Non AC vs AC Cab Differences

Kilian · Dec 28, 2022

If there's already a topic thread somewhere, please let me know, but I'm wondering what differences there might be in the kick panel vent area between non-AC and AC cabs from 81-87. I know that the firewall is different for AC, and that how the vents work in the kick panel area are different, but are there actual structural/hole differences in the cabs themselves? If so, photos would be helpful. Thanks for the help.

TotalyHucked · Dec 28, 2022

The only real difference I can think of besides the firewall is the driver's kick panel has a hole for a vent in the Non-AC cabs and is solid in an AC cab. The AC cabs only had a flapper on the passenger side in the same location as a Non-AC vent would go, there's not even a provision on the driver's side for one.

TotalyHucked · Dec 28, 2022

Here's some pictures of the driver's side to show what I mean. Pass side gets the hole no matter what, non-AC trucks get the manual vent flapper and AC trucks get the vacuum operated fresh air pod.

First pic is an '85 custom deluxe with AC, no hole at all or even a dimple for one.

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Second is a '79 non-AC truck

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Kilian · Dec 28, 2022

Excellent info. Thanks for the pictures.

mrKs83diesel · Jan 2, 2023

looking for kick panel set with vents on both sides for non-ac 83. In the catalog seems like there’s only sets for vents on the passenger side, anybody know of any available? Glad I found the thread I was just trying to figure this out last night

AuroraGirl · Jan 2, 2023

mrKs83diesel said:
looking for kick panel set with vents on both sides for non-ac 83. In the catalog seems like there’s only sets for vents on the passenger side, anybody know of any available? Glad I found the thread I was just trying to figure this out last night

I would think the unit is the same as the earlier trucks, but i dont know for certain
They arent something people are rushing to put in since a lot of trucks go AC when being made nice, and the manual vent is hard to break if its not been abused, so they can often be reused or painted. Is yours broke?

mrKs83diesel · Jan 2, 2023

Vent works well, was just looking for new panels, both with vents. theyre pretty beat and have been cut for speakers

Ken B · Jan 2, 2023

I think usa1 has non ac panels

mrKs83diesel · Jan 3, 2023

Thanks ill check it out

MrHorsepowerLSx · Jan 3, 2023

Here is my firewall, I have an AC cab

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Non AC vs AC Cab Differences

Kilian

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TotalyHucked

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TotalyHucked

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Kilian

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mrKs83diesel

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AuroraGirl

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Ken B

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