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So which AC condenser is the best?

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Old Nov 3, 2010 | 08:06 PM
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So which AC condenser is the best?

I'm needing to replace my radiator and AC condenser due to an accident. I have been off the forum for awhile and a search didn't reveal much. I already bought an NOS radiator.

What's the general consensus here on what the best performing direct replacement AC condenser is? Is there a good parallel condenser I can buy that will be direct fit? Any links or part numbers would be great, I need to order it ASAP.

Thanks!

Alex
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Old Nov 4, 2010 | 10:11 PM
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Re: So which AC condenser is the best?

Parallel flow condenser isn't a direct fit. It's close, but not a drop in.

Proliance makes a direct fit 6 mm condenser that should out perform the original tube & fin condenser. Should make connecting the lines a simple deal.
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Old Nov 4, 2010 | 10:46 PM
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Re: So which AC condenser is the best?

Originally Posted by Reid Fleming
Parallel flow condenser isn't a direct fit. It's close, but not a drop in.

Proliance makes a direct fit 6 mm condenser that should out perform the original tube & fin condenser. Should make connecting the lines a simple deal.
Perfect, thank you!

I'll do a Google search to try and find it.

EDIT: Found it for only $68, just ordered with a new receiver/dryer too, thanks!

Thanks!

Alex

Last edited by 92GTA; Nov 8, 2010 at 08:18 AM.
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Old Nov 15, 2010 | 11:01 PM
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Re: So which AC condenser is the best?

link to the $68 unit please. when i was looking at them i could only find it for around $100. also let us know if you notice any better performance out of it.
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Old Nov 16, 2010 | 07:47 PM
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Re: So which AC condenser is the best?

Well I would but I just emailed them for an exchange or refund. The Proliance unit seems to have a smaller diameter lower fitting and won't work. The original has both fittings the same diameter as the top fitting.

I'll post back what happens. Totally blows to, this sets me back at least 2 weeks on getting my GTA back on the road
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Old Nov 17, 2010 | 01:38 PM
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Re: So which AC condenser is the best?

Ok, turns out it was my fault. His site only listed 89-91 and my car being a 92 I just ordered the unit for the 91. Big mistake

It turns out that 1992 is it's own special part different than 1991 and previous. He doesn't have the correct one to exchange for so I am on my own.

QuickStyle, I see you are local and have a 1991. I'll sell you my brand new unit for the $68 I paid and you get free shipping lol. It would cost me half that to ship it back for refund
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Old Nov 19, 2010 | 08:59 AM
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Car: Met. Silver 85 IROC/Sold
Engine: 350 HO Deluxe (350ci/330hp)
Transmission: T-5 (Non-WC)
Axle/Gears: Limited Slip 3.23's
Re: So which AC condenser is the best?

I took interest in this thread because I too am looking for a better replacement for my 85. According to my Parts/Illustration Cat, 1985 through 91 have the following part numbers:

85 - 3057627
86-87 - 3058534
88-89 - 3058534
90 - 52451266
91 - 52451266

Since I've swapped in a latter serp system with AC on my 85, I was somewhat surprised to see various part numbers--since I experienced no fitment issues.

I went to RockAuto and found that Spectra condensers, 85 through 91, all carrry the same part number, 73231 (92 was 74426, BTW). My conclusion is that although Proliance advertises their replacement as an 86-91 fit, it should bolt up to an 85 as well.

SPECTRA A/C CONDENSER -- 26.69 x 15.75 in. core size, 1 in. thickness; 6 mm construction; Male O-ring inlet and outlet connection.... 1985-1991: All Submodels; All Engines....

The Proliance measures as follows: 26.687 X 15.75 X 1.000. 6mm. Fittings are -8 AN.

At any rate, Reid, what in your opinion makes the Proliance a better performance choice?

JamesC

Last edited by JamesC; Nov 19, 2010 at 09:39 AM.
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Old Nov 20, 2010 | 12:09 AM
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Re: So which AC condenser is the best?

Originally Posted by JamesC
SPECTRA A/C CONDENSER -- 26.69 x 15.75 in. core size, 1 in. thickness; 6 mm construction; Male O-ring inlet and outlet connection.... 1985-1991: All Submodels; All Engines....

The Proliance measures as follows: 26.687 X 15.75 X 1.000. 6mm. Fittings are -8 AN.

At any rate, Reid, what in your opinion makes the Proliance a better performance choice?

JamesC
As far as Spectra vs Proliance vs stock, they should both achieve the same performance improvement over stock. The 6 mm design is simply a better design compared to the tube & fin design of old.

Spectra vs Proliance, I would say go with whatever is cheapest. Last time I looked (which was awhile ago), I never saw Spectra had 6 mm design. However, if they do now, it should be good.
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Old Jun 7, 2015 | 07:30 AM
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Re: So which AC condenser is the best?

Check these sites for a proper condenser for a 1992 F body.http://www.classicindustries.com/pro...rts/g8446.html and http://www.classicindustries.com/pro...ts/ac1807.html
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Old Feb 26, 2019 | 06:24 AM
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Car: 1987 IROC
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Axle/Gears: BW 9 Bolt 3.27
Re: So which AC condenser is the best?

Has anyone used the parallel flow condenser part number 11-215P from Original Air? They are located in FL. Parts are locally manufactured and pressure tested, and are quoted as being a true parallel flow design and direct fit. Price is $279 + shipping, so definitely more than the Spectra and other parts available at Autozone, etc. I'm finally getting my AC hooked up in my LS2/T56 transplant. Thanks.

https://originalair.com/86-91-camaro...-parallel-flow
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Old May 21, 2019 | 07:52 AM
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Re: So which AC condenser is the best?

Originally Posted by krayende
Has anyone used the parallel flow condenser part number 11-215P from Original Air? They are located in FL. Parts are locally manufactured and pressure tested, and are quoted as being a true parallel flow design and direct fit. Price is $279 + shipping, so definitely more than the Spectra and other parts available at Autozone, etc. I'm finally getting my AC hooked up in my LS2/T56 transplant. Thanks.

https://originalair.com/86-91-camaro...-parallel-flow
I'm also wondering if anyone has installed this? The price seems high but would be nice to bolt right in.
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Old May 21, 2019 | 08:01 AM
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Re: So which AC condenser is the best?

..

Last edited by Firebat; May 21, 2019 at 08:16 AM.
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Old May 21, 2019 | 08:48 AM
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From: Harford County, MD
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Axle/Gears: BW 9 Bolt 3.27
Re: So which AC condenser is the best?

I purchased both the condenser and evaporator. Had significant fitment problems with both. Support from the company was good, but it’s taking months to get the correct parts. Condenser brackets had to be drilled out and reversed front to back. Also had to replace the fasteners that support the tubes - their fastener tails hit my radiator hard. After I made the mods on the second condenser the fit was good - brackets are a slight different shape into the rubber pieces on the core support, but it works. Evaporator has been a nightmare. Lines do not match the factory at all, accumulator hit the strut tower and would not fit between the upper and lower lines. My third will be here tomorrow. This last time, I sent my factory original part for them to recreate. Wish me luck tomorrow.....
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