AC Condenser Question

[Toad455]

I have a 78 C10 that is still apart getting restored and I'm looking for an AC Condenser that is parallel flow, not tube and fin like the original, that has the inlet and outlet on the passenger side instead of driver side like original. I see a lot of aftermarket but has anyone already done this and know a good part number? I'm going with LS engine and using the factory truck LS compressor with a bracket kit from ICT Billet to mount it high instead of down next to the frame, so I don't want the lines running over the radiator support. I prefer a factory condenser from something so I can get replacement if needed at local parts store but aftermarket from internet is ok if that's all I can come up with. Any ideas?

 

[75gmck25]

I used an aftermarket parallel flow condenser when I converted my A/C, and in hindsight I’m not sure it was really needed. The stock condenser is quite large and the cab of the truck is quite small, so I think it would have been fine with a stock condenser that was in good shape. YMMV

Just make sure you use a good fan setup. Engine-driven with metal fan, shroud and severe duty clutch cools really well. For electric, ignore the claims from aftermarket fan vendors and get an OEM electric setup like the ones used for Ford Taurus or Windstar.

 

[legopnuematic]

Look at UAC’s online catalog/application guide.

Search non-application condenser, it lets you choose parallel flow, tube and fin, or serpentine. Find one that matches dimensionally and with your desired connections.

 

[Toad455]

I used an aftermarket parallel flow condenser when I converted my A/C, and in hindsight I’m not sure it was really needed. The stock condenser is quite large and the cab of the truck is quite small, so I think it would have been fine with a stock condenser that was in good shape. YMMV

Just make sure you use a good fan setup. Engine-driven with metal fan, shroud and severe duty clutch cools really well. For electric, ignore the claims from aftermarket fan vendors and get an OEM electric setup like the ones used for Ford Taurus or Windstar.

Thanks, the oem fan is a good idea. I've been through that before on hot rods, I had a large one from a 97 Lincoln in my 86 Cutlass with 455 and NEVER ran hot, even above 90 outside and at red lights, and I didn't have a belt driven fan.

 

[Toad455]

Look at UAC’s online catalog/application guide.

Search non-application condenser, it lets you choose parallel flow, tube and fin, or serpentine. Find one that matches dimensionally and with your desired connections.

I'll check UAC, thanks.

 

[Bextreme04]

A stock 80's Squarebody replacement condensor will be parallel flow and have the lines on the passenger side. A GMT-400 condensor will also do the same thing and is exactly the same size as the factory 74-80 condensor size. You might have to fab some bracketry to fit it, but the GMT-400 parts would allow factory junkyard parts for replacement or fairly cheap replacement parts from any big box auto parts store. I have a 97 K2500 454 radiator currently retrofitted on mine and am planning on using the 97 K2500 condensor as well.

 

[Toad455]

Thanks, I looked at 1997 condenser on Rockauto, dimensions look good.

 

[BadBowtie]

Seems like I heard a 1994 Silverado C1500 works, but I never tried to use one.