It's time to fix the A/C

[Bigdav160]

We are finally in our summertime pattern of 100º days and 99% humidity.

When I was young man, cruising around without A/C was no big deal but the wife and kids won't get into the vehicle if the A/C isn't running. So I'm on a quest to get the Suburban A/C fixed.

I did a search, on this site and others, and didn't see what I was looking for. It seems most go for a Vintage air kit or nothing. Since much of my system is still operating (the controls and blower are OK) I'm thinking "update".

This will include new barrier hoses, parallel flow condenser, POA, expansion valves and possibly a new compressor. The Pro6ten compressor appears to be available through ACDelco and 4 Seasons for around $260

I'm thinking this condenser will do the job.

Any comments? Anyone done this already on a Suburban front and rear air?

[lrader99]

If all the original components are there then this is what I would recommend.

Pull the system into a vacuum and see if there are any leaks. If the system can maintain a stable vacuum for 30 minutes then perfrom the following:

- Remove receiver/dryer & POA/expansion valve and flush the system
- Remove the compressor, drain and refill with proper qty of Ester oil.
- Once system is flushed and dried reassemble POA/expansion valve(properly wrap the sensing bulb)(lube o-rings)
- Replace Receiver/Dryer (lube o-rings)
- pull system into a deep vacuum for at least 15 minutes 30 minutes is preferred.
- Charge system with proper amount of R134 (R134 charge is approx 75% of R12 charge)

*A 10% over charge is equal to a 30% or more undercharge

[tlcrz1972]

I've tried the POA style system with 134 and have had very dismal results.

I have spoke to people who claim that their system works with the POS (I mean POA) style system. But never got to sit in their vehicle and see (or feel) it perform.

I have tried the POA delete valve no luck, and really had no real good luck until I updated to a 1973 and up style system. Using the A6 compressor. But it still just wasn't enough cooling.

So when I went to a pancake style compressor with the 73 up style set up I have had the most luck of getting cooling.

I can't answer why but it works. I've done 3 system, 2 for myself and one for a friend and I am very happy with the performance.

[tlcrz1972]

And yes I have just used the condenser like what your showing on the last system, it works. I have also used factory AC delco condensers of of 1990 up suburbans, mounting is a little different. If interested I can shoot some pictures for you.

[tlcrz1972]

Her is a few pictures.

Yes it isn't stock looking but I swear it works. I've spent too many hours and to many $100.00 bills as well, trying to make the old POA style system work.

Plus the pancake compressor doesn't use as much horse power.

I have a mechanic friend and we've discussed these old system multiple times, he has done several attempts at different configurations. And he usually goes the little japanese compressors. And unfortunately he went the old air system on the last one.

[Motiveworks]

Newbie here -

Any good start to finish guides on AC systems installation for a 1969?
I'm looking to purchase this weekend and dive into this right away.

I've been told 'all the stock parts are there accept compressor and hoses' which (as you noted above) is the available from 4 seasons. I am assuming the hoses can be sourced pretty easily as well. (Suggestions?).

Attached is an image of what I'm starting with.

Any guidance or direction to threads or resources to look at for this? I've searched the website and read through some threads and builds....

Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

[Motiveworks]

Sorry - here's a larger pic.

[Bigdav160]

Where's the rest of it? You have no evaporator case. I don't see a condenser core.

Does it have the inside components?

Is this a Suburban with rear air?

[Motiveworks]

This supposedly is a suburban with rear air.
None of the AC components are installed. I've been told the current owner has all the pieces minus the compressor. I'll see tomorrow. Installation of the complete AC system seems like quite a job - correct me if I'm wrong.
Thanks

[Bigdav160]

It's not as bad as you think. Any missing parts seem to be available.

I bought my barrier hoses and splices (to the rear) off eBay. The front hose I purchased from Classic Industries during a sale. Compressor came from Amazon.

[Motiveworks]

Thanks
(Sorry for hijacking the thread)
I went and looked at the suburban today
I'll try pushing a fresh thread and get you more experienced guys thoughts
Thanks