupe came form the factory with A/C. It is time to get this system working again. All of my components are original to the car. I am thinking that converting the system to 134A is the way to go. Was going to reseal the compressor, and figure out what direction to go with the conversion. Is it a good idea to change to an orifice tube/cycle on-off system? Would like to keep the old compressor and evaporator if possible.
What have all of you done to update your A/C systems and how well did it work?
Bob
What have all of you done to update your A/C systems and how well did it work?
Bob
Race Director
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 13,248
Likes: 7,840
From: Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia
2025 C3 of the Year Finalist - Modified
2024 C3 of the Year Finalist- Modified
2022 C3 of the Year Finalist - Modified
Cruise-In VIII Veteran
I'm thinking a proper upgrade with 134 would be better with a Sanden compressor and a parallel flow condenser. And you really should be looking at a new dryer and orifice tube.
Can be done with your original compressor. With a oil change of course. But the Sanden is far more efficient.
Can be done with your original compressor. With a oil change of course. But the Sanden is far more efficient.
Instructor
Joined: Feb 2019
Posts: 201
Likes: 48
From: Detroit
Subscribing. I’m also upgrading to R134.
However, gutting the system. New 508 Sanden compressor, which means new compressor bracket. Chose the Billet Specialties bracket 10621. Pricey, but the only decent looking one for BBC. Only thing left is the evaporator. I’m going with the cycling system. Deluxe POA valve kit from Oldairproducts.
My PITA is getting this old POA off the evaporator. Let me know how that goes for you.
However, gutting the system. New 508 Sanden compressor, which means new compressor bracket. Chose the Billet Specialties bracket 10621. Pricey, but the only decent looking one for BBC. Only thing left is the evaporator. I’m going with the cycling system. Deluxe POA valve kit from Oldairproducts.
My PITA is getting this old POA off the evaporator. Let me know how that goes for you.
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 417
Likes: 40
From: Swansea IL
The POA valve is indeed a PIA to remove. I am in the position that I have the engine out of the car so that does make it easier. It takes some big wrenches to remove the valve. You need a 1 1/4 for the evaporator side of the connection. Mine finally broke loose and I did not bend the line from the evaporator.
Now, I need to find a rebuild service for the valve. No use putting all this effort, parts, money into a system with an old POA valve. The services that historically rebuilt the valves no longer do it, so now I need to find another source for that service.
Now, I need to find a rebuild service for the valve. No use putting all this effort, parts, money into a system with an old POA valve. The services that historically rebuilt the valves no longer do it, so now I need to find another source for that service.
