Air Conditioning

[BigAl]

I am the proud new owner of a 1966 Bird. It looks great - will post a pix later - but it has a lot of things that I can improve. One has to do with the airconditioner.

My mechanic tells me I could repair the system as it is for about $1K but it would make the usual grinding noise of a York compressor and put a load on the engine. For a few hundred more, he would recommend a totally new system in line with today's A/C standards.

I'm not sure what to do. I want to do this right but have little experience. I have been impressed with the replys of this forum to questions and feel that whatever guidance this group could offer me, would be worth listening to and right on target.
On a similar note, when it comes to other issues with my Bird, should I always go to restore exactly as it was or is it acceptable to make modifications with more modern components, as long as the looks stay true to the original Bird.

Thank you for any tips and encouragement you can offer.

[tbird5866]

You may be able to replace the compressor with the newer, smaller one. You would need an adapter to mount it to your engine. Not knowing what your system needs, I would NOT think it would cost $1000. I'll be glad to help you with AC advice (or maybe parts).
Harley in Texas

[Joe Van Datta]

Fordman, is it the nature of these Yorks to be noisey and rough--where would you get the parts to replace it with a late model rotary? The system on my 66 is stock.
Joe

[BigAl]

Harley,

Thank you for responding so quickly to my request. When you talk about "the newer smaller" compressor, are you refering to one that uses the new refrigerant or is this and R12 unit? If not an R12 unit, won't I have to change out all my other components, including hoses? Sorry to sound so ignorant in this area.

I am already grateful to be a member of this group.

Big Al

[tbird5866]

It is not the nature of the York compressors to be noisy. AS for as R134 goes, others have flushed the system and installed R134 and had no problems. I'd certainly replace the dryer. What would you be risking by trying it? I think the new, small compressor is called Sanyo. Available from Cold Air Products in Fort Worth (817 531 2665) as well as other AC places. I know Cold Air has the mounting brackets. I've done it.