1968 Roadster -- Need advice on AC

[1994Roadster]

I bought a 68 roadster, factory air car, with 327/300HP. It is missing the compressor, brackets, hoses and condenser (in front or radiator) The expansion valve and other hardware are still attached to the AC box.

I would appreciate some advice on what AC parts (old school or modern) would give me the best performance and reliability? I have read a few posts on installing a blower motor assembly from a C4 corvette. What exact year fits (with spacer)? I am going to install insulation under the carpet. What would be a good compressor to run? Should I go with R-12 or 134A?

I'm sure there are some experts out there.

Thanks (in advance)

Larry Kalina
Houston, Texas

[goertz]

there are plenty of people out there who will tell you R134-A sucks. It's simply not true. I've converted quite a few cars (not corvettes mind you) from R-12 to 134. they all blew just as cold as they did on R12. People think you need some expensive "retrofit" that costs a million bucks. again, not true. it's really a simple process. all the o-rings in the system have to be replaced with 134 friendly o rings. You'd have to do this anyway being that they system is apart, and all AC o rings you buy today are 134 friendly. anyway, replace all the orings, the "retrofit kit" consists of 2 shraeder valve adapters, and can be bought at any auto parts store for about 10 bucks. hoses, compressors, and all the other parts work just fine on 134A, and don't let anyone tell you otherwise. replace the dryer, go to Pep Boys and get a stock, reman compressor for about $100 and slap it on. you can take off all the rebuilders stickers, and buy GM replacement stickers and no one but you will know the difference. charge her up, and enjoy the cool air. this way, if you ever have leaks, or have to do repairs, you can put in 134A a 5 bucks a pound, as opposed to R12, and I have no idea what that's going for per pound, I haven't checked in years, but last time I looked, it was about 60 bucks a pound.