[stacy]

Assuming it's possible to add an A/C unit to a 1980 911sc, how much would that sort of job run? I saw an article on pelican indicating that it's possible, but a search of a forum didnt provide any sort of information regarding cost estimates.

TIA

[VaSteve]

1980 SC should have a/c already. In this case you would be re-installing parts removed by the PO. Cost is dependant on what you can get the parts for. People unload this all the time when building track cars. Some give it away. New, parts are *very* expensive. My PO rebuilt the whole a/c system in my Targa which is marginal at best.

[stacy]

Originally Posted by VaSteve

1980 SC should have a/c already. In this case you would be re-installing parts removed by the PO. Cost is dependant on what you can get the parts for. People unload this all the time when building track cars. Some give it away. New, parts are *very* expensive. My PO rebuilt the whole a/c system in my Targa which is marginal at best.

Ok, changing (or more likely bolstering) the initiatl assumptions. Assume the 911 is an ROW and never had A/C. Should be A/C-ready though, right?

[wludavid]

I wonder how difficult it would be to upgrade some of the parts to make a more effective a/c system? Maybe put in a bigger condenser and locate it in better airflow? Though I guess you'd have to sacrifice some oil-cooler space to do so.

The Germans just didn't understand how hot the US is when designing cars in the early 80's. I heard a story about BMW's US marketing guys inviting some engineers from the motherland to do a tour of a few dealerships. They traveled from Kansas City to Dallas in July in a black 5er. After that the air conditioning systems were beefed up considerably.

[stacy]

Originally Posted by wludavid

I wonder how difficult it would be to upgrade some of the parts to make a more effective a/c system? Maybe put in a bigger condenser and locate it in better airflow? Though I guess you'd have to sacrifice some oil-cooler space to do so.

The Germans just didn't understand how hot the US is when designing cars in the early 80's. I heard a story about BMW's US marketing guys inviting some engineers from the motherland to do a tour of a few dealerships. They traveled from Kansas City to Dallas in July in a black 5er. After that the air conditioning systems were beefed up considerably.

Found this link a bit earlier....

http://www.griffiths.com/porsche/ac/ice/index.html

[Trak Ratt]

If the car has the center dashboard vents it likely had AC sometime in its life. After market AC units should come with a one piece air distribution piece that includes controls for under dash installation. You can also find add on AC from earlier cars. Unless the car you are looking at is exceptional it would likely be easier and less $$$ to find one with a complete AC unit.

[MatP]

FWIW, I just pulled a complete, WORKING AC system out of my 88 Carrera. The compressor and condensors have been oiled and sealed up to prevent internal rust. I have all the parts available.

[Rick Lee]

I have a nice, working condition rebuilt compressor available from my '83 SC and I may still have the mounting hardware.

[Rick V]

I removed the working ac from my 82, The compressor is new(within 2 years) it is just sitting on the shelf if you need it pm me and we can hack out the details. I did however keep the front fan and evap box for venting use.

[88carrera]

I spent a lot of time last summer getting my a/c running again (leak in rear condenser).

I went to use it when we had a few hot days a couple of weeks ago to find it is not working again. Most likely the r134a leaked out through the original hoses.

When funds permit I am going to:

- rip out the hoses and install r134a compatible barrier hoses
- install a more efficient condenser with fan in the rear fender