2F Engine + AC + Soft Top

[prstentop]

In my search for a TLC FJ 40/45 I keep waffling between a V8 or the 2F. My gut says stick with the horsepower. Especially with AC, which I need to have to keep other family members on board with the truck. I have found several 2F 40s I really like. My question is this: realistically, can the 2F (carb, not fuel injected) with it's limited power really handle the additional rigors of a compressor and keep a cabin cool, especially if it is full soft top and not a hard top? We are in Virginia so the summers can get up there, along with the humidity. Anyone have any experience with this? I am attaching a couple of engine bay shots of some trucks I have recently looked at. Seems the room is still limited no matter what drivetrain is used, at least to some degree. Thanks!

 

[3_puppies]

you realize neither option is great without further modifications. a/c in a 40 keeps it bearable/comfortable, to think it will be the equivalent of a modern vehicle, not going to happen.
black soft top? there will be lots of heat transfer from the black
plus all the heat transfer thru the firewall and from under the floorboards

 

[prstentop]

Totally understand it isn't going to be like a modern AC experience. No doubt. Just wanted to see if it was "passable" with a soft top before eliminating the idea of a soft top and moving in the direction of hard top only. Also just a little concerned about the 2Fs ability. Thanks much for the response!

 

[3_puppies]

my 2F does just fine in my 1980 with factory air. it's a 2F it isn't going anywhere fast

something in your question is saying the wife really doesn't like this idea and you're trying to get her OK. she most likely will never fully enjoy the rig.

 

[prstentop]

Cool...I really want to keep my options open as to tops, engine, etc. So that helps. And no offense to the older factory AC, but I bet the newer Vintage Air, etc. might even do a better job these days. Thanks

 

[prstentop]

As far as the wife, I think she will be fine with even a marginal AC....she does aok in my ancient jacked up Ranger with crappy AC!! She's 28 years Army, I think she can hack it!!

 

[3_puppies]

Cool...I really want to keep my options open as to tops, engine, etc. So that helps. And no offense to the older factory AC, but I bet the newer Vintage Air, etc. might even do a better job these days. Thanks

I don't know how the vents work on aftermarket a/c, but you still need to do something with the heat transfer thru the floorboard/firewall as your feet will still get hot even tho from your waist up is cool

 

[Ramey]

I have a 2F with a Vintage Air and a Trollhole soft top. The 2F seems to handle it fine. The Vintage Air can keep the front seats (driver and passenger) cool, even in the Houston summers. Haven’t had any rear seat riders to tell how it is back there. @3_puppies is right though, your feet can get toasty.

 

[prstentop]

I'll try and research some insulation carpet or matting that might work. I used a product called reflectix in my boat that just might work. Worth a try anyway. Cheap!

 

[White Stripe]

If u look in my build thread I used insulation with my ac that is inexpensive and effective. Choose the motor that you enjoy driving the most.

 

[prstentop]

Sorry, but how do I get to your thread?thx

 

[Ramey]

Sorry, but how do I get to your thread?thx

Linked in his sig block - Build Thread: FJ60 axle in my 40

 

[apeterson]

I have had both.. my current truck has a RAMJET. I would never go back to a 2f.....