VCCA Home Forums TECHNICAL - 1945 AND EARLIER 1937-1945 Has anyone run an AC system with 216 engine?

The one modern convenience I miss with when driving my 38 is air conditioning.
-I most often hear running ac after they install a v8, but little knowledge of many running ac with 6 cylinders.
-I like the look of swamp coolers along with column fans, etc.. but I don't think they will be much comfortable in 90+ degree weather.
Anyone have experience?
Thanks
Mike A

I cannot see any reason why you couldnt put AC on a 216. Acquiring the compressor mounting brackets would be a problem down here but you may have better luck in the US. The alternative is to manufacture your own but that wont be an easy exercise either.
Tony

I have seen a/c on a six cyl. 51 chevy, but do not know if it was converted to 12 volts first. I believe most hot rod and early truck suppliers will recommend the conversion to 12 volts for several reasons with alternator and a/c the most common.

This company has a nice package that works. You will need to convert to 12 volts along with an alternator. Most of the time an electric fan is needed to push enough air thru the condenser to make the system work properly. With the clutch on the compressor, blower motor and electric fan you need more amps than a generator can supply.

http://www.vintageair.com/

Mike,

I'm in the Bay Area also and have an interest in AC, doing all my own AC work. It's hardly rocket science so don't be intimidated by it. I've put AC on 3 vehicles that did not come from the factory that way and it's pretty basic.

On the 1936 Chevy Owners forum there is a guy named Gordon Marks. His company, Marks Air in Florida, has been doing auto AC for over 40 years. Because of his interest in his own antique Chevy and his AC expertise he would probably be able to tell you how to get the most bang for the buck on the project you are contemplating.

To install auto AC, in addition to the actual hardware, you need refrigerant (R134 or R12), a gauge manifold and a vacuum pump. I have the gauges and vacuum pump if you're interested what simple devices they are. They cost much less than hiring someone to evacuate the system to dry it and dispense in the refrigerant. R134 is a parts store item.

Contact "Hot Rod Air" in Sonora. Only about 100 miles from the bay area, and they specialize in early installations. 209-532-8700.

Thank you gents, I actually forgot i posted this question as my 38 has been down for over a year but she's running again. i noticed a gent selling his 39 Master Deluxe and he is running vintage air with a 235 so I figured that would be nice as it can get a bit warm in the summer in East Contra Costa