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I am considering options for adding AC to my truck and would like feedback from people that have used some of the different types on the market.
Both the Old Air and Vintage Air systems designed to replace the stock heater and mount up under the dash will run about $1100 for both inside and outside kits from MidFifty. I have also been looking at the Southern Air Kits and am considering something like their under the dash Trimline heat and AC kit which is around $620 which is a considerable savings over the other two.
For those of you who have added AC or used any of these systems, please let me know what you think of that brand and how easy it was to install as well as any pros or cons that you have found.
I posted my question after doing a quick search that came up blank but then doing more searching I am finding lots of good information on this subject. Wish I could delete my original post as some more diligence on my part is finding lots of good information on what others have installed and what seems to work well.
I used the Vintage Air evaporator unit in my 53, have been well satisfied with the unit after 2 years and 20K miles. Had to put together my own underhood system since I am running a sort of unique power plant. :-)
I am considering options for adding AC to my truck and would like feedback from people that have used some of the different types on the market.
Both the Old Air and Vintage Air systems designed to replace the stock heater and mount up under the dash will run about $1100 for both inside and outside kits from MidFifty. I have also been looking at the Southern Air Kits and am considering something like their under the dash Trimline heat and AC kit which is around $620 which is a considerable savings over the other two.
For those of you who have added AC or used any of these systems, please let me know what you think of that brand and how easy it was to install as well as any pros or cons that you have found.
Thanks,
Alan
Hey if you go with the southern air unit please let me know what you think of it.... Thanks Dan
I used a generic under dash unit and was able to fab up the hoses so that they are minimally visible in my engine compartment. The unit had no trouble cooling the cab on a recent 95 degree day. I'm real pleased with my results.
I used a Vintage Air Gen II Compact. Very pleased so far. I did a lot of research before I bought it, Southern Air had several complaints, but they also had a lot of compliments. I bought my compressor mount and pulleys from CVF Racing.
Originally I was thinking of going with an Old Air or Vintage Air replacement system but have started leaning towards the Mark IV Under Dash A/C you mentioned. I also like the fact I do not lose the stock heater and like the Vintage add-on look. One thing I think I would loose is the use of the cowl vent if I go with one of these under the dash units, unless there is some work around for that. I like having a functional cowl vent but that is not a deal killer.
I've been looking at a system called Vapir2 by Restomod air at restomodair.com, it's a new very compact unit for our older vehicles. It seems a little pricey,but it looks a lot better than the other choices. Good luck,L8R ZFLASH
I posted my question after doing a quick search that came up blank but then doing more searching I am finding lots of good information on this subject. Wish I could delete my original post as some more diligence on my part is finding lots of good information on what others have installed and what seems to work well.
Thanks,
Alan
Rather than trying to delete the post or thread, it would be more helpful if you added the information you found so others could benefit. That's what the forum is all about.
Here is my Mark IV and I liked the metal & chrome and didn't want to cobble the glove box. I am running the hoses out into the right fender area along the side of the inner fender panel. I can still use the stock radio mounting. This speaker big enough???
TractormanBill
One thing I think I would loose is the use of the cowl vent if I go with one of these under the dash units, unless there is some work around for that. I like having a functional cowl vent but that is not a deal killer.
Try making a cardboard template using the dimensions in the tech information. Cut some flat pieces of cardboard and tape them together. It is crude, but effective, when you need to get an idea of where to put something. I think you can put the Mark IV to the right of the cowl vent handle. The only other thing to watch for is to make sure you don't block your glove box door, which swings down below the dash.
edit: tractormanbill posted a picture while I was typing. This once again proves a picture can be worth a 1000 words.
