1989 AC System
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jul 2017
Posts: 750
Likes: 86
From: St Petersburg
1989 AC System
Any suggestions on what ac system to install in my car. It has major issues blows semi cool air and not great air flow. In Florida in summer 95 to 100 degrees months the car is just not drive-able.
I have my suspicions that even when new the ac in these things was never great in hot weather states, but I could be wrong.
Any thoughts?.
I have my suspicions that even when new the ac in these things was never great in hot weather states, but I could be wrong.
Any thoughts?.
Drifting
Joined: Feb 2016
Posts: 1,384
Likes: 339
From: Simi Valley CA
I got the factory ac working on my 89 convertible using R12. It worked great where I could drive it in 90-100 degree So Cal heat with the top down and ac on. It gave enough cold air that it was enjoyable to drive. At a stop light it felt great. People will argue that the 134 conversation works just as well. I disagree. R12 has lower cooling temps. I still find people selling 12 oz cans for $20 in the classified ads all the time.
Drifting
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 1,354
Likes: 325
From: San Antonio Tx
I have an 86 but I converted to the 89 AC system because I like the later Denso compressor. I found that with R134a it is capable of reaching well below freezing, which turns the evaporator to a block of ice and stop air flow, if the cycle switch is not working correctly. If the system is properly evacuated, has the proper refrigerant oil, correct amout of refrigerant and cycle switch adjusted properly, it is very capable of cooling your Corvette. We had many 100 degree days in San Antonio last summer and mine worked fine.
Half of my center vents were blocked with plastic on the back side. I assume all early cars were the same. To increase air flow you can remove the center vents and dremel out the plastic to open them up. It made a big difference on my car.
Half of my center vents were blocked with plastic on the back side. I assume all early cars were the same. To increase air flow you can remove the center vents and dremel out the plastic to open them up. It made a big difference on my car.
Racer
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 313
Likes: 8
From: Charleston Illinois
My '89 Coupe is still running on R-12 freon and blows 40° out of the dash vents. If you're car was mine, I would stay with R-12 for the simple fact of how good it works. The freon is easily available online. There are plenty of videos on how to evacuate and recharge the system as well as diagnostics to pinpoint any issues.
