I am looking at AC for the 67 Chevelle project. I know a number of you have added AC to you cars, and looking for the pros and cons you experienced with the setups you used. They both seem pretty similar, but I am guessing there are some subtle differences that make them easier or a nicer setup.
Thank you in advance for your feedback.
jim larson said
Jun 25, 2023
Do some company’s take old original systems, recondition them and convert to r134. Or are you talking about aftermarket systems with the big box that installs in place of the heater box And uses the controls and dash of an AC car? Or just an under dash set up like Stan put in. Is your 67 originally an AC car? I am playing with the idea of adding AC to the 66 convert I bought a few years ago. I would think cost may determine the option someone takes.
-- Edited by jim larson on Sunday 25th of June 2023 12:48:31 PM
69SSConv said
Jun 25, 2023
It is not an AC car, so would be looking to add the "under dash setup"
more ambition than brains said
Jun 25, 2023
Check with Dealer Automotive services.
Quality people.
I bought a vintage air system for the Blue Elcamino.
When I researched Vintage Air they show options for with factory air or without.
You don't have to end up with a big box in the center.
Ron is still playing with install, Blue Big Block Elky had Factory Air, so i ordered the appropriate unit.
So far so good.
White small block Elcamino had factory air also.
Ron converted to R-134 I already had a receiver drier for 134, in stock.
After that all new hoses, fittings including Schrader valves.
Stock, original compressor was functional.
Worked when charged.
karl
Derek69SS said
Jun 26, 2023
Vintage Air is a nice system for the 68-69 Chevelles.
I don't have any experience with any others though.
Larry Lucast said
Jun 26, 2023
I have used them on two cars, and they were straightforward to install. I never had a problem.
Chris R said
Jul 10, 2023
Vintage Air gives you the ability to cut the proper holes in a non air dash to install original or repro dash vents. Thats the system I plan on using on both my 66 and 67 and will just cut the holes for the outside vents to my stock non-ac dash. Otherwise, Restomod air looks like they are another company the high end builders are using in thier builds.
SShink2 said
Jul 25, 2023
I just finished an install of the Classic Auto Air system in the Malibu. Second CAA system I've installed, and it works great.
Benefits over VA that I've found:
-The CAA evap box under the dash does not require the glove box to be cut and shortened to make room
-The CAA system has pre-crimped hoses, so no additional work needed when installing
Otherwise, both brands are the same price, use Sanden compressors, and probably perform the same.
more ambition than brains said
Jul 26, 2023
Great to have choices of quality units.
Karl
Jon H said
Jul 27, 2023
I can only add that I have Vintage Air and for two years it has been flawless.
I am looking at AC for the 67 Chevelle project. I know a number of you have added AC to you cars, and looking for the pros and cons you experienced with the setups you used. They both seem pretty similar, but I am guessing there are some subtle differences that make them easier or a nicer setup.
Thank you in advance for your feedback.
Do some company’s take old original systems, recondition them and convert to r134. Or are you talking about aftermarket systems with the big box that installs in place of the heater box And uses the controls and dash of an AC car? Or just an under dash set up like Stan put in. Is your 67 originally an AC car? I am playing with the idea of adding AC to the 66 convert I bought a few years ago. I would think cost may determine the option someone takes.
-- Edited by jim larson on Sunday 25th of June 2023 12:48:31 PM
It is not an AC car, so would be looking to add the "under dash setup"
Check with Dealer Automotive services.
Quality people.
I bought a vintage air system for the Blue Elcamino.
When I researched Vintage Air they show options for with factory air or without.
You don't have to end up with a big box in the center.
Ron is still playing with install, Blue Big Block Elky had Factory Air, so i ordered the appropriate unit.
So far so good.
White small block Elcamino had factory air also.
Ron converted to R-134 I already had a receiver drier for 134, in stock.
After that all new hoses, fittings including Schrader valves.
Stock, original compressor was functional.
Worked when charged.
karl
I don't have any experience with any others though.
Vintage Air gives you the ability to cut the proper holes in a non air dash to install original or repro dash vents. Thats the system I plan on using on both my 66 and 67 and will just cut the holes for the outside vents to my stock non-ac dash. Otherwise, Restomod air looks like they are another company the high end builders are using in thier builds.
I just finished an install of the Classic Auto Air system in the Malibu. Second CAA system I've installed, and it works great.
Benefits over VA that I've found:
-The CAA evap box under the dash does not require the glove box to be cut and shortened to make room
-The CAA system has pre-crimped hoses, so no additional work needed when installing
Otherwise, both brands are the same price, use Sanden compressors, and probably perform the same.
Great to have choices of quality units.
Karl