Air or no air....

[IdahoKidd]

I am doing a complete make over (as opposed to a true restoration) of my 72 240. I have a complete AC system from a 77 280z in a parts car. While I want this car to look stock, I also want it to be a reliable and enjoyable daily driver. I am asking for the pro's and con's of installing the AC into this car. I am assuming it isn't that complicated to R&R the pieces, I don't know how practical it really is or if more modern parts (the whole refrigerant issues) are the best bet. Any thoughts from anyone that has done this?

Thanks,

Leonard

[sblake01]

The system for a 280Z won't fit in a 240Z. The dash was redesigned with the advent of the 260Z in the 74 model year. There wouldn't be enough room behind the dash and the control system is quite different from the 240Z.

[zcarnut]

I’ve seen several “hybrid” ac systems in 240Z’s. Use your 280Z compressor, condenser, and receiver-drier along with an aftermarket 240Z evaporator and controller (thermostat). The refrigerant lines would be combination of the Nissan hard lines and the aftermarket rubber (soft) lines.

Tip: Use the 280ZX compressor mount. It’s aluminum and much lighter than the 280Z “boat anchor” mount.

[bob m]

I bought an a/c system from ebay from a 73 240z and threw away the compressor (big and heavy) I used a small unit on the left lower side of the motor and had new lines and a bracket made. On a hot day these Zs get very warm.

Bob M

[IdahoKidd]

Good to know the 280 stuff doesn't fit. I am assuming then that there was factory air available in the 240? I know I don't want to fit an underdash aftermarket unit in there (even if it would fit).

Leonard

[sblake01]

There was no factory air available for the 240Z, only aftermarket. Factory air didn't become available until the 260Z in 1974.

[MikeW]

Here's one option:

http://www.courtesyparts.com/1970-1973-240z-air-conditioning-kit-r134-freon-p-228048.html?cPath=7724_7747&

[sblake01]

Here's one option:

Where does the evaporator mount with that unit? Passenger footwell or center of the dash?

[IdahoKidd]

Hey Mike, thanks for the lead! I'll have to check out the details. I don't know about ac stuff am trying to figure out why I can't use the underhood parts I have and just get the dash parts I'd need. Probably a really good reason, I just don't know. It might be cleaner and simpler in the end to get the new system. It isn't that I am cheap, it is that I am poor. Big difference.......

[sblake01]

I don't know about ac stuff am trying to figure out why I can't use the underhood parts I have and just get the dash parts I'd need.

That's pretty much what Steve is describing in post #3. It can be done.

[Zulaytr]

Regarding the use of the 77 Air parts for the engine bay you might consider these points:

1. If the system has not been used in years the compressor seals could be suspect

2. That system does not use R134 freon which is most prevelent and the cheaper.

3. The new style rotary compressors are more effective and have less drag on the engine.

Regarding the question about the Courtesy kit, or even one from Motorsports, their evaporator does mount up from the under side of the dash so you do lose some foot space since it hangs down in that area. Unfortunately that is really the only easy solution unless someone wants to totally redesign the dash.

I hope this helps your decision process. If you do decide to go with the Courtesy or Motorsports units they are fairly easy to install. You would only need to drill two holes through the firewall for the hoses and then the rest is just bolt in.

[rclayton12]

I'm currently reviving my dealer add-on A/C system in my '73 240z. So far I have purchased new rotary compressor, mounting bracket (came with York comp. mounted on passenger side next to fuel pump), new drier, new expansion valve, new condenser (parallel flow), and all new hoses (with o-ring fittings). I am using the dealer add-on evaporator (sits in passenger footwell). The system holds a steady vacuum. I have freeze-12 on order and it should be in on Friday. I will let you know how it performs once it's charged. My Z is primarily a daily driver as well.