It's technically still summer soooo.... Anyway yeah, this video took some time! I'm looking forward to filming in a new format so we can get this car cleaned up reliable, and ready for power mods!
Hey Matt check out this condensor on Summit. Looks like it'll fit a third gen. Thanks www.summitracing.com/parts/sgt-7-4426?seid=srese1&gclid=CjwKCAjwqZPrBRBnEiwAmNJsNmy5uPOQRtxJoXkmpwWfGFsvqedpNidllHN0sjmrIw7YLZBdun8ezxoC744QAvD_BwE
www.summitracing.com/parts/sgt-7-3231 I ordered this condenser for an 89 Formula and it's parallel flow. Spectra had a design change mid year of 2019. This part number is now parallel flow without having to shell out the $300 or even the $153
Thank you so much for covering this off as I really need to deal with reinstating the AC in my 82 Indy Pace Car. The T Tops are like a glass house in Summer!
A trick I learned with these conversions, if you unplug the switch on the evaporator and look at the cycle switch you will see a set screw take a flat head and turn it counter clockwise not even a quarter turn. It will let the compressor run just alittle longer giving you a little more cold air
Good instructions... I changed out the compressor, accumulator, condenser, refrigerant lines, orifice tube, flushed the evaporator, vacuumed the system and charged it up. 85 Z-28. The original orifice tube was plugged indicating contamination.
This video will help me out a lot. I have an 83 with a Pontiac Engine. The entire A/C system is missing. I hope to gather all the parts and get it running again. This is extremely useful as far as what to get and where it all goes. Thanks! Nice car btw.
Hey mate with the set up on your new gauges, you have the hoses the wrong way around the ends with the kink is the end you attach to your car or A/C and the straight part is meant to go to the gauges. On the kinked end there is a little bit of brass that pressed in the valves when they are attached, the way you have will work but when you remove the fittings you will still introduce a little air into the system.
I just fixed the AC in my 90 Tracker. It ran R12 and didnt work when I got it. I replaced all the O rings, flushed the system, replaced receiver drier, put a 1500CFM fan from Summit on the condenser and charge it to factory spec. On a 80 degree day it will get down to 38F.
Hey Matt! Thank you so much for this information, I have a 1984 Camaro Z28 that was retrofitted by autoform, I live down in Miami and it gets really hot driving the car even with the top down. I just wanted to thank you so much for showing us how to retrofit the AC units, I've been following the channel since mid 2018 and everything you've produced has has helped me so much with the Z28. Thank you so much again!!
Okay I have constructive criticism as well as professional advice so bare with me if it's long. 1.) Hook up gauges and if system found flat (no freon) use air compressor (60psi) and pump up system. If leak cannot be heard or oil spots not seen then get bubbles and spray components ( refer lines, compressor, condenser coil, ect.) This way no hidden surprises for parts needed. 2.) Flushing is a great tool..you can never use too much (new refrigerants use synthetic oils or known as POE) cause old sludge, particles, or trash in the lines will not be good for new refrigerants. 3.) Tearing down that compressor. Wash all parts with flush (old mineral oils and new POE oils dont mix). When rebuilding that compressor you should have wiped it down better and wiped on new oil on ALL gaskets NO vaseline or white lithium grease. After compressor was re assembled I would have used thee old hose cut it and sealed it to put on and bench test compressor with 60psi of air and bubbles (ensuring no leaks from the fresh regasket). I would have added in thee proper amount of ounces of oil (I prefer sub zero oil as for me has has best results)to compressor prior to installing.Make sure every connection hoses, was lubricated with new oil (as each gasket benifits from not tearing or hard pressure).4.) Test system again with 60psi and let stand for 45minutes if pressure doesn't drop and no further leak let out air and prepare for vacuum5.) Your vacuum pump needs fresh oil before you start to pull a vacuum (that oil is what collects all the moisture and dirt from the system). Pulling thru a manifold doesn't allow the vacuum pump to be at full capacity. When pulling a vacuum a micron gauge HAS to be used. With the new oils vacuum levels HAVE to be achieved or the system will become acidic. 30hg is a good start to see for no leaks. Bit a micron gauge is more precise. Also you may need to change vacuum pump oil at least once to achieve a deep vacuum (below 500 microns sitting thus meaning valves closed and the system settles in the vacuum under 500 microns). 5.) Make sure you always charge refrigerant in as a liquid. This keeps the chemical make up as designed and does not fraction off the gas (heavier particles staying in can and lighter filling system first). If you my advice you will ensure a job well done. I have 25yrs to back it up.
I kept my entire system stock with the R12 setup. Flushed with the same flush used in this video and replaced the accumulator and orifice tube. Used RedTek refrigerant in it and it cools amazing. I am consistently ~40*F even on hot days.
@bluenecross keep it R12 and use RedTek. I get it locally direct from RedTek and it's crazy cheap, almost 1/2 price of R134a. There's ZERO reason to convert it.
Great video! I had an 86 Firebird with a 2.8... I could never get good airflow out of the vents. I even replaced the blower motor and never was able to get more than a breeze out of the vents.
More than likely your ac control panel has a vacuum leak or your actuator isn't working. Either one will cause it to blow the cold air out of the fresh air port under hood instead of into car.
Do you know what the NEW direct Replacement for R-12 is?Plain old PROPANE for your BBQ.Turn tank upside down and slowly fill with LIQUID propane.No oil or seals change necessary.Old HVAC dude here brother.Still better than 134...
Hi Matt, I know this is now an old video but I have an 83 Trans am with the same A/C setup you have but the comptessor has been removed. I have a new but compressor but some of the bracketry is missing. As you've now done the LS swap on the Firebird I was wondering if you would be willing to sell me the brackets I need (if you still have them). Its the top arched bracket and the ones that bolt to the front and back of the compressor. Thank you in advance for help you can offer.
good tech vid, thanks. If ya plan on driving that 305 awhile, I would buy a cheap aluminum intake off craigslist and a cheap ebay 650 carb, idk what your gas mpg is but, it's probably way under 10mpg and the and the setup I mentioned will bump ya up to 15+mpg.....it's worth the effort for gas money savings....dump the cat at the same time...imo. Just a thought...
Thank you for this video Matt! I just bought a bunch of stuff to do the AC on my 1987/1988 TA. It's a mutt. My car was a '88 305 TBI. Now hosts my '87 GTA 350 (383) parts. Love my 3rd gens! I'm hoping I catch a LS swap into the TA video, sometime. :)
@@TFD1982 I think everyone is aware he has an LS Camaro. I'm merely adding encouragement for him to do a swap on the TA, as well. I am never ever, ever sarcastic. Ever!
@@lsxmatt looks like only 92 and it has a different fitting size. So you won't already be into custom lines. My vent temps on mine are at freezing with r134 and the ls1 stock compressor though I used the white tube. All new Spectra parts for an 89.
Damn I can see that hard work you are putting in for these videos Matt. I applaud you. Keep it going they are great and I’m cool with the other format too lol. But damn I’m glad my 76 Camino had cold a/c cuz that looks like a lot of work! I regret selling it but maybe one day I’ll get a 72 SS lol or my dream car the Cuda. Anyways thanks for the long video. Something to do on these late night shifts
I know this is an older video however, I have an 89 camaro 305tbi with ac. I'm planning on completely redoing the ac with original airs kit. The problem is my ac box is gone, sensors too, and I'm not sure what sensors I'll need when I get my new box. I still have the factory harness though. Do you have a video talking about those sensors/where to find them?
Nice man. Not to nit pick but when you said your making the air cold your actually removing the heat from inside the car. It is impossible to make anything cold. Everything is a transfer of heat. But still a good job none the less. Keep up the good work.
I just want the ac to work in my third gen, is that too much to ask!!?? Lol. Hey man really good job on the video. Lots of good info here. I'm converting to 134a myself . Do you know if that same blue orifice tube will work on my 89 Firebird Tpi car?
This was more informative than any forum or google search has been as to how to get my 85 iroc ac back up and running, although i think I'll spend a few bucks and get an auxiliary fan just for the ac because the factory fan sucks balls
As to the Air Conditioning, how about inside the car(cabin), it must get full of dust, which could clog up, the flow of air, and the drain hole, where water comes out that could get clogged up,do you also check that, the newer cars they have an air filter, which collects dust which could clog the evaporator, especially in older cars like that 33 year old Trans-AM whichnin turn could make water fall down in the floor, and make it costly, $$$, just trying to think all possible scenarios beefore it reaches that point.
It's a lot of fun though. I worked on mine all day just got finished it's 11 pm . Final result ,saved a lot of money doing it myself and have working ac in my 89 Pontiac now. I did buy a rebuilt compressor from AutoZone kinda cheated a little there but did everything else in the video .
Great video, basic easy to understand information thanks for not editing out the blooper @4:48. I can't understand how you didn't get more likes at the time I watched, 2,656 views 228 likes?
Really helpful vid. I have one question since I recently did a more rushed version of this with my 77 Vette which appears to have the same compressor. Should the compressor housing get too hot to touch when in use? Mine seems to get very warm super quick, but other than that everything works decently. Hope you see this.
@@lsxmatt Ok thanks, I never bothered to feel the housing on a stock R12 system before so wondered if it was getting ready to seize up! I'll let it run longer now and just trust it.
I literally did my ac on my 87 yesterday. New comp and all. Does your pancake compressor rattle in gear while stopped? Mine is new and it does. Common thing im hearing. Thanks .
It's technically still summer soooo.... Anyway yeah, this video took some time! I'm looking forward to filming in a new format so we can get this car cleaned up reliable, and ready for power mods!
Hey Matt check out this condensor on Summit. Looks like it'll fit a third gen. Thanks www.summitracing.com/parts/sgt-7-4426?seid=srese1&gclid=CjwKCAjwqZPrBRBnEiwAmNJsNmy5uPOQRtxJoXkmpwWfGFsvqedpNidllHN0sjmrIw7YLZBdun8ezxoC744QAvD_BwE
i saw that!!! My favorite color is Red...lol. (love the shorts) xoxox
www.summitracing.com/parts/sgt-7-3231
I ordered this condenser for an 89 Formula and it's parallel flow. Spectra had a design change mid year of 2019. This part number is now parallel flow without having to shell out the $300 or even the $153
Thank you so much for covering this off as I really need to deal with reinstating the AC in my 82 Indy Pace Car. The T Tops are like a glass house in Summer!
A trick I learned with these conversions, if you unplug the switch on the evaporator and look at the cycle switch you will see a set screw take a flat head and turn it counter clockwise not even a quarter turn. It will let the compressor run just alittle longer giving you a little more cold air
This was very enjoyable and the first time delving into an AC pump rebuild. Thanks
Good instructions... I changed out the compressor, accumulator, condenser, refrigerant lines, orifice tube, flushed the evaporator, vacuumed the system and charged it up. 85 Z-28. The original orifice tube was plugged indicating contamination.
This video will help me out a lot. I have an 83 with a Pontiac Engine. The entire A/C system is missing. I hope to gather all the parts and get it running again. This is extremely useful as far as what to get and where it all goes. Thanks! Nice car btw.
Fantastic! I need to do this to my '86 TA. After watching your video... when can I drop mine off? lol
Top job fella, glad to see another old survivor avoiding the crusher
Junk
Wait for the efficient Google bubble cars
Auto drive!!
That is the best A/C video I have seen. I really like the way you keep a budget in mind! Stay Cool!
Very impressive video. I’ve been elbow deep in many a/c systems but haven’t seen this intricate detail in compressor rebuild before on YT.👍
Hey mate with the set up on your new gauges, you have the hoses the wrong way around the ends with the kink is the end you attach to your car or A/C and the straight part is meant to go to the gauges.
On the kinked end there is a little bit of brass that pressed in the valves when they are attached, the way you have will work but when you remove the fittings you will still introduce a little air into the system.
I just fixed the AC in my 90 Tracker. It ran R12 and didnt work when I got it. I replaced all the O rings, flushed the system, replaced receiver drier, put a 1500CFM fan from Summit on the condenser and charge it to factory spec. On a 80 degree day it will get down to 38F.
Also, the low pressure side switch is adjustable on these.. adjust it to cycle at 22-24 psi instead of 26 that will get you down to 40-42
Hey Matt!
Thank you so much for this information, I have a 1984 Camaro Z28 that was retrofitted by autoform, I live down in Miami and it gets really hot driving the car even with the top down. I just wanted to thank you so much for showing us how to retrofit the AC units, I've been following the channel since mid 2018 and everything you've produced has has helped me so much with the Z28. Thank you so much again!!
Very informative video, wish I had known about the channel when I had my AC fixed on my 88' GTA. This is some of the best third gen content on UA-cam
Your video helped me make the plunge to get mine going again! ;) My R4 compressor is unfortunately lunched, so I'll be replacing it.
Amazing work Matt 👍 I wasn’t sure if u could get all the cleaner out of the condenser but yes that’s a different design
Great Video! The red orfice tube for a early 90s Ford truck works great as well. Been using those for several years on a few of my builds.
Okay I have constructive criticism as well as professional advice so bare with me if it's long. 1.) Hook up gauges and if system found flat (no freon) use air compressor (60psi) and pump up system. If leak cannot be heard or oil spots not seen then get bubbles and spray components ( refer lines, compressor, condenser coil, ect.) This way no hidden surprises for parts needed. 2.) Flushing is a great tool..you can never use too much (new refrigerants use synthetic oils or known as POE) cause old sludge, particles, or trash in the lines will not be good for new refrigerants. 3.) Tearing down that compressor. Wash all parts with flush (old mineral oils and new POE oils dont mix). When rebuilding that compressor you should have wiped it down better and wiped on new oil on ALL gaskets NO vaseline or white lithium grease. After compressor was re assembled I would have used thee old hose cut it and sealed it to put on and bench test compressor with 60psi of air and bubbles (ensuring no leaks from the fresh regasket). I would have added in thee proper amount of ounces of oil (I prefer sub zero oil as for me has has best results)to compressor prior to installing.Make sure every connection hoses, was lubricated with new oil (as each gasket benifits from not tearing or hard pressure).4.) Test system again with 60psi and let stand for 45minutes if pressure doesn't drop and no further leak let out air and prepare for vacuum5.) Your vacuum pump needs fresh oil before you start to pull a vacuum (that oil is what collects all the moisture and dirt from the system). Pulling thru a manifold doesn't allow the vacuum pump to be at full capacity. When pulling a vacuum a micron gauge HAS to be used. With the new oils vacuum levels HAVE to be achieved or the system will become acidic. 30hg is a good start to see for no leaks. Bit a micron gauge is more precise. Also you may need to change vacuum pump oil at least once to achieve a deep vacuum (below 500 microns sitting thus meaning valves closed and the system settles in the vacuum under 500 microns). 5.) Make sure you always charge refrigerant in as a liquid. This keeps the chemical make up as designed and does not fraction off the gas (heavier particles staying in can and lighter filling system first). If you my advice you will ensure a job well done. I have 25yrs to back it up.
I really appreciate this video. I hope to get my dad's ranch truck 1990 1500 chevy AC converted to 134 and working.
Matt ive done the same thing to my dads 03 s10 as Flushing the condenser & it worked he has cold ac again ! Good job man !
I kept my entire system stock with the R12 setup. Flushed with the same flush used in this video and replaced the accumulator and orifice tube. Used RedTek refrigerant in it and it cools amazing. I am consistently ~40*F even on hot days.
Did you use the RedTek R12a?
@@bluenecross yes, I use it in all my R12 cars. Works great and WAY cheaper than buying old cans of R12 for astronomical prices.
I'll look into it. I have a 92 Formula 350 that is in need of AC.
@bluenecross keep it R12 and use RedTek. I get it locally direct from RedTek and it's crazy cheap, almost 1/2 price of R134a. There's ZERO reason to convert it.
Great video! I had an 86 Firebird with a 2.8... I could never get good airflow out of the vents. I even replaced the blower motor and never was able to get more than a breeze out of the vents.
More than likely your ac control panel has a vacuum leak or your actuator isn't working. Either one will cause it to blow the cold air out of the fresh air port under hood instead of into car.
Do you know what the NEW direct Replacement for R-12 is?Plain old PROPANE for your BBQ.Turn tank upside down and slowly fill with LIQUID propane.No oil or seals change necessary.Old HVAC dude here brother.Still better than 134...
Thanks for sharing this info. I didn't know you can convert ac to different refrigerated.
Your channel is definitely underrated, keep up the great work, with the trans am video and the Tahoe stuff it's great footage.
cool video. it almost makes me want to fix the ac in my formula, almost.
Are you self taught or did u use to be a tech or work in a shop? Nice videos. Very informative and entertaining. Keep them coming
Thanks, Im a tech for my day job.
Love the little editing bits where you curse at the old parts ! Makes me giggle every time. Also love the Tahoe content
Excellent work Matt Trans Am look pretty good with a/c now 😁💪
Cue the 80’s music!! Love it 😊
Great video we actually went over ac in my diesel class today and this video was super helpful!
Hi Matt, I know this is now an old video but I have an 83 Trans am with the same A/C setup you have but the comptessor has been removed. I have a new but compressor but some of the bracketry is missing.
As you've now done the LS swap on the Firebird I was wondering if you would be willing to sell me the brackets I need (if you still have them). Its the top arched bracket and the ones that bolt to the front and back of the compressor.
Thank you in advance for help you can offer.
good tech vid, thanks. If ya plan on driving that 305 awhile, I would buy a cheap aluminum intake off craigslist and a cheap ebay 650 carb, idk what your gas mpg is but, it's probably way under 10mpg and the and the setup I mentioned will bump ya up to 15+mpg.....it's worth the effort for gas money savings....dump the cat at the same time...imo. Just a thought...
Thank you for this video Matt! I just bought a bunch of stuff to do the AC on my 1987/1988 TA. It's a mutt. My car was a '88 305 TBI. Now hosts my '87 GTA 350 (383) parts. Love my 3rd gens! I'm hoping I catch a LS swap into the TA video, sometime. :)
Ryan MacEwen he already has a ls Camaro
T.F.D 1982 oh my god! He should start a UA-cam channel.
Ryan MacEwen you being sarcastic about him or me?
@@TFD1982 I think everyone is aware he has an LS Camaro. I'm merely adding encouragement for him to do a swap on the TA, as well. I am never ever, ever sarcastic. Ever!
1991-92 firebird uses a parallel flow condenser. Just buy that from your favorite parts house. No need for the expensive aftermarket one or 4th gen.
I tried but everything that comes up through rockauto, autozone, amazon, ebay, all shows the standard tube and fin condensor.
@@lsxmatt looks like only 92 and it has a different fitting size. So you won't already be into custom lines. My vent temps on mine are at freezing with r134 and the ls1 stock compressor though I used the white tube. All new Spectra parts for an 89.
Damn I can see that hard work you are putting in for these videos Matt. I applaud you. Keep it going they are great and I’m cool with the other format too lol. But damn I’m glad my 76 Camino had cold a/c cuz that looks like a lot of work! I regret selling it but maybe one day I’ll get a 72 SS lol or my dream car the Cuda. Anyways thanks for the long video. Something to do on these late night shifts
Thanks for the Video..... I have a 92 Camaro I want to do the exact same thing.
Sounds like u need a new blower motor to lol maken a little racket . My s10 made that noise before it finally went out
I know this is an older video however, I have an 89 camaro 305tbi with ac. I'm planning on completely redoing the ac with original airs kit. The problem is my ac box is gone, sensors too, and I'm not sure what sensors I'll need when I get my new box. I still have the factory harness though. Do you have a video talking about those sensors/where to find them?
How did you learn how to do all of this? I'm trying to do more of my car maintenance, but its slow going and everything takes 3x longer than I expect.
When you hit that thumbs up button once the intro starts cause you already know it's gonna be 🔥🔥
Nice man. Not to nit pick but when you said your making the air cold your actually removing the heat from inside the car. It is impossible to make anything cold. Everything is a transfer of heat. But still a good job none the less. Keep up the good work.
I just want the ac to work in my third gen, is that too much to ask!!?? Lol. Hey man really good job on the video. Lots of good info here. I'm converting to 134a myself . Do you know if that same blue orifice tube will work on my 89 Firebird Tpi car?
Great channel. You seem to have the "you tube tutorial" thing down pat.
Great job keep it can’t wait for the next
This was more informative than any forum or google search has been as to how to get my 85 iroc ac back up and running, although i think I'll spend a few bucks and get an auxiliary fan just for the ac because the factory fan sucks balls
As to the Air Conditioning, how about inside the car(cabin), it must get full of dust, which could clog up, the flow of air, and the drain hole, where water comes out that could get clogged up,do you also check that, the newer cars they have an air filter, which collects dust which could clog the evaporator, especially in older cars like that 33 year old Trans-AM whichnin turn could make water fall down in the floor, and make it costly, $$$, just trying to think all possible scenarios beefore it reaches that point.
I'd like to buy that seal kit, but I can't find one and the link for the kit doesn't work.
are you not suppose to take the schrader valves off the original ports and just use the ones that are on the conversion adapters?
Just picked up 30lbs of 12 for 100.00 for my Camaro. Haven't checked if it's out of gas yet but I suspect it is.
You are truly the best man thank you for the links. Just hope this will work on my 91 camaro rs
If I where to have this done at a shop what do you think it would run?
Nice video Matt. Next T/A video you have to get some Motley Crue or
Def Leopard playing in the background to go with the 80’s theme 😂
Wow that’s a lot of work. It made my head hurt.
It's a lot of fun though. I worked on mine all day just got finished it's 11 pm . Final result ,saved a lot of money doing it myself and have working ac in my 89 Pontiac now. I did buy a rebuilt compressor from AutoZone kinda cheated a little there but did everything else in the video .
Wish you made this video when i had my trans am my ac didnt work for shit
Would you have to flush it if you are replacing the compressor and condenser?
why would you have to change the condenser if you change the compressor in the future?
Nice job, dude! Diggin' the 80s synth music, too. Almost Beverly Hills Cop-ish. :D
Try searching for The Prime Thanatos ua-cam.com/video/LUDEKMsxN0g/v-deo.html
Its all your 80's Synthwave tunes.
Great video, basic easy to understand information thanks for not editing out the blooper @4:48. I can't understand how you didn't get more likes at the time I watched, 2,656 views 228 likes?
The other side of hose inside plastic bottle goes where?
Would that same flush method work on a 98 k1500 chevy? Or is that to new like you said
what tool did you use to check if clutch is working?
Hell yes. Love the trans am vids 👍
I repalced all components of my AC system and the compressor will not engage. I tested at low pressure switch and I am getting no voltage.
Btw good job on the rebuild 👍🏼
Nice high quality video!
Really helpful vid. I have one question since I recently did a more rushed version of this with my 77 Vette which appears to have the same compressor. Should the compressor housing get too hot to touch when in use? Mine seems to get very warm super quick, but other than that everything works decently. Hope you see this.
As soon as it starts running it begins compressing the gas releasing at a hot high pressure, so that thing is gonna get hot.
@@lsxmatt Ok thanks, I never bothered to feel the housing on a stock R12 system before so wondered if it was getting ready to seize up! I'll let it run longer now and just trust it.
Super good info! Thanks!
why is the parallel flow condenser listed for 86-91 ? I have an 85.
They don’t make them for pre 86 for some reason. You can make it work but you’ll have to swap the evaporator to match 86-91
Very interesting video. Thanks 😊
Do u plan on putting a LS in here too......that would be sick matching f bodies...
The trans am will eventually get the Camaro’s old 5.3!
@@lsxmatt thas wassup
First. ( I miss the good ole r12 day that stuff was cold)
I literally did my ac on my 87 yesterday. New comp and all. Does your pancake compressor rattle in gear while stopped? Mine is new and it does. Common thing im hearing. Thanks .
Yea a little bit!
Chilled video 😆💪😎
Very good job 👍
Quick question Matt. I just refill my system “and the a/c Clutch does not turn on and off “ it stays engaged all the time” is that normal ?
If the temp is high enough outside it won’t cycle. It only turns off if the refrigerant pressure gets low enough to trip the switch.
LsxMatt thanks Matt!
Do a ls swap on the firebird
I thought it was going to be a 79 T/A.... I feel old
Why the can upside down? Wont that put liquid into the low side? I thought you werent supposed to do that. I could be wrong thoough...
No because accumulator will collect the liquid before it gets to the compressor.
@@lsxmatt Ah OK. Thanks!
Was that a special orifice tube
I will never fix the AC in the 92 1LE.
Anyone else subscribed only for the Tahoe?
That flush looks like apple juice
Didn’t taste like it unfortunately.
Hi sr
That can't be an 89 Trans Am.
86
A.c. with t top lol
Switch it to propane
💥🔥🔥🔥
LsxMatt nope. I run propane on our international tractor. What do you think the new refrigerants have now? They’re going back to butane based
no need for profanity
Great video. It has demistified the AC system for me!
Hi sr