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67twinkie · 02-23-2010, 01:26 PM

My '67 International Overlander came with a Frigi King AC. Anyone familiar with this brand? How difficult is it to switch out with a newer model? The existing unit is really large and ugly. Thanks.

Boondocker · 02-23-2010, 01:31 PM

Never heard of it. Assuming it has the standard hole size (14" I think) it is a pretty easy change out. Pull off the old one, drop in the new one. Bolt it down, wire it up. I redid the AC in my 68 about a month ago and it was easy even for me. I would grab one of the Carrier low profiles while they are still obtainable- in fact I did. I also recommend the heat strip.

67twinkie · 02-23-2010, 01:36 PM

Thanks for the quick response.

TomW · 02-23-2010, 02:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 67twinkie

... The existing unit is really large and ugly.

Most RV AC units are rather large. Some people appear to believe ANY air conditioner spoils the look of an Airstream.

Since you took exception to the unit's appearance, be forewarned that most replacement units are large. Since beauty is subjective, you may want to research if, to you, better looking units are available.

Would you mind posting a picture of your present air conditioner?

Thanks,
Tom

Jammer · 02-23-2010, 02:18 PM

Well, in all fairness, nobody puts them on for looks.

SilverHoot · 02-23-2010, 02:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gen Disarray

Never heard of it. Assuming it has the standard hole size (14" I think) it is a pretty easy change out. Pull off the old one, drop in the new one. Bolt it down, wire it up. I redid the AC in my 68 about a month ago and it was easy even for me. I would grab one of the Carrier low profiles while they are still obtainable- in fact I did. I also recommend the heat strip.

I have read here on the forums that in 1967 they went thru the roof with two smaller holes and if you were to upgrade to a modern AC you would need to add some bracing and cut the standard 14" square. Mind you I am not to that stage yet but pretty sure that is what I have read. Also, not familiar with the AC that you have. Guess it is possible that yours has already been retrofitted for a 14" opening as is more standard.

TomW · 02-23-2010, 02:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jammer

Well, in all fairness, nobody puts them on for looks.

Jammer,

Since you probably did a lot of research before purchasing a current model Airstream, can one purchase an Airstream today WITHOUT an air conditioner?

Thanks,
Tom

Boondocker · 02-23-2010, 02:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TomW

Since you took exception to the unit's appearance, be forewarned that most replacement units are large.
Tom

I can say that the low profile unit I replaced the Dometic dinosaur with looks much better. I am waiting to see if it makes any difference in my mileage. In theory, there should be less wind resistance, but for all I know the air flow was going over the top of the old AC anyway

TomW · 02-23-2010, 02:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gen Disarray

I can say that the low profile unit I replaced the Dometic dinosaur with looks much better...

Rodney,

Would you care to share a picture of your installed unit? It may help 67twinkie with his issue.

Thanks,
Tom

Boondocker · 02-23-2010, 02:50 PM

here, this may be the best I have at the moment

eubank · 02-23-2010, 03:03 PM

Our 67 had an original Bay Breeze when we bought it, and, of course, it finally died. The BB required just a couple of very small holes through the roof (the largest about 3-4" in diameter). Obviously, we needed the standard 14" hole for the new unit (a low-profile Carrier). And, yes, a good deal of bracing of the new hole is required, for the weight of the new unit rests squarely around the edges of the 14" hole. If you're lucky, though, somebody already added strong bracing when your unit was originally installed.

Would I recommend the job to the unhandy? Probably not, but it's not impossible. Since the old unit came off in pieces, I could take off one part at a time and give each a mighty heave over the side. The most difficult part was getting the new one up onto the roof and positioned. Maria and I did it alone, but it was one major task, probably too much for our miserable physical conditions.

Lynn

TomW · 02-23-2010, 03:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Gen Disarray

here, this may be the best I have at the moment

Rodney,

Dude!

There's still light outside as we speak. Go snap a new picture and post it!

Tom

TomW · 02-23-2010, 03:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by eubank

Our 67 had an original Bay Breeze when we bought it, ...

That's EXACTLY the same unit I have down to every last detail pictured!

Simply incredible.

Tom

Boondocker · 02-23-2010, 03:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TomW

Rodney,

Dude!

There's still light outside as we speak. Go snap a new picture and post it!

Tom

I moved it into the shed (think concrete floors and roof) to install the tank when it became apparent that the snow and rain were going to make working on it impossible otherwise. BUT I did find one just for you Tom