This week in Barge News, some wins and some fails.
I am doing a story on installing A/C for Street Machine so i will just run through the basics here. Ryan and i whipped up the lines, mounted all the hardware for the last time and worked out what we needed for custom A/C line holders for the intake manifold that he will get laser cut.
I got the Vintage Air Gen IV Magnum evap from Rocket Industries for $1100. From Summit i got the dial controls, bulkhead connector, outlets and a TIG-welded compressor bracket to suit the Pontiac V8, for another $500.
I bought most of the other hardware, including condensor, Sanden compressor, drier, binary switch, and all the lines and fittings from Speedy Air Supplies in QLD. Under Ryan's advice i went with the Air-O-Crimp crimp fittings -
http://speedyairspares.com.au/catalo...ing-269-1.html
All up I was about $3k into it just in hardware. The labour is around another $2500 at mate's rates, as there is a solid week's work fitting everything. Plus the custom condensor/drier mount, Spal fan, and firewall block-off plate all powdercoated for a nice finish.
Ryan had test run all the lines to work out what fittings and lengths of hose i needed. Once we had that I ordered them from Speedy and they arrived a few days later.
There are 3 basic line sizes to run with this set-up - #6, #8, & #10. The lines themselves are super easy to connect. Once you have the length right just use crimping pliers to tighten the fittings up.
As the crimp fittings use smaller size hose they are easier to snake through tight spots, although fitting everything under the dash, from the back of the bulkhead plate to the evap, was a several-hour-long nightmare.
Sorry about the light in these pics. That is how the workshop looked at sunset!
The brakes turned into a saga. Only 2 of the original lines undid even with brand new crows feet spanners, the kit from Master Power is supposedly bolt-in but the hardlines do not fit, and the pedal linkage is way way way too long. Emails have been sent but i think it will be easier just to customise what i have... which, if i am honest, i expected because "bolt on kit" is a bigger misnomer than a "government for the people".
Also, my nice new finned Edelbrock vintage rocker covers do not fit - rocker clearance to my 1.65 ratio rockers is non-existant and the lip fouls the power steer bracket. I am pretty gutted about that so will try to come up with a solution like a spacer or something.
On the plus side, the side trim holes are all done, plus the door handle work has begun. The rear trim holes, front guard trim holes, and the custom push-button handles all need to be done. That will probably take Eric 10mins given he did the side holes and front guard rust repairs in a day.
Also, i am wondering if i SHOULD paint my car emerald green, or the original Aquamarine.
