desertdatsuns.net

Had a nice morning at the Pavilions show yesterday.

Nice pics. Eventually I'll have more time to join you guys.

We'll look forward to that Jeff.

Randy, do you guys run A/C in your Z cars? If so, are they original hardware converted to R134a or do you run more modern components? My '78 had factory A/C at one point, but I haven't had a compressor on it in 30+ years. The condenser is still there as are the lines and wiring. I don't know if the late 70's compressors are worth using, or if I should get a more modern Sanden and go from there. It's too hot these days to drive my Z to work with no A/C, but I'm hoping to have something before next summer.

I do, converted to 134a from the day I got it on the road, and mine is all stock. I have no idea how my stock compressor keeps chugging, but it does. I've gone through a compressor clutch but never the compressor itself. (I got my 260Z in fall 2008, running with a turbo swap in March of 2009) I use Ester Oil and Pogden told me on Saturday that he has a source for the weird Nissan expansion valve's o-ring (that was a weird transition... Old fart "stream of thought").

The 240 owners (like Randy) have to buy aftermarket. I think Duffman has a Vintage Aire or something similar in his Series One.

Having said that, I have stock compressors, and 280ZX compressors, and a Sanden waiting in the wings for when this one finally goes. (I'm a collector of all things A/C being an Idaho boy never-gotten-used-to-this-damn-heat)

Personally I would recommend a Sanden compressor with new hoses made to mate to all the other stock equipment. I'm kind of a fan of the stock A/C setup, even with the weird expansion valve. There are a plethora of hose shops in town. Get a new Receiver/Dryer and flush the mineral oil with A/C cleaner/flush or use Ester Oil rather than PAG just in case. The stock condenser does well with 134a - neither my Son nor I have had reason to look for a larger condenser. There's a metal screen (filter) in the liquid line bulkhead fitting by the master cylinder. You should crack the flare fitting and check the screen if that's still intact just to make sure it's clean - it protects the expansion valve.

Then of course you need the KIA blower upgrade and one of Ultra Heaven's center ducts.

Chuck, so Lucas is branding his center duct Ultra Heaven? Have to see what he has for the 240Z option!

Yes, as Chuck says, I have an aftermarket system, Hot Rod Air (no longer around), similar to Vintage Air. Cold air, but could use better air flow!

Had a factory set up on my Z when I bought it 25 years ago but it didn't work so I ended up removing it. I'd consider a modern replacement, but honestly I just don't drive it long distances during hot weather, so I'm not sure for me it would be worth it.

Thanks guys. Once I get closer to tackling the A/C, I'll bug you again for specifics.

My 75 had factory air. I converted to 134a and it was fine. Done that with several cars and the only thing I notice is that it might take a mile or so more driving to get cold.

I'm going back with "Sanden style" setup from nostalgic AC.