The AC is broken on my 84 z28, I tried recharging it and it didn't fix it. I assume fixing it would get really expensive real fast. So I'm thinking I'll just take it all out, but before I make a decision I want to make sure I have my facts straight.

How much does the AC system weigh? I heard it was around 75-100 on other cars with small blocks.

How much power does the compressor use when its off? I assume there is still some drag from having it there.

Can I take off the black plastic housing on the firewall that has the evaporator core in it? Does that house the blower motor?

I have never owned a car with functioning AC and I have gotten used to driving with the windows down and keeping a spray bottle handy to mist myself. So functioning AC is only worth at most $75 to me. And the car will look so much better under the hood, especially since I have already removed all the smog junk.

 

Depends but I think my 89 system including condenser and all piping was only like 40 lbs. its not as heavy as most think. heaviest part is the compressor and that aint all that heavy.

 

Ok, did you also remove the evaporator core? I went out and looked on my car and the blower motor is in the same housing, so I'd have to find one from an AC delete car.

 

I have an AC delete box 50 + shipping

 

Sounds good to me. Do I need to PM you or what?

 

Wouldn't it be better to try to troubleshoot your AC problem through this forum or at least have the AC checked out to see what's wrong with it? Then you can make an informed decision on whether to fix it or tear it all out?

 

I tried that to a point. I have actually done more than just recharge it, I am fairly certain its the compressor, not 100% though. So rather than mess around with something I don't use I figured I would take it out and make my engine by look nicer and have less junk under the hood. Also I'm going to hold onto the parts, so if at some point down the road I get soft and want it back I can.

 

A/C Compressor, smog pump, bracket w/idler tensioner 31.75lbs

 

I've pulled a few units out and not accounting for the weight of the bucket with all brackets, bolts and fluids I came out to around 45-48 lbs. This is from at least 4 different cars that I've pulled all the A/C out of.

 

The drag from the non running compressor is negligible. It's just a bearing and freewheels without the magnetic clutch engaged. Most common cause of A/C inop is loss of charge or a faulty cycling switch. Could also be the compressor though. I do alot of AC work, especially this time of year.

However, you'll notice from my photo gallery that I have deleted the AC on my car. It interfered with the installation of my vacuum pump. I later removed the evaporator case and condenser. I was shocked to see how much grass and crud had accumulated between the condenser and radiator. Can't believe the engine wasn't running hot. Glad to be rid of it and the underhood looks so much cleaner with the AC delete box in place. Who need AC with T-tops anyway.

 

Exactly.

It holds a charge and the relay for the fan clutch works but the clutch isn't going. I would rather not go down that road...

 

Sounds like it could be a faulty cycling switch. I recently had that problem. That said, its yours..do what works for you. I'm here in Dallas right now and it was about 108 deg today. doesn't get even a little bit cool, even with the top down. As my 'vert is currently my daily driver, I like my AC.

 

AMEN to that!