I am going to try and tackle adding A/C to a current non-A/C 1988 F250 4x4 with a 4.9L L6.
I was considering find a donor truck to get the A/C components from and originally I was trying to find something close to 1988, but would I be better off finding something that may already be R134a and still would fit the truck, like a 1995 or 1996?
If a 95 or 96 that is already R134a would fit, then I would think maybe this would be the best way to go.
Thanks for any help or suggestions anyone can provide.

 

The difference to get to r134 is just a few o-rings and misc components no joke the difference of maybe $20 at best. Talk to some backyard mechanic. Going to be tough getting components used since there is no guarantee that they will work. I would suggest getting new hoses and o-rings for r134. Possible a new compressor unless you know of a used one that works. Non-moving components I think would be fine off of a donor truck.

 

I have found a 96 F150 with a 4.9L and working A/C. I can get the equipment or even the whole truck at a very reasonable price. My question now is, will the A/C (and other items for that matter) swap over to my 88? I know the 87-96 are similar but with both being at opposite ends of this era, I am concerned if I would be able to use much off the 96 on my 1988.

 

they are the same motor so you should be able to get all the brackets, compressor and everything you need. they problem comes when you try to wire the thing in!

 

The stuff under the hood will probably work, the stuff under the dash, not so much. Still, if you have everything from the firewall forward setup for a/c, you should be able use your existing plumbing under the dash to distribute the cool air, you will just need a switch on the dash to turn on the compressor.

Now, if you want a total factory look, then you will need a 1987-1991 donor dash and wiring.

 

you'd probably need a donor dash to to control the temp... other wise you'd be turning the ac on and of when it gets too cold or hot with the on/off toggle switch

 

I think his non-a/c truck has all the same stuff under the dash except for the recirc. It still has a blend door to control the temp, cable actuated, just like the a/c one. It has dash registers for vents, right?

 

my bad... comment recinded... it's friday and i'm off work in 10 mins! brain farts common on friday at this time!