Install A/C on a classic car?

A

algtrader

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Dear forum,

I tried googling variations of "A/C classic cars" in the hope of finding out if it was common practice to install an A/C in a classic car.

What came up are the companies that manufacture air conditioners for classic cars, like Vintage Air, etc. but the links did not really say if it was a good idea to install an A/C in a classic car.

I have a '66 Lemans and although it came with air conditioning, the A/C was not operational. The compressor was in the engine compartment but no fan belt installed and the ducting was in the trunk of the car.

Do I try to reuse the original parts I have? (the ones which use the R12 refrigerant?) Or do I install a system which uses the modern freon?

I heard to install the A/C you need to disassemble the front side panels? Is this true? I was planning to paint the car so if this is the case I will prioritize to install the A/C first and then do the painting after.

Which A/C system should I get for my 66 Lemans? And where can I get it?

Thank you

Al G
 
I recently updated my 70 Lemans that had original factory air but the compressor was shot. I used Classic Auto Air for the equipment. The install required removing the radiator and dash. No body panels were removed. This could be different with your year but Classic Auto Air should be able to guide you. By changing out the old equipment you'll end up with a more efficient system and less pull on the engine.
 
cmoore1953 said:
I recently updated my 70 Lemans that had original factory air but the compressor was shot. I used Classic Auto Air for the equipment. The install required removing the radiator and dash. No body panels were removed. This could be different with your year but Classic Auto Air should be able to guide you. By changing out the old equipment you'll end up with a more efficient system and less pull on the engine.
Click to expand...

Hi there! Thanks for the reply.

Did you have them convert your old equipment or did you buy a new one? If you don't mind, how much did you spend on parts and labor?

Al
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I initially intended to only change the compressor but the more I read about the possibility of having a contaminated system and ruining a new compressor with debris from the old that might still be in the system I replaced everything. I spent a couple of grand by the time I replaced the entire system which included controls, etc.
 
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