Anyone install Hot Rod Air in a C1?

[Bob S.]

I am attempting to install Hot Rod Air's air conditioning package in my '59. The problem is the water pump pulley. I purchased the GM #3995642 two groove pulley as per the instructions but when I install it on the original 493 water pump there is interference. I called Hot Rod Air and they say they have never had a problem reported and asked if I were using a stock water pump. I am.
Has anyone out there installed this air conditioner package and if so what did you do about the pulley? Looking in the Corvette parts catalog, this pulley was used on the 68-70 Corvettes (exec 454). Was there a change in water pump design to make clearance for the two groove pulley? Will this newer water pump work on my '59 283?
Any words of wisdom would be greatly apreciated.
Sully

[Michael M.]

Re: Anyone install Hot Rod Air in a C1?

I can't speak specifically to Hot Rod Air, but how much interference are you getting with the water pump pulley? I know that you can buy a reinforcement spacer that goes between the water pump hub and the pulley which may give you the added clearance you require. The reinforcement spacer is stamped steel and so is not thick but rather thin. You may be able to stack a couple of these reinforcement spacers if necessary, but then you need to check belt alignment, etc.

[Bob S.]

Re: Anyone install Hot Rod Air in a C1?

I have the spacer in and that makes the alignment worse.
I have decided to use a pump from a '65 that was designed for a two groove pulley. It's not going to pass judging anyway with air conditioning.