Factory AC Install - Need FAM Pages

[demian5]

Hi - I recently purchased and almost complete factory AC system for my non-AC truck (luckily my truck already has an AC dash in it for some reason).

I'd like to see what I am missing and up against as far as what goes where.

Can someone post scans of the factory assembly manual pages for the cab and small block ac components?

I am sure this will help many many others.

[bill3rail]

Any pictures of what you bought? That may help until someone can locate and scan manual pages.

You said "Almost Complete" what do you know is missing?

Bill

[demian5]

Here is what I got. From looking, I need:
Condenser
AC Lines/hoses
Fresh air flapper
Small block compressor brackets
Control panel

I would really like images from the assembly manual to see how the under dash part installs. I know it uses the passenger side fresh air vent, but I don't see how from what I have?

[skinnan]

If I'm not mistaken, the firewall holes are different as well....unless someone has figured that out

[demian5]

Originally Posted by skinnan

If I'm not mistaken, the firewall holes are different as well....unless someone has figured that out

Yes I know I have to weld up and cut the opening in a different spot.

So nobody owns an assembly manual they can snap some pics of and post?

[slosteve]

Are you doing this because you want a factory correct restoration or because you want a good system?

Steve

[demian5]

Because the price is right and I can do the work.

[slosteve]

The reason that I asked is that I did this in my truck many years ago. It was one of the most difficult projects I have done on it and the results have not been 'acceptable'. I have had so much disappointment with it that I've considered yanking it all and installing a Vintage Air system. I see that you have a stock type compressor which may be better for the system. I don't know and don't claim to be an A/C tech by any means. I started out with a Sanden compressor on mine and have lunched a few. I think the biggest problem was converting the system to 134. They were made for R-12 and apparently work much better with it. I've done a number of changes to the system over the years, including replacing my carbureted V8 with a '94 Vette LT1 engine and using the compressor for that engine. Also, since that setup doesn't have a mechanical fan I use 2 Impala electric fans. After a couple years I recently lunched that one too. When I replaced it I decided to try a newer condenser made for 134 which are supposed to be more efficient. So far it seems to be better.
The main problem I've discovered is that the 134 needs higher pressure to do the same job that R-12 did. If your system isn't spot on and the pressure gets too high - goodbye compressor. I have installed a few aftermarket systems in my other projects and they are the best. They are designed & built with newer and up to date technology.

Steve

[leddzepp]

Originally Posted by slosteve

I think the biggest problem was converting the system to 134. They were made for R-12 and apparently work much better with it.

Ding ding. Been there, done that. Run r-12 in your factory system and you will enjoy ice cold air idling in 100 degree heat all day long.

[demian5]

So NOBODY owns an assembly manual to help with my original question?

[slosteve]

Originally Posted by demian5

I know it uses the passenger side fresh air vent, but I don't see how from what I have?

The only thing you do there is to install a vacuum diaphragm (door open with vacuum applied). If you didn't get a bracket you may have to fab one.

[slosteve]

Originally Posted by demian5

I would really like images from the assembly manual to see how the under dash part installs.

I have a service manual and it has lots of usable images;

Image.PDF

[slosteve]

I tried it in a different format;

[demian5]

Originally Posted by slosteve

The only thing you do there is to install a vacuum diaphragm (door open with vacuum applied). If you didn't get a bracket you may have to fab one.

Attachment 1678519

I have this with the bracket. And a door. However, it looks like it would just attach to my existing door, unless that one is the one for the fresh/recirc vent in the cowl.

[Burbor]

I installed (most of) a factory A/C system in my Burb. I didn't bother with the recirc parts as it isn't really needed in my area, fresh air A/C is cool enough most times.

I'm not sure if these links still work but there are downloads for several manuals here: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=558016

The one labelled "ST_133_70_1970_Chevrolet_Chassis_Service_Manual_10_to_60_Truck" looks to have most of what you want, in the A/C section.

If those links are broken let me know and I could send you a link to download the A/C section from that.

The fresh air/recirc system is both the flapper in the cowl, and the actuator for the passenger side floor vent. So if you don't want recirc, then don't bother installing that stuff. You'd need the factory slider controls, or at least the vacuum switch on it to make it work anyway. FYI, the vacuum system also operates the heater core line shutoff valve. I just put a manual valve in there for now.

[leddzepp]

If you don't use recirc (cab flapper open) your air volume coming out at the vents will be dramatically reduced. You need it for the ac system to function properly.

[Burbor]

Originally Posted by leddzepp

If you don't use recirc (cab flapper open) your air volume coming out at the vents will be dramatically reduced. You need it for the ac system to function properly.

Perhaps I have a some kind of high volume fan, if such a thing exists. I call the high fan setting in my truck "tornado mode". It pushes so much air that it seems unnecessary. Yes, the floor vents are closed.

The only way I could see that it would reduce air flow with the floor vent shut, is if the cowl flapper was also shut. I didn't install that either, so therefore no restriction in air flow.

[leddzepp]

Open your cab vent and you will feel the difference...

[Burbor]

It already pushes plenty of air, the floor vent doesn't need to be open. No dramatic reduction of airflow. Honestly, it blows! (opening the door for jokes).

[leddzepp]

Are you scared of opening it for some reason? There IS a dramatic difference, whether you believe me or not.

My post was intended for the OP, honestly I don't care if you do or don't.

[Burbor]

My post was also for the OP.
I tried it this morning just to humor you. Tested on high fan and one click slower. There is NO dramatic difference, floor vent open or closed. No noticeable change in air flow. There is however a big change in fan noise, it is much louder with the floor vent open.

Again, the only way I can see there would be a big difference in airflow, is if the cowl flapper was closed and therefore there is nowhere else for the fan to draw air except for the floor vent. I don't have the cowl flapper.

Back at you, you can choose to believe me or not, I'm not posting any more about fan flow versus floor vent position.

[snipescastle2]

I can send you pics from my assembly manual but I need an email address
to send them as it would take forever to get them off my phone! Send me a PM and I'll send you them.
Ben