A/C compressor help needed immediately

[dadstoy]

Hi all,

I'm really in a bind with my AC compressor on my '81 chassis with 454. The compressor needs to be changed and it seems that GM used a compressor/clutch configuration that was build for some obscure Pontiac. There is only six of these available in the country and have to come out of Texas. I'm screwed on time now. I need an immediate solution. I know some of you have changed your compressors and I'm wondering if you used a different compressor that will fit and work . HELP! LOL

Any advice would be very appreciated!

Thanks
Dean



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[Gregsch]

I will eventually need to replace my compressor as well. I have done a little research in the past and found that there are several companys that specialize in A/C systems for older vehicles. Try a google search on vintage air. What I found was that newer style compressors can be used on the older vehicles. They are smaller , lighter and more efficient.

[cwf]

Call AB&T (512) 388-1977
Ask for Danny or Ronny. They will help if at all possible.

[Smartstream]

Your compressor is a GM Frigidaire A-6. Very common available with several different pulley diameters and clutch voltages. Here is an article from Hemming's. Frigidaire A-6 Air-Conditioning Compressor | Hemmings Motor News

You can get rebuilt units over the counter just about anywhere, just come as close as you can on pulley size.

[dadstoy]

Thanks everyone! This is what we have discovered at this point. The original A6 compressor on my '82 ('81 chassis) had a clutch/ pulley assemble with the pulley "backwards" or closer to the compressor then the very readily available A6 rebuilds. The rebuilds have the pulley located closer to the radiator then the old one.

Some warehouse in Texas has 6 of the correct ones, I'm out of time and don't want one overnighted for an extra $300!

Solution is we are using a newly rebuilt A6 compressor and swapping the clutch/pulley assembly from the old compressor.

Also replacing the dryer and had a custom high pressure side hose made.

The system was already running R134a instead of the R12.

Assembly is in progress...

Photo is of original compressor and clutch/pulley assembly




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[J. Morgan]

Way to adapt, improvise, and overcome!!

That is the America I know and love.

P.S. You might shop around for the right clutch and keep it handy no that the current time crunch is past.

[dadstoy]

Well it was an expensive bill, but all is back together and seems to be functioning well. The real test will be this weekend as we head out to Nevada for Burning Man!


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[msmcv51]

I love the way this forum works. People helping people.