1981 AC Compressor Replacement

[Tifton81]

I had my 81 AC compressor charged a couple weeks ago and wouldn't you know it, I got about 15 miles down the road and the clutch locked up and wow what a smell. Anyway, I want to replace the compressor and so I began my search.
I called The Last Detail in Atlanta and they have one in stock but the guy on the phone said the cost he has listed is from last summer and it will be more than $250.00 as I believe it is listed in their catalog. I've checked Ecklers and a couple more vendors.

My question is, Napa has it for $200.00 and Autozone has it for just over $100.00 or so. Can anyone tell me what the difference would be in the product from the vendors and who would you buy from?

I asked about the warranty and got several different answers.

Thanks

tifton 81

 

[GerryLP]

Tifton,

Your dillema requires you to answer the following question from your own perspective -Is it important for you to keep manufacturing dates and accuracy as close to original equipment? If so, then you will buy these from the Corvette vendors (in the majority of the cases). If, on the other hand, you can live with the cost savings, operation, and without the "dates and stamps", then your option could include Auto Zone (specially a life time warranty item).

In short, for NCRS = corvette vendors and for functionality = parts house with competitive prices.

 

[Tifton81]

Thanks GerryLP....Not that worried about the correct dates just didn't know the reason for such a wide variety in the price for what I thought was the same item.

Another question is now I'm getting is it switched or non switched? How would I know if it is?

Wiley

 

[bari]

Replacement AC Compressor

I'm in the process of restoring and modifying my 75. Due to the headers that I have installed, the original AC Compressor bracket that bolts on the old exhaust manifold does not work anymore. My mechanic didn't warn me about this before I bought a chrome A/C Compressor from Mid America (Part # 609-333) and corresponding replacement hose (Part # 609-030). I just called them up to see if I can return the parts but they're closed on weekends.

I know, I'd lose money one way or another. If you're interested, you can have these (not yet installed) at less than what I paid for. You can reach me at (805) 341-3541.

Bari

 

[Tifton81]

Thanks Bari, but I bought a new GM replacement from the Atlanta Corvette Store. It's already in and working like a champ. If you started a new thread and posted it for sell, someone will buy it.


Tifton 81