'69 AC Parts - Zinc Plating

[Pat K.]

Hi,

I'm sending my POA valve and expansion valve to Classic Auto Air to be tested/rebuilt for my '69. I realize the expansion valve cannot be rebuilt if it's bad. They offer zinc plating of these parts.

Is that something that should be done as part of the restoration process or just light cleaning?

Thanks,

Pat

[Dick W.]

Re: '69 AC Parts - Zinc Plating

Pat, if you are restoring the rest of your engine compartment, if you do not plate the valve you will regret it. In you mind it will always stand out The cost is minimal

[Larry M.]

Re: '69 AC Parts - Zinc Plating

Pat:

This part sweats a lot when the AC system is operating. Based on this, I would opt for the plating, knowing I might lose a point or two "originality" deduction based on "finish".

If you leave raw/slightly rusted, you will lose some "condition" points....although the judges are typically more lenient when judging this category.

I believe that the originals were zinc or cad plated, but had a heat affected band or zone around the middle flange where the halves were welded together. They applied a "cold zinc" type coating in this area. You could try to duplicate this appearance on your rebuilt one if you really wanted to make it more like the original.

Larry

[Jack H.]

Re: '69 AC Parts - Zinc Plating

Look closely at your original before you decide. You just might be trading originality points for condition points!

If memory serves, factory original parts were ink stamped with identifying marks including, possibly, a date coding sequence. If I'm right, ask the supplier how he will duplicate the factory original marks after the plating process...

If he doesn't re-ink stamp, then you're possibly giving up 40% of your original points (Date and Configuration) to garner extra condition points! These decisions (refurbish or not) can often wind up putting you on the horns of a dilema...

[Larry M.]

Re: '69 AC Parts - Zinc Plating

If I recall correctly, some or most of the ink-stamp codes are hidden under the wide POA valve attaching band (to evaporator case). However, there is no reason you couldn't make your own stamp(s). Shouldn't cost too much. NOS examples with this stamping frequently show up on E-bay. Just search under "POA valve" for examples.

I don't think Classic Auto Air reproduces these ink stamps. At least I have never seen on any of their rebuilds. However, you can ask.

Larry

[Pat K.]

Re: '69 AC Parts - Zinc Plating

Look closely at your original before you decide. You just might be trading originality points for condition points!

If memory serves, factory original parts were ink stamped with identifying marks including, possibly, a date coding sequence. If I'm right, ask the supplier how he will duplicate the factory original marks after the plating process...

If he doesn't re-ink stamp, then you're possibly giving up 40% of your original points (Date and Configuration) to garner extra condition points! These decisions (refurbish or not) can often wind up putting you on the horns of a dilema...

I plan on removing the parts Wed/Thur this week and will assess what I have.

I checked Classic's catalog and there's no mention of a re-stamp service. I'm assuming if they had it, they would advertise it and charge for it, but I will definitely ask.

Thanks for all the responses,

Pat

[Erv M.]

Re: '69 AC Parts - Zinc Plating

What is the GM part number for a 69 POA valve?

[Larry M.]

Re: '69 AC Parts - Zinc Plating

What is the GM part number for a 69 POA valve?

Erv:

Should be Delco #15-51 and GM #5910593. These may be the SERVICE numbers as opposed to the 1969 PRODUCTION numbers, but they are the only ones available/being sold.

There are also others that will fit, but orientation of the side fittings is slightly different. (Three different orientations in all). I can provide these numbers if you want. They are generally less expensive $$ and are more readily available.

Larry

[Erv M.]

Re: '69 AC Parts - Zinc Plating

Larry,

Is there a good vendor that has these available. I hate shopping ebay because you never really know what your getting and the relationship is over after they cash your check.