A/C removal

since I don't need AC where I live, I was thinking of removing the dead weight from my 84 Westy. Anyone have experience doing this? Anything I need to watch out for? How about retro-fitting the rear overhead into storage?

[ 02-18-2002: Message edited by: Capt. Mike ]

[jackkozar]

Steve, I removed mine on my 86. It is not difficult but it will take a while. Just take your time. When all is removed you will have about 80lbs of ac junk.

[nosliwmit]

I don't use the A/C on mine very often around home (Seattle), but driving through Utah in July I was very glad that the system worked!

AC is an expensive option...

[Capt. Mike]

I can't comment on the technical side for your particular model but offer these general comments applicable to all models.

First, I echo jack 86 weekender's comments about it's sure nice when you travel. I'd hate to confine my Westy to not being able to go where I want, when I want.

Second, seriously consider what you are doing to the resale value. Lack of A/C can hurt value $thousand$, especially when one considers the 'jury rig' of plugging holes & replacing ducting. Propective buyers are very likely to consider a purchase with a jaundiced eye and perception of "If he couldn't maintain the A/C, what's he done to the rest of the vehicle?"

In Type IIs, remember the engine bay sheet metal was clipped and you will have to fabricate new sheet metal to restore the air-tight seal of the engine compartment for cooling purposes and preventing dirt entry. With any, you will have to investigate and consider electrical function. Many FI systems monitor A/C operation. You will have to securely cap off the very high amp (typically 40A) A/C circuits against future shorts. You will now have holes in the dash and many holes where wiring and hoses were run. These must be capped tightly to prevent leaks, bugs, air inflitration and just general housekeeping. A/C systems have condensate drains. These need to be capped to prevent bug & dirt entry back into the interior.

The wieght you're talking about saving (~1.5% of GVWR) is not going to significantly jump your mileage or performance. When not on, A/C drag on the engine is negligible.

[DSRTBCH]

Cap'n Mike, I know it's been awhile, but just wanted to say thanks for the helpful response. Those are just the sort of things I was concerned about. Thanks to the others who replied as well! For now, I will keep the A/C, maybe try to get it fixed when I have the money.

[rhaines75]

I am simply trying to gain access to the compressor on my 85' westy. It is the original ac unit. I have removed all the nuts and screws I can find, however, I cant get the darn panels off to see the AC's compressor. Could anyone tell me what I have to do to see the ac units guts? Please help.
Thanks!

[Capt. Mike]

I'm a little confused. The compressor is sitting wide-open on top of the left side of the engine easily accessible with the engine access lid a(under the mattress) removed as illustrated in the Benltey 87.2

If you are talking about the evaporator, it has it's own topic in this forum. The condensor is up with the radiator.

[deadon]

Several years ago our condenser (unit mounted in engine compartment) was removedfrom our '91 Eurovan .We live in Canada where it it not so warm and have managed to cross the country a few times without melting. We were told that as milage would improve if we didn't replace the condenser. The evaporator (in the overhead compartment in rear cabine) is dead weight & a potential storage space. It appears after removing the ventilating screen for a look see that the evaporator could be disconnected & removed to create added storage space . Is this procedure rocket science or can an amateur manage?Is it necessary to remove all the connecting hoses & wires?