Adding AC...Followup

[Kilian]

I had posted a question about aftermarket AC kits for my 83 GMC C2500. I've got a lead on an 87 parts truck with AC. How hard of a conversion is it to put AC in a non-AC cab? Anyone here done that already and have some pointers? Thanks.

 

[EvilGenius]

I haven't done it, but have read some of the threads talking about it. The firewall is different between an A/C cab and a non-A/C cab. Around the heater box area is where it is different. If you are unable to cut out the donor firewall section, a good strategy is to take some cardboard and cut it to match so you can make a metal copy later.

End of the day though you will need access to a welder and a grinder. You might be able to get by with rivets to attach the new piece if you don't have a welder.

If you don't want to cut up the firewall the only other option is Vintage Air, an aftermarket system. I'm not sure how it interfaces with the existing ventilation system but I'm fairly confident you don't have to modify the firewall much if at all to install it.

 

[bucket]

There's other companies besides Vintage Air.

 

[Lostranger]

Thanks for jogging my thinking. My 87 R30 never had air. I have several parts trucks with air, so I think I might give this a shot.

 

[rpcraft]

From what I know adding one of the aftermarket systems is actually easier than trying to add a stock system to a non air truck. It cuts down on the parts needed to do the conversion in the cab area, but to be fair it might be a couple of holes need to be drilled and with the motor in, plus limited access under the dash, that might make it somewhat challenging but I do not know firsthand. You might search around on youtube some and see. i know there are a few done by guys who previously had air but I've not looked for a system install for a non air truck.

 

[Lostranger]

I intend to do this conversion with factory parts from an 89 3500 van. I’m pulling the serpentine conversion parts from the van anyway, and the AC compressor is new. Seems like a good place to start. I’ll post a build thread when I can make time to start. My 87 R30 NEEDS AC.