A/C for 1973 Corvette

[KinleyDog]

I have recently purchased a 1973 Corvette with a 350 engine. The car came with no A/C compressor. What recommendations are there in regards to installing A/C. It does not really matter to me if the part is original or not, and it might even be better to install new technology. I'd be interested in any help I can get as this is my first Corvette (I come from Javelin AMX background). Many thanks in advance.

 

[goertz]

Personally, I'd get a compressor from Pep Boys ($100.00). I'd pull off the pep boys decals, and order the reproduction GM ones, so now it looks original. I'd replace all the o-rings, dryer, hoses (if budget permits, and if originals are not leaky), flush, take to an ac shop for evacuation and recharge, and enjoy. The stock AC cools exceptionally well when it works. Lots of people like to throw all the stock stuff away, and go with an aftermarket system. Personally, I would retain the look of the original system. I wish my '73 had factory AC.

 

[KinleyDog]

Personally, I'd get a compressor from Pep Boys..... I would retain the look of the original system. I wish my '73 had factory AC.

many thanks for your input. i wasn't aware that older systems would still be available, but it sounds like this is a good option and not too expensive.