Air Conditioning for HJ60

[Navcruiser]

This is my first post. I own a HJ60 with a 2H engine. My cruiser is 24 volt. How can I add an airconditioner and a radio. In other words, can 12 volt accessories be used or is there another better way to do this?

[HJ61TurboDiesel]

First you get a 12V powersupply for the 12V stuff. It converts the 24V to 12V. Regular stuff and available at many stores and not too expensive. Some even alows for connecting a 12V battery so you can charge this as well.

Radio connects to this unit but the unit needs to be large enough of course. Check how many amps is drawn.

As for the AC system on the 60 it has a control circuit that needs to be powered and the clutch on the compressor needs power as well to connect and start the compressing. This is a free standing box that connects to the switch on the heater panel, connects to a solenoid in the evaporator in the dash and connects to the clutch power lead on the compressor.

I imagine this will be no problem as long as you have a 12V supply to it and keep it on its own power system.

[roscoFJ73]

Originally Posted by Navasota Cruiser

This is my first post. I own a HJ60 with a 2H engine. My cruiser is 24 volt. How can I add an airconditioner and a radio. In other words, can 12 volt accessories be used or is there another better way to do this?

Im not sure if LHD or RHD will make a difference but maybe you could source one from a JDM import in Canada that would be 24 volt

[In2cruisers]

I would recommend going with a 24v AC unit, when it kicks on will probably max or blow your 24/12 converter.

[Sykoslug]

Originally Posted by roscoFJ73

Im not sure if LHD or RHD will make a difference but maybe you could source one from a JDM import in Canada that would be 24 volt

I too am interested in adding A/C to an HJ60. The truck comes from B.C. I live in Las Vegas - a truck with no A/C is suicide. Any body have any expertise int his area? Idea of costs, etc.
Thanks for any pointers.
-

[rchalmers3]

This is doable. I just completed the install like you are seeking and the wifey is pleased with the cool air. Some modifications get the nod of approval from the boss... Radio and A/C are can be considered relationship enhancements..


Use salvage parts to build the system: Evaporator core and box, switch and harness, amplifier, compressor brackets, pulleys and belt, condenser, dryer bracket and hoses. Change the compressor clutch to 24v and do a small amount of solution based wiring to have the 12v system operate with your 24v truck.

I found the price of the stock compressor mount was too steep for my budget so I built one from steel plate. I purchased a compressor new with a 24v clutch installed.

BTW, your truck may have provisions for installing a 12v radio. My HJ60 has a stock power inverter mounted inside the driver's fender that converts 24v to 12v for things like the radio. It's stock and if it's alrerady there on yours you will want to measure voltage at the radio power connector plug on the loom behind the glovebox.

Have some pics if you are truely interested.

Rick

[Sykoslug]

Thanks for the affirmation that an HJ60 can live in a desert. I am a novice when it comes to fabrication and assembly. Is there a source that you know of that would have the parts? I assume salvage entails hunting for a unit pulled from a derelict hj60 that had A/C, or perhaps an FJ from the usa? This is where the wheels fall off, I am very new to the LC world and its possibilities. Chances are I would recruit someome locally with some expertise to assist with the install.

BTW- where in costa are you? - Ihave been a few times - great surf, and climate !!

Cheers- syoslug

[rchalmers3]

Yes you can buy salvage A/C parts from mud members advertising parts for sale. The evaporator box and condenser will work just fine even if the "donor" truck is a 12v gasser.

However, you will need a few items that are rare in North America: The 2H compressor mounting bracket and the extra pulleys on the crank and water pump. You can shop around in Canada as well as some stateside importers of Aussie trucks and parts. In my recent experience, I tried a few of these vendors (no names, they advertise on mud) but they were very pricey and/or didn't want to pull parts off complete units.

I did find a helpful and willing vendor: Michael of privateparts in Australia. He got me what I needed quickly and at a very fair price.

I recommend that if you want to purchase used parts like a "kit" that you call him and describe your intention. He will most likely have what you need (less a 24v compressor) and give you a fair deal for it all.

This way you can approach a shop in your area with the parts they will need to perform an installation for you. Actually, I would talk with them first, before you spend time or energy ordering parts. Find a place willing to do this type of retro fit and listen to their suggestions and recommendations.

I hope this post helps and you find your way into driving with A/C in your truck,

Rick

[Sykoslug]

I will try to contact michael at private parts and get the low down on cost, availability etc.

Any idea where to find a 24V Compressor? I suppose there have to be some in Canada.

Thanks again for your help.
PURA VIDA

[rchalmers3]

You can go to a local auto A/C shop or most larger auto parts stores and order a compressor with a 24v clutch.

In addition you can compare the difference of purchasing a compressor with clutch or changing clutches on a compressor with 12v to 24v. Again, consult with a shop that is willing to tackle your project and ask their advise. While the cost of putting a 24v clutch on a compressor is cheaper, they will probably advise purchasing a unit new to lower the risk of problems and a redo later.

Ok man, get crack'in and let us know what you end up doing!

Rick

[rchalmers3]

Originally Posted by Sykoslug

BTW- where in costa are you? - Ihave been a few times - great surf, and climate !!

Cheers- syoslug

I'm in Playa Guiones on the Nicoya Peninsula, about 3 hours south of Tamarindo. Yeah, surf, sun and off roading in dust for six months of the year and mud the other six! It is a pura vida!

Rick

[roscoFJ73]

What makes a compressor 12v or 24 volt? If its just the electro magnetic clutch,wouldnt it be easy to just swap them over?

[rchalmers3]

Yes, I offered that option in post #10. However I also pointed out that some shops prefer not to work on used compressors. You know how it goes, with the last guy to touch it owns it....

Rick