Topic: air conditioning

[chrisfranklin]

I am working on the paintjob and swaping the locks on a used tailgate replacement I have.  So, wasn't looking to start another Jeep project. 

But, I have to admit, an A/C install would be nice and would make the darn thing tolerable when I have to keep the top on and windows up.
I know the not exactly over-abundant 4Banger power would take a further hit with an A/C compressor running off the engine.  But, I could handle that occasional power loss more than I could handle just out-right buying a second vehicle with factory A/C.

The kit I saw at Collins Bros. runs $900 for the later model YJs.   Then some guys are selling complete used A/C kits pulled from YJs for a few hundred.  You think this old kit from an 88 YJ would work?   

 http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/COMPLETE-A-C-FOR-88-JEEP-WRANGLER_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ33543QQihZ014QQitemZ330104152570QQrdZ1

You guys ever try installing one of the kits or used one pulled from another Jeep?
(you guys who already have A/C can just  )

[Jeffy]

The pump won't work.  It's bracket is different.  Problem with a system that's used is that you don'y know how long it's been apart.  Seals start to dry rot since the refrigerant lubricates the seals.

Also keep in mind that new kits will use R-134a refrigerant instead of R-12.  Kinda hard to even find Freon anymore.  Seals, will need to be replaced along with the accumulator, I think.

http://www.ackits.com/ is a popular place to get AC stuff.  Their complete kit uses a generic compressor and a special bracket.  They sell the OEM compressor but not with the complete kit for some reason.  This is only a problem if you plan on using a york OBA since you can't have multiple brackets.

[Jesse-James]

The story you always hear about expensive R-12 to 134a conversions is not necessary. When I went for my refrigerant license last year I asked the instructor about this since my olds is R-12 and needed a charge. The problem is the oil in the refrigerant, 134a uses a different oil than the 12 and when mixed it turns into cottage cheese. However if you just have the shop completely evacuate the system you can charge it yourself with 134a and should be fine. Be sure to use the high mileage freon with the seal conditioner. I've heard several stories about how you have to replace this and that but nobody has given me any proof. I charged my Olds a year ago and ran all summer with zero problems, Ice cold. Bought the kit with the adapter fittings at Wal-Mart in Chicago for 35.00 and came with everything including 3lbs of 134a and instructions on a CD-ROM. I had it evacuated at a buddy's shop for free, but it shouldn't be much to have it done. Also anytime you remove a line from an AC system always replace the seals, they're cheaper than refrigerant.

I hate DuPont. All this changeover crap is because their patent was up. DuPont held the patent on R12. They conducted the study on the Ozone damage that they say R-12 caused. All theory, nothing proven and all done by DuPonts lab. Then they lobbied Washington the have it outlawed because they got the patent on it's replacement the 134a. Now their monopoly holds. How convenient.

[lanulos89]

i ripped my condenser out, ripping the whole "A/C" unit from the dash soon, its stock mopar unt, it will be for sale, you need to get a i forgot the name the radiator for the a/c system i could look it up but im too lazy.

[jcsanders79]

I have ac on my TJ keep thinking about replacing it with an on board air system but it is really nice when its 95* out and your stuck in traffic or its raining.  As for power you definately loose it, but ever since I regeared its not so bad.

[Mozman68]

I've only used mine a couple of times....but I just can't stand that feeling of it kicking on and sudden;y I think I have 4 flat tires (same with the defrost except not half as bad).

[chrisfranklin]

i ripped my condenser out, ripping the whole "A/C" unit from the dash soon, its stock mopar unt, it will be for sale, you need to get a i forgot the name the radiator for the a/c system i could look it up but im too lazy.

I might be interested. So basically you are talking everything but the radiator? I wouldn't sell it if you get fairly hot, humid weather - Jeep with top up turns in to a greenhouse without A/C.  But, I could live with driving my Jeep like it had four flat tires as long as it had A/C going 

(Note:  I guess its legal in California to use what was essentially the factory A/C for your given model year Jeep, even if coolant type has been changed by regulations in subseqent years)

[Jesse-James]

(Note:  I guess its legal in California to use what was essentially the factory A/C for your given model year Jeep, even if coolant type has been changed by regulations in subseqent years)

Good luck finding it. And affording it if you do.

[lanulos89]

in the summer i run no top 24/7  i just picked up a bikini  top off my friend so that will be my summer top also doors are off too.  i also strip my jeep of all valuables during the summer too, like the sub and tools etc.  unless im wheeling then tools and tow stuff gets thrown in the back

[jcsanders79]

so you think a standard soft top is enough protection from theives?  Most of the time i don't lock my doors just hoping that if someone wants to take something they will use the door not a knive on the top. 

[aw12345]

The whole used ac thing is definitely feasible. I would go for the 134A since its a whole lot cheaper and readily available. Now on the compressor try to find a new one most used ones have a leaking front seal and are not rebuildable. This a flaw on the rotary compressor that Ford Jeep and almost everybody else uses. They are not rebuildable like say an old York compressor. Other than that use new seals and O rings, evacute it with a vacuum pummp charge and be cool. For power you could add a full throttle switch to cut the ac out at full throttle will help with hill climbing and passing

Art

[damon54]

www.jeepair.com has got some good prices on refurbished compressors.  I think 179$.  Best price I've seen on a compressor so far.  The guy that runs the site is really helpful too.

[chrisfranklin]

I've only used mine a couple of times....

Where I am at, I know I am going to be using it 7-8 months out of the year due to warm weather, smog (often tend to keep top up in order to keep your shirts clean here, unfortunately) and my tendency to sweat a lot (I'm still fairly athletic and I sweat easily).  I might end up wearing out the compressor and fan motor I'll use the thing so much.   

[Jeffy]

A/C is one of the things I'd like to add.  I'd defiantly put a switch for the compressor or else turn it off when hills or acceleration is necessary.

[Jesse-James]

The way I see it is if it's too hot.....drive faster.






View might be different if I lived in Cali though.