Air Conditioner not cooling

[theterrells]

The air conditioner fan in my '71 Safari Twin runs on low and high, from the sound the compressor comes on, but the air is barely cool. Could this be as simple as being low on freon?

I've heard that the rv air conditioners are sealed and freon can't be added.

Any ideas or suggestions?

[overlander64]

Greetings theterrells!

Originally Posted by theterrells

The air conditioner fan in my '71 Safari Twin runs on low and high, from the sound the compressor comes on, but the air is barely cool. Could this be as simple as being low on freon?

I've heard that the rv air conditioners are sealed and freon can't be added.

Any ideas or suggestions?

If your air conditioner is the original Armstrong Bay Breeze or similar Armstrong model, it is serviceable and nearly every component is either rebuildable or can be replaced. This is a unique feature of the Armstrong air conditioners originally intalled in Vintage Airstreams. The challenge is usually finding someone who is willing to perform the service as most RV Techs just shake their heads and tell you the unit is not repairable due to its age. I learned too late too ignore the typical RV Tech response and allowed my Armstrong to be replaced that likely just needed two components and a recharge. Try searching for a commercial refrigeration technician who might be willing to service your Armstrong.

Good luck with your investigation!

Kevin

[AIR-Quarius]

Actually thats what I need to do with mine. Is to have it re built.

[jmpratt]

It is probably low on refrigerant. Call a local A/C service company and they can work on it. Automotive A/C guys don't seem to really know much about A/C systems. Also, that unit has R-22 which most auto guys don't have.

-Jason

[fourcatos]

I am a commercial A/C tech and if it is the older unit I would repair it just for the originallity of it. If it is a newer unit with more than 10 years of age, get a new one. The newer units are very cheaply made, I probably do not need to state that. Get a home or comercial tech if you go the repair route, an auto guy will probably be lost.
I wish you lived a little bit closer than Mobile.

[theterrells]

How secure is the top of an AS? On our old box trailer we would lay some 1/2inch plywood on before getting on top. Can I just climb around on the top of the Airstream?

[sandlapper]

Originally Posted by theterrells

How secure is the top of an AS? On our old box trailer we would lay some 1/2inch plywood on before getting on top. Can I just climb around on the top of the Airstream?

Stand on the rivet lines(the ribs). Don't think I would put down any plywood up there. Good luck, and don't fall off. Wear some tennis shoes.
John

[sandlapper]

....and don't climb up on the end caps. Put the ladder against the awning. And pad the ladder.

[fourcatos]

Watch utube video on airstream ac replacement. DIY network did a lot of good shows on airstreams