'71 AC system restoration

[Michael G.]

I am gearing up for the restoration of my R-12 air conditioning system and wanted to work on a list of the parts to be (1) Replaced-NOS if possible or realistic.(2) Restored-Professionally.(3)Retained-For originality.I'm no wizard when it comes to air conditioning but I do recognize the individual components used in my system. I would like to know where you guys have your components rebuilt. What items should I seek out for replacement? My system operates but there is no cold associated. I am looking at vacuum pumps but could use some help in purchasing a decent unit. I have only acquired the proper material O-ring kit and mineral oil. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Mike.

[Jim T.]

Re: '71 AC system restoration

Michael I had a "no cooling" experience with my 1970's factory air conditioning system. My 70's system still had R12. The desiccant in the dryer (container located under the passenger headlight) broke free and traveled through the condenser to the expansion valve's filter and prevented the free flow of R12. This problem is written in the factory service manual and shows the expansion valve and removable filter screen. I do recommend removing this screen and inspecting it if your system has no R12 in it before you recharge the system. A new dryer, flushing of the condenser from the dryer connection to the condenser to the expansion valve to remove any other desiccant, a R12 charging, some 525 compressor lubricant, vacuum pull on the system, expansion screen replacement and my 70's system was operational. So glad I bought my 70 new having factory air. The expansion valve's filter screen is pretty small and could be challenge to extract. If you cannot find a new one to replace it with and have not a new one bought (I did) you might be able to use a easy out or small drill bit using fingers to rotate them to dislodge it without any damage to original filter screen. I did not damage my original screen when I removed it. I do not remember the metal composition of the screen, but a strong magnet could be possible help in the extraction.

[Michael G.]

Re: '71 AC system restoration

Thanks Jim. That's a much simpler project than I had in mind and I will surely try that route before replacing most of the components. Very much appreciated.