Removing AC unit - Is there a big hole to fill?

[Russtypickle]

Hi All,

I've got a Blazer with factory AC but it was disconnected ages ago and nothing on it works. My question for those who have done it...

Is there a large hole left in the fire wall after the condenser is removed? Do I need a new fan housing? I'd love to remove it while the fender is off but I'm worried I'd be opening another can of worms.

You must be registered for see images attach

 

[Tank6x2]

You’ll need a housing without AC, hole remains the same but until you get the heater core housing assembly without AC - it’s a can of worms. I’ve been in progress of replacing firewall as my rain tray got so corroded it began to leak on the interior- AC was non repairable due to Environmental BS, so Vintage air here we come

 

[edgephoto]

Why not fix the A/C?

 

[Tank6x2]

Why not fix the A/C?

Can you guys still recharge these in the USA?

 

[Ricko1966]

Can you guys still recharge these in the USA?

Yes, can you not in Canada?

 

[Rustisbest]

I used this so I could keep heat/defroster. Used same heater core and blower motor. Any wires not needed for the blower i cut and taped back in the harness.

1973 to 90 GM & GMC Truck AC Delete Cover for C/K Series, Suburban, Jimmy, Blazer and more

This is a 1973 to 1990 GM and GMC Truck AC Delete Cover that fits all C/K Series, Blazer, Surburban, and other GM & GMC Trucks. it is designed to remove your original AC system and at the same time maintain the used of the heater and defrost.

www.acdelete.com

You must be registered for see images attach

 

[Tank6x2]

Yes, can you not in Canada?

Gawd No they outlawed the refrigerant for anything other than “industrial”

 

[Ricko1966]

Gawd No they outlawed the refrigerant for anything other than “industrial”

You can't get r134? I hate to say it I'd be tempted to use propane. I generally consider flammable refrigerant a no no,but if you have no other choice. Whadda ya do.

 

[edgephoto]

R12 is no longer sold here but R134a is a drop in replacement.

Google says you can still buy R134a in Canada but you need a license. Technically you need one too in the USA unless you buy the small cans.

Looks like R12a is available in Canada over the counter. The worst case is you replace everything then pay a shop to vacuum the system, check for leaks then recharge with R134a or R12a. Make sure to replace the accumulator but do that last. The desiccant is in the accumulator and you do not want it absorbing moisture from the atmosphere.

Lots of people here that are willing to guide you through. Nothing like A/C on a hot day. It will take as much effort to remove it as it would to get it working. The only moving part is the compressor.

 

[Ricko1966]

You can make your own vacuum pump from an old refrigerator compressor.

 

[edgephoto]

Some parts stores loan out tools. You should check with them. Then you can vacuum test your system.

Understand that when you pull a vacuum on the A/C system it is not to suck out dirt. It is to boil off any moisture in the system before recharging.

 

[Edelbrock]

Ya, A/C is really complicated if you have never worked on it before, but its actually really simple. Lot of people will help you with info and advice. I would keep the A/C in place for sure. We can help you get it recharged and everything.

 

[Russtypickle]

Thanks Rustisbest for the link, that's exactly what I was looking for. Thanks to everyone else for the idea of keeping the AC. Personally I'll be using the Blazer for running around in Spring/Summer/fall with the top off so it's going to be dry but likely not crazy hot (we're usually in the low to mid 20 Celsius range). However, there's logic in keeping it too. I like the idea of having less in the engine bay (next project) and don't really need the AC so I think I'll still remove it and install one of the delete kits. Thanks again All!

 

[Tank6x2]

You can't get r134? I hate to say it I'd be tempted to use propane. I generally consider flammable refrigerant a no no,but if you have no other choice. Whadda ya do.

Vintage air update

 

[Ricko1966]

Vintage air update

What does it use for refridgerant?