My GLHS either didn't come with or had the AC system and plumbing removed by prior owner (compressor, accumulator, hi/low lines etc.) however, the interior heat controls have AC functions (so I am thinking it was removed vs. not optioned). Can I install with any new retro-fitted AC compressor designated for the 2.2L engine, or are there special considerations given SHelby mods (the websites say they will work, but that may not be reality).
Detroit_in_SoCal
I ran a stock 1985 AC system on my Shelby spec 2.2L T2 in my 1985 Lebaron convertible. The only issue I had using R134a was head pressure going very high in heavy traffic, the belt would start to slip and chatter. Once I was moving the problem stopped.
The problem seemed to me to be caused by the condenser/radiator/intercooler layout where the fan (even though the correct one has 5 blades and supposedly a more powerful motor) wasn't pulling enough air through the condenser. The car, unfortunately was totaled in 2009 by a distracted driver. T2K-CAR MkII has a different system, complete 1992 Shadow R134a compressor, condenser and evaporator, a 1993 Grand Caravan expansion valve and the high pressure switch the caravan used to put the fan on high. The fan housing is fairly well sealed to the radiator support and the area in front and behind the condenser are also sealed so the air really has only one route, through everything.
The problem seemed to me to be caused by the condenser/radiator/intercooler layout where the fan (even though the correct one has 5 blades and supposedly a more powerful motor) wasn't pulling enough air through the condenser. The car, unfortunately was totaled in 2009 by a distracted driver. T2K-CAR MkII has a different system, complete 1992 Shadow R134a compressor, condenser and evaporator, a 1993 Grand Caravan expansion valve and the high pressure switch the caravan used to put the fan on high. The fan housing is fairly well sealed to the radiator support and the area in front and behind the condenser are also sealed so the air really has only one route, through everything.
You first have to determine whether or not the car came with A/C from the factory. Look for code "HAA" on the body plate under the hood. Also look for an expansion valve on the passenger side of the firewall. How about a condenser in front of the radiator? Two-prong plug harness for the low-side shutoff (near the expansion valve)? Four-stud compressor/alternator mounting bracket? Do you have these? If not, the job would probably be far too daunting (and expensive) to proceed.
If you're dealing with an A/C car, then yes, any 1980s-style A590/C171 compressor will work. You will have to play around with getting suction and discharge lines that properly fit, but you can use lines from other vehicles. Most aftermarket lines will use green HNBR O-rings to seal at the compressor in lieu of the factory aluminum 'N' gaskets.
There are many considerations in mocking up a system, so don't think it would be 100% plug-and-play. With a factory A/C car, however, it's 100% do-able. A few years ago I replaced the system in my old K-car wagon, for which many parts were obsolete. I used G-body lines. They were a tad long, but worked fine.
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If you're dealing with an A/C car, then yes, any 1980s-style A590/C171 compressor will work. You will have to play around with getting suction and discharge lines that properly fit, but you can use lines from other vehicles. Most aftermarket lines will use green HNBR O-rings to seal at the compressor in lieu of the factory aluminum 'N' gaskets.
There are many considerations in mocking up a system, so don't think it would be 100% plug-and-play. With a factory A/C car, however, it's 100% do-able. A few years ago I replaced the system in my old K-car wagon, for which many parts were obsolete. I used G-body lines. They were a tad long, but worked fine.
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