Re: IML: Air Conditioning

[Chris Hawkins <imperial1966@xxxxxxxxx>]

The '56 and '55 A/C components should bolt in pretty
much identically.  The only issue is the 12 volt vs. 6
volt situation for the clutch and blowers.  But it
should not be a problem to intall a converter to step
down the voltage should you decide to use the original
6V components instead of replacement 12V ones.

The system is a trunk mounted system, so it is far
simpler to install than a dash mounted system.  The
only significant modification you might consider is
switching to a modern compressor and using R-134.  (I
assume you have all the A/C-specific pulleys,
brackets, etc.)  The original trunk mounted evaporator
is huge so it should be able to function nicely with
R-134.  You might also consider an auxiliary electric
fan in front of the condensor that comes on whenever
the compressor is engaged.  

The rarest item of all is the dash-mounted control
switch.  I would urge the 1955 option for that reason.
 Also, it should be fairly simple to install the
heater, too.

Overall, it should be a straightforward installation
that would look factory-correct, save for the modern
compressor should you go that route.

Chris H.

66 LeBaron

 





--- tdcox <tdcox@xxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote:

> I have purchased a 56 Southampton coupe without A/C.
>  I have located a 55 4
> dr Imperial complete with all air hardware (front
> and rear) and the interior
> components (dash, etc.). 
> 
> I have also seen the postings on the Repair Section
> advising against adding
> A/C and several articles on how to do it for 1960
> models and up.  
> 
> I also have an offer from a club member that has a
> 56 system (I think) with
> the engine and trunk components but does not have
> the inside hardware (dash
> vents, switches, etc.)
> 
> Does anyone have any experience converting a 55
> Imperial system to 56
> Imperial?  Do the pulleys line up?  Will the 55
> compressor work on the 56?
> Is another compressor available if it will not match
> up?  Is there a problem
> converting from a 6 volt system to the 12 volt
> system?
> 
> My car is a heater delete car in that it is coming
> from Hawaii; is this a
> problem for the A/C hookup?  Can I use the heater
> box, etc from the 55?
> 
> Sounds like a big project but I think it would be
> worth it.  Any suggestions
> would be appreciated.
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
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