I need to replace the A/C compressor on my '83 F100 and I'm not sure what compressor is right. I'm sure the one on the truck isn't original and I'm converting to R134a while I'm at it. I've found an FS6 for a reasonable price and it looks the same externally but has the wrong clutch/pulley. I'd like to know if all the compressors that look the same externally are the same internally. If they are I don't mind moving the clutch from my bad compressor to this one and using it. Thanks!

 

A compressor is pretty much the same as any other compressor. There are differences though. If it bolts up, you should be able to change the pulley on it.

 

Based on my measurements and what I'm hearing from Parts Plus, it is a match so I went ahead and ordered it. When I get the system flushed and back together I'll post how it worked.

 

It'll work. My '83 has a compressor from a Lincoln on it. I changed the clutch, too.

 

It worked! I flushed the system with mineral sprits (lots of trash in the evaporator) and a/c flush. Installed the FS-6 compressor with my old pulley and clutch plate and a new accumulator. I added about 2oz Ester 100 oil to the evaporator, accumulator and compressor. I spun the compressor by hand for 5 revolutions, added 2 more ounces of oil to the suction ports and spun it 10 revolutions by hand. Cleaned the screen that was just upstream of the line that ran fom the condenser to the orifice and put in a new red orifice. I used new green o-rings on every fitting and lubricated the threads with never-seize. I evauated the system and it held vacuum. I put in one can of R134a and used snoop to check for leaks at all the fittings while it had about 70 psi. I then added 2oz of ester oil and 3 more cans of R134a for a total of 3# R134a and 10 ounces or Ester 100. I'm now seeing 56F at the register when it's 95 outside. My son is happy, my wife is happy, I'm happy.

Now if I can only determine why I can't get full switching of the air from the dash to the floor or defrost vents. It's trying to change but not going all the way. The majority of the air is coming out of the dash vents.