C2 A/C system

[Jeremy Hedges]

I am restoring a 66 390 with A/C, just getting the A/C back together and in car. What do I need to look for, or at, or make sure is good before I put the body back on and get everything hooked up. I just don't want to have to get into this after the car is back together. Is there some problem areas that I need to look at? Relay's or valves? Hope to hear from someone with good experience with the original A/C systems.

Thanks

Jeremy Hedges
#31711

[Ken Edmunds]

Re: C2 A/C system

You don't want install any a/c parts until they are tested or restored, esp the evaporator. I restored my 66 390 a/c recently. I sent every part including and nos evaporator and nos expansion valve to Classic Auto Air in Tampa Florida for testing, restoration and calibration. The parts came back perfect and ready to install.

[Jack H.]

Re: C2 A/C system

My input is to open each interconnect fitting, remove and discard the original O-rings and replace them with top drawer, commercial refigeration grade components. AND, open the refigerant fill/monitoring valves, remove and discard the existing Schrader valves and replace them with top of the line commercial refrigeration grade components.

These cars were designed to 'make it' through a 12-month warranty period when R-12 was dirt cheap. With today's $60/lb prices for R-12, you can't tolerate system leaks!

Plus, the 'acid test' for system integrity is to pull a vacuum on the closed system and watch it for 10-20 minutes to see that it holds.... This isn't the same stress as having the system filled with R-12, generating pressure(s) and thermal stress! Aged worn rubber might be able to seal when being 'sucked in' and fail when being 'blow out'....

[Jeremy Hedges]

Re: C2 A/C system

Jack, what is the Schrader valve and where would I go to get good replacements?

Thanks

Jeremy Hedges
#31711

[Allan J. Wicklund]

Re: C2 A/C system

Check out this site:http://www.autoacforum.com/messagevi...AR_MSGDBTABLE=
The calibration of the STV is critical with these older design systems. Make sure you replace the Reciever/Dryer. The shade tree mechanic is quite capable of doing a correct refurbishment if he/she does do diligence first. Do not believe anyone who tells you that R134 will work just fine. You'll be disapointed. It gets very technical at this point but has to do with the given refrigerants ability to absorb and shed heat. R12 wins hands down. Al W.