C2 Factory A/C Silly Question

[Bruce Boatner]

Probably a silly question, but I'd rather be safe than sorry. The large tube leading to the evaporator on my 1964 coupe is PARTIALLY wrapped with the standard black sticky goop (technical term) only on the middle part of the tube (where the bulb for the expansion valve is). My question is, should the ENTIRE tube be wrapped with the black sticky goop? A picture in the shop manual appears to show the entire tube wrapped, but I cannot tell for sure.

It seems logical to insulate the entire tube so that it does not absorb heat from the engine compartment thereby causing the system to work less efficiently. I'm thinking there may a good reason someone did not wrap the entire tube because it would not be much extra work to do it. I imagine the black sticky goop is not very much fun to remove, so I thought I would check with the a/c experts before plunging blindly ahead. BTW, I have a huge roll of the sticky stuff, so if any other areas would benefit from it I would like to know about those as well.

FYI, after rebuilding my air distribution box with a great kit from Dr. Rebuild, and replacing my compressor (leaked) my factory a/c actually blows cold air now--never thought I would see the day. Hopefully, it will continuing blowing cold air in 90+ degree heat. A/C can never be too cold here in Houston.

Thanks Guys!

[mike geary]

Re: C2 Factory A/C Silly Question

Bruce: I would wrap the evaporator output tube from the point that it exits the box to at least 3" beyond the bulb. That way, the bulb will be getting an accurate reading on the output temp of the evaporator.

By the way, did you check the C60 pages in the AIM. This kind of detail is usually covered by a note or dimensioning.

Regards, Mike

Glad you're blowing in the low 40's. My son lives in Humble so I know what you're alluding to.

[Bruce Boatner]

Re: C2 Factory A/C Silly Question

Mike,

Thanks for your feedback. I do have a copy of the AIM and will check it out. I guess the only purpose of the insulation is to produce an accurate reading for the bulb? (My a/c knowledge is weak at best). Wonder if the system would blow colder if I REMOVED most of the insulation?

Does your son in Humble own a 'vette?

Bruce