Firebat

iTrader: (7)

Got A/C hoses made for a F-Body LT1 swap with the A/C compressor in the stock location, and for those of you who are unaware, I believe no one has done this before for a thirdgen or at least posted pics on here. Some have got LT1 vette lines successful made though. The lines are in very crammed area but with a cresent wrench got the lines tightened. Just got the lines in place this afternoon and snapped some pics and getting ready to test them out. I'm using thirdgen condenser but probably could have made it work with an aftermarket or 4th gen condensor as well. Using thirdgen wiring, this setup will not use the LT1 pcm.

Links for installed pics on first version:
http://s36.photobucket.com/albums/e2...Picture009.jpg
http://s36.photobucket.com/albums/e2...Picture008.jpg
http://s36.photobucket.com/albums/e2...Picture006.jpg
http://s36.photobucket.com/albums/e2...Picture007.jpg
http://s36.photobucket.com/albums/e2...Picture005.jpg
http://s36.photobucket.com/albums/e2...Picture004.jpg
http://s36.photobucket.com/albums/e2...Picture003.jpg
http://s36.photobucket.com/albums/e2...cture002-1.jpg
http://s36.photobucket.com/albums/e2...cture001-1.jpg

Pics of newer May 2011 version, Version 1.2:
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e2...2/102_0502.jpg
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e2...2/102_0501.jpg
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e2...2/102_0500.jpg
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e2...2/102_0503.jpg
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e2...2/102_0499.jpg
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e2...2/102_0498.jpg
http://i36.photobucket.com/albums/e2...2/102_0497.jpg

Update: I am making kits of this setup that include the hoses, o-rings, block, and seal washers that go between the block and compressor.



EDIT: Updated attached instructions/guidelines in both word format and adobe reader format

WhiteBlaze

iTrader: (1)

Looks great! I'm so happy someone was able to make this work! I would definitely be down for a set, but I would need to be in a month or so... I'm getting married in less than 3 weeks and money is tight! Any idea how much you would change for a set?

Firebat

iTrader: (7)

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TexasLT1

Fantastic. I'll e-mail you as soon as I'm ready to get a pair. Looks pretty similar to how I was planning on running mine.

Awesome-X

Looks awesome, I need to see if the LT-1 I'm getting has the AC compressor on it..

1981LT1

iTrader: (1)

Sweet! Since I am such a lazy a$$ I am definately down for a set of those. Once I get the new opti and swap my rear, I will definately be sending you some money.

keeslinger31

What sizes are the ends on the lt1 compressor and what size are the ends on the thirdgen condensor and drier im attempting to make my own but dont know the sizes.. i might just buy ones from you.

Firebat

iTrader: (7)

I'm looking into making the A/C controlled by the PCM. I thought it would be difficult since two sensors control the pcm but I think I have it figured out on how to bypass the evap temp sensor which isn't really needed - https://www.thirdgen.org/forums/ltx-...r-control.html

Thirim

Sweeet!!! I'll buy a set asap!! PM me details.
..What headers are you using? Just in case I may have to get the same if mine aren't quite the same and interfere.

Firebat

iTrader: (7)

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jokertwink

iTrader: (1)

hey firebat do u still make this kit im interesting. Will it fit 97 trans am compressor?

72vega

iTrader: (9)

also interested. still make them?

Firebat

iTrader: (7)

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Firebat

iTrader: (7)

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TexasLT1

Yes, but a/c is last on my list

robguitargod1

iTrader: (4)

Nice! AC is such a nice little luxury to have. Who/where/how did you have the lines made? I've an LS1 swap that'll be using a parallel-flow condenser so I'll need lines made. Also, where did the compressor mounted block come from? I need to poke around for the LS one.

Firebat

iTrader: (7)

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robguitargod1

iTrader: (4)

This tool looks pretty cool

http://www.nostalgicairparts.com/air...g-tool-278.php

Firebat

iTrader: (7)

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robguitargod1

iTrader: (4)

Awesome. What about hoses/fitting/seals? $100 isn't bad for your effort btw.

Firebat

iTrader: (7)

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robguitargod1

iTrader: (4)

Yeah wtf, I don't even see prices listed for the blocks. I'd need the 90 degree LS style:

http://docsblocks.com/proddetail.asp?prod=AA0443

Firebat

iTrader: (7)

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robguitargod1

iTrader: (4)

One thing I'm big on is ignoring companies with poor customer service. I'm gonna hunt for another source real quick.....

robguitargod1

iTrader: (4)

http://www.acsource.com/hoseblockverticaloring.aspx

Is one says won't work with LS style compressor. Why do you think that is?:

http://www.nostalgicairparts.com/air...tional-471.php

Firebat

iTrader: (7)

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dhirocz

iTrader: (2)

Im interested in a set if you have them still...

phoenix(brad)

I need a set! I just got a brand new compressor and the old one is already mocked up and in place. I just need the lines to make it work.

phoenix(brad)

Firebat where did you go?

drunck1

are you still making these?

Firebat

iTrader: (7)

Right now I've suspended making them.

Reasons/Issues:
1. I can't get all the parts. The main AC parts distributor I buy from is out-of-stock on some parts.

2. I no longer am going to deal with the main AC parts distributor that I buy from anyway. That distributor is Stark Mfg (formerly known as Docs Blocks). They have more AC parts/fittings/adapters selection than anyone else but poor customer service. They don't list their prices online anymore or allow you to purchase items off their website anymore. They have changed parts before and not noted it resulting in the hose kit not fitting/working. They have sent me the wrong parts multiple times and usually take weeks to a month to refund or exchange the parts. The last straw was that I payed for parts they said they had in stock but days later they stated they never had those parts in stock. They never refunded me for that payment or sent me any parts.

3. The hoses may not work with certain SBC 82-92 headers because it is such a small and cramped area on the backside of the compressor. Some headers come too close to the compressor and make it impossible to install the hoses the way they are. However, I have worked with everyone who had trouble. Either they have figured something out on their own or took a suggestion I made and were able to get there lines to work somehow in their car. So far, I have never had a set of hoses returned. Its just a possible issue that I discovered after making these.

4. I've become quite busy(looking for a better job, going to move soon, working on the truck, etc, etc.). Haven't had the time to try to find parts or the time to try/find new different parts to make a new design.

If I make any sets in the future, I will let everyone know. For now, sadly I am out-of-stock.

rickyzZ28

iTrader: (4)

Dang I was just going to PM you to see if you could make a set for my LS swap. The LT1 lines I got from you are working great and are a great deal at 100. Hope you decide to make them again in the future and good luck with the job search.

phoenix(brad)

Awww man that stinks.

Firebat

iTrader: (7)

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keeslinger31

Hey firebat so I finally charged my system yesterday and im curious how i should adjust the lowside pressure switch so my compressor cycles correctly. Right now its on most of the time the a/c is on and will kick off then 3 seconds later kick on for awhile. Also what pressure should the lowside read right now its at like 45-50 without the compressor on and goes to 35-40 when its kicked on? is it too full?

Firebat

iTrader: (7)

Unfortunately, I have my LT1 in storage. Been a long time since I hooked up a AC gauge to it also so don't remember.

I don't think the thirdgen low pressure switch is electronically adjustable.

I did just add R134A to my ford truck earlier this spring. I don't know if its an exact science. I usually just add the freon slowly until it starts cycling, feel the temperature of the air coming out, and then stop adding cans when the A/C air gets cool. As long as the air is cool, I don't worry about the exact pressures but maybe I should. When it cycles, the guage should swing quite a bit, maybe 10-20 psi difference. You might actually be low. I'd worry about being too high if the gauge is in the red when the a/c in on (over 45 psi). Hate for you to add another can and have it be too high though.

If you have another vehicle, hook up a/c gauge and see how it works. Should be similar.

keeslinger31

Good idea Ill hook it up to my truck. I just find it odd that the pressure gets lower on the lowside when the compressor kicks on. Kind of makes sense though since its taking fluid from there and compressing it to the highside.

And there is a screw on the thirdgen lowside switch when you remove the connector im guessing just an adjustment for what pressure the switch should turn on at but idk if turning it in will raise the pressure or lower it?

Firebat

iTrader: (7)

It should drop when A/C is turned on. I remember it doing that.

I wouldn't worry too much about trying to adjust the switch, should just need more or less fluid.

keeslinger31

Alright then cool. Btw your lines work perfect Blows colder than it has in 5 years lol

phoenix(brad)

Firebat you are my only hope.

drunck1

any luck on this? I know cost of parts are up and so forth so what would be the new price 120-150? Even at that im sure many people would pay the price instead of bearing the heat.

Firebat

iTrader: (7)

I no longer make these. I have sold off my leftover parts and a/c crimping tool. Sorry. It was a great experience working with fellow LT1 swappers from TGO.

rfoster23g

hotrodf1

Bringing this back up from the dead . . .

I have a LT1/T56 swapped 91, and just about tired of no AC. Is there a writeup somewhere about what all needs to be done to put AC back in?

I know about some issues with compressor fitment to the subframe and I guess also the engine mount.

But the hoses sound like perhaps a bigger issue?

Is anyone making custom hoses like the OP?

LT1/TA

Here is a custom set up with the compressor in the stock location.
https://www.thirdgen.org/forums/ltx-...-firehawk.html
Here is mine.
https://www.thirdgen.org/forums/ltx-...p-mount-c.html

LT1/TA

hotrodf1

Whoa that's a cool idea. . .

I guess the other option is the Corvette drive that moves the alt and PS and A/C over to the driver side. Which would make more room for a single 76mm on the passenger side.

Seems like it's tough to have both A/C and turbo setup. Hmmm....