Since the molded insulation is no longer available and since the new 1/2" thick version won't fit my application (note the indentations in the OE insulation), I threw caution to the wind and decided to attempt a clean-up. I used Simple Green on a towel and softly wiped in the direction of the insulation's weave. I did that several times, then rinsed the towel with clean water and went over it again. Big improvement, I think. Next? I purchased some adhesive-backed Neoprene rubber (1/16") that will cover the hole made by the air-cleaner nut.

Before and after pics.

JamesC

 

Nice improvement.

 

It's always a leaking AC compressor that throws refer oil up there.

Looks good.

 

 

Yep. Long repaired.

Thanks!

JamesC

 

I have been using plasti-dip with great success on my last couple resto's. Leaves the satin sheen of the original, and will fill in the defects from belt abrasion, or else. You can kinda mat the fibers how they need to lay, then spray.

 

Excellent!

 

Mine has leaked from day number as well as all the 3rd gens I've owned. The exception being the '89 'vert I just got.

 

Most of the GM compressors that followed after the old A6 haven't been very good. Just my opinion....

 

Pics?

JamesC

 

From my 1991 Z28 Convertible

Before:



After: 3 cans if I remember correctly


From my Z03 Z28 Convertible:

Before:



After:


Not perfect, but I'd rather have this than the aftermarket replacement.

 

An interesting idea...

 

Wow, didn't know you couldn't get these from the dealerships any more! I bought a new one for my 92 GTA back in 2002 from my Pontiac dealership and it was a perfect identical match for the original. Sadly my STB has worn into it in a couple spots since then. Crap.

 

Is this the rubber coating version or something else? Part number or some other identifier?

JamesC

 

Just the black Plasti-dip in the aerosol can. Should be stocked pretty deep in the auto parts stores or home improvement stored. Most other aerosol paint companies (duplicolor & Rustoleum etc) have their own versions which I think would probably work just fine as well.

 

Here's what I ended up with, though I'm unsure if I'm totally lovin' it. I plugged the hole with insulation then used 1/16 inch thick Neoprene self-adhesive sheet to cover the hole on both sides. The naked hood doesn't look too bad, so at some point I might just jerk it altogether and wait for a proper repo.

JamesC

 

Thanks. A coat of two might have evened the look up a bit.

JamesC

 

Guys,
Did all Gen3's come with that hood pad? My is missing and it almost appears like it did not have one installed to begin with.
All I have on my hood is that ac compressor stripe...
Thx,

 

I think mine is past redemption, I like the look without it but I figure it's probably going to need a lot of clean up under the pad if I remove it. I was gifted the one insulation holder i'm missing so I guess I will just install it the next time I have the hood up.

 

Yes.

 

FWIW The Factory Shop Manual for my 1979 Trans Am, SPECIFICALLY states some oil leakage from the front seal, on the A6 compressor is NORMAL. IT says only replace for a Freon leak.

 

Thanks, need to add that to the list now too!