The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network - View Single Post - Converting non-a/c cab to a/c

**1971Stepside** · 03-18-2002, 05:16 PM

Zumo, I did this on my 71. I found a 72 GMC that had factory air/tilt that I was able to buy for $250. (The rest of the truck was shot) It took some time, but I was able to make the switch. I did not have to modify anything on the firewall of my truck. It changes your heater core all the duct work, vacuum system, and even the glove box! For the dash I simply took a saw and cut the holes for the vents. That was probably one of the easier things to do (I did not remove the dash to do this)

The most difficult piece I had was finding compressor brackets for my small block. The truck I robbed the AC from had a big block and the brackets would not work.

All in all I hooked it all up had it charged and it worked great!

Of course the truck is now down to the frame for a re-do.

Good luck.

My 2 cents is to convert because of the original "look" of it.

------------------
2001 GMC 2500HD Crew Cab Duramax, Allison, 4WD, Love it

1971 Chevrolet 1/2 ton 2WD Short/Step Side. In process of frame off restoration

03-18-2002, 05:16 PM	#4
1971Stepside Almost Satisfied Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Springfield, MO Posts: 2,932	Zumo, I did this on my 71. I found a 72 GMC that had factory air/tilt that I was able to buy for $250. (The rest of the truck was shot) It took some time, but I was able to make the switch. I did not have to modify anything on the firewall of my truck. It changes your heater core all the duct work, vacuum system, and even the glove box! For the dash I simply took a saw and cut the holes for the vents. That was probably one of the easier things to do (I did not remove the dash to do this) The most difficult piece I had was finding compressor brackets for my small block. The truck I robbed the AC from had a big block and the brackets would not work. All in all I hooked it all up had it charged and it worked great! Of course the truck is now down to the frame for a re-do. Good luck. My 2 cents is to convert because of the original "look" of it. ------------------ 2001 GMC 2500HD Crew Cab Duramax, Allison, 4WD, Love it 1971 Chevrolet 1/2 ton 2WD Short/Step Side. In process of frame off restoration __________________ 1971 C10 Stepside. LSx 6.0 with BTR Stage IV, Speed Engineering Headers, 4L80e transmission w/3200 Circle-D Stall. 3.73. Posi. Purchased this truck when I was 17. I started the rebuild (or take apart) in 1993. I have drug it around all over the country in pieces. Finally back on the road in 2021. "I can't complain, but sometimes I still do. Life's been good to me so far."