I have a 1994 F450 built without air conditioning. Is it feasible to install a complete air conditioning system. I feel this may be a large task but I thought I would ask those who may have experienced this situation. If this is doable would a system removed from a downer vehicle work or would a aftermarket kit be better?
This is a 7.3 non turbo

 

I'm not sure how late Ford offered the dealer add on kit but the 88 I bought new had dealer ad on a/c. There is probably an idler where the compressor should go. If you have room for one of the old underdash units, then get the condenser, compressor, drier and pipes from a junkyard.

 

I ordered a new '99 F450 for work way back. I wanted a/c and a few other options. Found out it was going to take too long, they found me an "in stock" fleet truck and they installed factory a/c for me. I'm sure it is not that big of deal to add the factory pieces(change the dash control panel) and bolt the rest of the motor accy's on.

A donor truck would likely be a great way to do it. Make sure it is working(sealed), that way you know you don't have to replace items(like compressor). If not, I would recommend using new compressor, condenser and hoses. Using 20+ yr old parts that have been open to atmosphere is not good.

 

On the 96 f350 heater box is different between a/c and not a/c. I just finished installing a vintage air under dash unit in the truck (actually sits more in front of the dash because of trans hump). Cost around 1,500. plus the a/c compressor. Pic of install and finished.

 

Adding ac instead very hard, you will need compressor, Condenser, Evaporator orfice tube, lines and dryer, about 4-500 on rockauto. You will also need a low pressure switch and high pressure switch which you can either get new or from a junkyard.

You will only need to change the air box under the hood to the ac version and change your heater control ***** to ac version, junkyard for those.

All the wiring is in the truck for AC, you just need to put in the ac parts.

 

Best to have a donor truck especially one that you know all the parts work and have no leaks. Mine was a work truck so I didn't mind the loss of space and looks.

 

Gentlemen, I appreciate the responses and believe that a system removed from a donor will be my best path forward. I have located several 92-98 trucks in various models from F150 thru F350. No F450/550 however. Does anyone know if these components will be compatable with a 450? I understand the compressor will need to be matched with the 7.3.
Bob

 

Look on rockauto and compare part numbers between the f450 and 350 trucks, as far as I know they are the same but I've never worked on a f450.

 

Don't see why it would not fit an F450.