Pros and Cons of AC in 71 Charger

[RockyPat]

Pro: Cool air
Con: Clutter under the hood.
Question: you will go with an increased capacity radiator too?

Me: Too much hassle. The pro doesn't outweigh the con. Also, I don't like air conditioning systems in old cars.

Thanks for your comment. You offer some very good points. I plan on going with a heavy duty radiator. My uncle says the same thing about AC systems being too much clutter.

 

[RockyPat]

I am in South Carolina so AC is a must in my cars. Both are original AC cars so restoring the interior parts and using all aftermarket under the hood is how I did it. Plenty of room to work with the small compressors.

Sounds like an impressive car you got there. I wish I could go all aftermarket, but I do not have the budget for it. Good to know that you think AC's are a must for a hot environment. Thank you

 

[RockyPat]

I put ac in my 71 Charger non factory ac car. Mine is a small block but I would not hesitate in doing it again. The inside looks like factory ac but that's it. I used vintage air.

Nice! I did not know that vintage air made a system for our 71 Chargers. Good to know if I ever decide on aftermarket in the future. Thanks for the reply.

 

[440 PHIXX]

Back then AC was never an option on the high end super cars, as they called them. RPM and HP rob were the main reasons.

If I were to add it, I’d go with the modern compact R134 systems out there.

 

[RockyPat]

Factory RV2 system with 134a. Blows 45 degrees.

Sure helps combat the stifling 99% humidity in FL.

Stock 318 in a 3700# car can barely feel it, but does drag the RPMs down.
I'm working on adding a compensation solenoid.

Good move to get all the AC pulleys and brackets together, as matching pulleys from different years and AC/no AC cars is called "pulley hell".

1980's trucks and 5th avenue's had sanden compressors and mounts.

Thanks for the helpful reply. I am hoping that my 440 will have enough power to combat the AC system working. I agree about the pulleys and brackets. It can be very challenging to source all of those pieces separately.

 

[RockyPat]

I am in Georgia, but a/c isn't a must have for me. My '70 Charger 383, 4 speed didn't come from the factory with a/c of course, but it had dealership-installed a/c. I removed the knee-capping unit from under the dash along with all the a/c crap in the engine bay. It isn't going back in the car. I still have the removed a/c stuff...taking up space in my garage.

Oh yeah, my Charger has factory power windows. That's the only convenience I need.

Nice story! I am glad that you have found a setup that satisfies your needs! Lol

 

[RockyPat]

Back then AC was never an option on the high end super cars, as they called them. RPM and HP rob were the main reasons.

If I were to add it, I’d go with the modern compact R134 systems out there.

Thank you for the comment. I will have to look into a modern system and see how much they cost.