AC Options - 2022

[BlueGorilla]

Hi all,
Did some searching and found what looks to be out of date threads about current options for adding/updating AC components.

Most recent thread I found:
http://www.dodgecharger.com/forum/index.php/topic,136114.0.html

It looks as though Vintage Air has updated their product line, including a newer electronic controller that surprisingly matches the factory controls pretty well. I also like how Vintage routes their lines through the fender and in through the access panel.

Vintage kit (gotta search I guess): https://www.vintageair.com/surefit/complete-kits/
Vintage controller: https://www.vintageair.com/custom/product-pop.php?pn=474155

Classic air: https://www.classicautoair.com/shop/complete-ac-systems/mopar-ac-systems/mopar-b-body-ac-systems/charger-ac-systems/1969-dodge-charger-air-conditioning-system/


Any updated thoughts on the options?

[armor64]

I went with Vintage Air, had great luck with the kits on my 78 GMC heavy Half  and my dads 51 chevy shortbed. The bonus was that their pair of centre vents were the perfect size to fit inside the Centre AC Dash pad i was able to get on eBay, with us making a stainless sleeve for them to mount in to keep the padding square. Everything bolted into place, and considering i had 0 HVAC when i got the basket case, not hunting for any other parts was wonderful.

[AKcharger]

Hi BG

I was going to make a comprehensive post on AC but short answer is if you want to co cheap and functional classic auto air is the way to go, about $2K and you're good. Problems come as you try and meld stock parts with the kit parts. I did my Non-AC '72 that way and I'm happy. I'm currently going through EVERYTHING on my factory AC car. complete system rebuild: hoses, condenser, evaporator compressor and Box is gonna be about $3500 and that's with me putting everything back in. I started to get it going but somewhere in the 50 Y/O system there is a leak and or contamination so EVERYTHING has to be gone through, hence $$$

Search function is horrible...here '72 http://www.dodgecharger.com/forum/index.php/topic,138138.msg1716508.html#msg1716508
and my fun with the factory sys http://www.dodgecharger.com/forum/index.php/topic,139769.0.html

[AKcharger]

http://www.dodgecharger.com/forum/index.php/topic,141404.msg1744933.html#msg1744933

[Mike DC]

IMO the factory AC box under the dash is better than the aftermarket stuff.  Bigger capacity in general, and it gives you the option to switch between outside air or recirculated air. 

But yeah, the factory setup tends to soak up a couple thousand bucks in restoration work.  And if you are converting a non-AC car then it's a big job.  Gathering up interior parts, cutting some big elaborate holes in the firewall & dash frame, etc.
 

[AZMoparboy]

Hi Guys,
I totally agree with Mike DC. Yes the components are antiquated, everything can be restored. I'm a glutton for punishment with certain components on these old cars. I am the proud owner of a third GEN charger with an all factory AC system with real R12 refrigerant. Yes I did have some misfires on the restoration of the AC system and after a few try's, I achieve success. Yes you can find real R12 out there, I bought a case of R12 off of eBay.

In the end the decision is all yours. The car is yours and witch ever Direction you go with, your chosen system it will turn out great. My two cents.

Azmoparboy

[1970Moparmann]

Isn't there a system that is a "firewall forward" option to use the original ac heater box?   I looked on both websites and don't see this option.

[b5blue]

Isn't there a system that is a "firewall forward" option to use the original ac heater box?   I looked on both websites and don't see this option.

Classic and others can provide modern under hood components.