Stock AC fittings question

[red66toy]

Yeah, but in thinking about the optimal setup for r134a conversion it would seem that its ideally suited to use the parallel flow condenser like newer cars and not the older r12 condenser (tube and fin?). Maybe I am splitting hairs with this? However, a condenser that is 30% more efficient doesn't seem like a small number, especially when most people on here using an r134a converted system report vent temps higher than the original r12 system.

 

[Spike Strip]

Mine is a stock system converted to r134a. Cools great, as cool as stock - The trouble is keeping refrigerant in the system as I'm told by others on the board the 134 molecules are much smaller than r12 - so r134a in a r12 system the gas escapes quicker. I have a manifold gauge set and usually just top off at beginning of Summer. However, your idea may be an upgrade. Don't know enough about AC.

 

[1972FJ55]

Just about any parallel flow 16x26 condenser will work. I do not think that Rex is part of the company that he was working with before,but I may be mistaken. He certainly was helpful and great to work with!

No longer there, but still have A/C parts available through my current employer. A universal condenser like this one should do the job.

 

[red66toy]

Do you think a parallel flow condenser is a worthwhile "upgrade" over a new OEM unit?

 

[1972FJ55]

Either will work. The parallel flow might be a bit better if using R134a in a really hot climate. Is it worth doing? If I was doing an engine swap where I'm going to be changing the hoses anyway, then yes, otherwise it would be tough to justify.

 

[red66toy]

Hmmmm, ok. Thank you for your opinion. Definitely food for thought. Doesn't sound like its worth at this point in time then.

 

[Spike Strip]

Ah, do it anyway - Inquiring minds want to know!

 

[red66toy]

Ah, do it anyway - Inquiring minds want to know!

Bahaha, trust me I am tempted....

 

[red66toy]

Just to get back to this thread (@Spike Strip ). I am pressing forward with this madness now. Parallel flow condenser is on its way (14x26). New compressor, evaporator, and expansion valve will be added. Need to find a local place that can make new lines. Will update as this goes forward.

 

[red66toy]

I never updated this, but did in my "build thread". I did install a parallel flow condenser as well as all new A/C system components including new r134a compatible lines. Had the system charged a couple days ago after a faulty schrader valve leaked. I measured temps down to 40.2 degrees. Might have gotten colder but the drive ended. Not sure how good that is for r134a vs r12 but I am very happy. Wife and kid in the back seat also enjoyed the cold air.

These wagons are greenhouses and the A/C system sure has a big task trying to cool the whole cabin.

 

[NeverGiveUpYota]

Good info. I’ve been pondering putting my system back into play. As of yet I’ve not made a solid decision.

 

[POTATO LAUNCHER]

Just to confirm my suspicions on the firewall hose fittings to the evaporator, has anyone ID'd the sizes or are you just crimping the proper AN fittings to the stock lines? Replacing the bad A6 style compressor and mount for a Sanden R134 setup on the SBC in the near future. Plan is to go all new from the evap connections out.
Current status is charged with R12 but compressor is not building pressure.
Any info or experience is welcome.
Casey..

 

[orion]

Just to confirm my suspicions on the firewall hose fittings to the evaporator, has anyone ID'd the sizes or are you just crimping the proper AN fittings to the stock lines? Replacing the bad A6 style compressor and mount for a Sanden R134 setup on the SBC in the near future. Plan is to go all new from the evap connections out.
Current status is charged with R12 but compressor is not building pressure.
Any info or experience is welcome.
Casey..

The top fitting is a metric o-ring size, I believe...I could not find a matching end, so I had a hydraulic shop make my new line using part of the OEM FJ60 hose.

The bottom fitting is a standard #10 o-ring fitting.

I documented my AC install pretty well here:

V8 (SBC) to V8 (Gen III Vortec) swap in my FJ60...

- Brian

 

[POTATO LAUNCHER]

Excellent Brian. Thanks Mucho!
Since my system doesnt leak I assume the evaporator is good. Replace expansion valve, bypass amp and run a new trinary swith off the new dryer is my plan. I don't anticipate heat issues but the trinary switch allows for the addition of a pusher fan if needed.