AC Compressor Bracket Problem

[bari]

Just like most of you folks in the forum, seems like I've been working a long time trying to get my C3 ('75) back on the road. What started out as an "engine replacement" project is now almost three years on-going restoration/modification project which I'm working with a local shop in town after I initially entrusted it with Corvette Mike's in Tustin, CA (I wouldn't recommend this place to anyone... but that's another issue).

Anyhow, the mechanic I'm working with right now forgot to mention that with the Hedman headers that I just had installed at a local muffler shop, the AC compressor bracket that used to bolt on to the original exhaust manifold, no longer works. (He pulled out the AC components initially to make it easier for the muffler shop). I went ahead and bought replacement chrome compressor and corresponding hose from Mid America. Does anyone know of customized replacement brackets? I'm sure someone in this forum have had this situation already. Any suggestion for a fabricated replacement bracket?

I've been heavily doing modifications (for performance and looks) and am seriously thinking of a "serpentine" setup that I hope would take care of this problem at the same time. (Maybe March Performance setup). Any feedback on this is greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Bari

 

[Robin7TFour]

Bari, check with Bobchad in the CAC membership. he's had to do the same thing

 

[72Mako]

When I installed my Hooker headers, the stock a/c bracket wouldn't fit. Hooker has a fabbed bracket which cleared but I wasn't enthused with the construction. I ended up grinding the original bracket until I got the clearance I needed. I later picked up another a/c bracket at a swap meet to use if I ever return it back to stock. This is on my '72 with the long style a/c compressor. Believe your's is old enough that you are running the long style compressor and not the short style? Charles

 

[bari]

I decided to go with the Small Block Serpentine, Ultra Front Mount Compact Design with Short Water Pump , Reverse Rotation kit. It comes with a lot of the stuff that I need such as the polished AC compressor, polished AC lines, polished alternator, water pump, power steering pump, etc. Very expensive alright!!! Just returned the chrome AC condenser and AC lines to Mid America. Was surprised that they have no restocking fee as long as they are not used. Have to wait until the mechanic has freed up one of his lifts (that's the irritating part --- he said maybe by the end of August!).

 

[Space Cowboy]

Try www.conceptonepulleys.com I've just bought a complete kit from them including a dressed out a/c compressor along with brackets. They may have a bracket that will work for you. They specialize in custom Corvette parts. It was great doing business with them.

 

[pipedoctor]

I just installed Hedman headers and bought the AC adapater bracket that is availible from Hedman. It instal on top of the header using the bolts which go to the exhaust head.

 

[Bill75]

I used the original bracket when I installed the ZZ4 w headers in my 75 and made some spacers from a piece of 1/4 iron pipe. I did have to grind a small portion of the bracket a little for clearance on one of the exhaust tubes but it wasen't too big a deal.

 

[Art Jett]

That's exactly what i did on my 77