LS Swap AC Compressor Choices (Sanden, Denso, Harrison)...

[PWagon]

I've been reading a lot of blogs on the topic of AC compressors for LS swaps. Every article I have read is about guys who swear by and are only using Sanden brand compressors. Unfortunately I have both a old pancake style Harrison R4 and a Denso 134 that both have life left in them. My question is why are so many guys swearing by the Sanden compressor? What is the benefit to switching to the Sanden? On average, how much are the Sanden compressors selling for? Keep in mind that I am relocating my compressor to the top passenger side of the engine (for clearance issues).

 

[bigred88]

I know nothing about Harrison or Denso compressors, but I know in the Sanden vs. York debate the Sanden consumes about 2 HP to run, vs. 12 HP for a York. That's why I've always heard the Sanden is better- strictly because of the lower horsepower use. I don't know if the same thought applies to a Harrison or Denso, I don't know how much hp they take to run.

 

[Big Ray]

If I had that style I'd go Sanden...just my $.02. here's a good thread on the subject. clicky

quote:

Anyone who has done any amount of AC work knows what a POS the R4 compressor is:

They cool fine, but they are HP sucking pigs, they tend to leak around the body seals, and because their lubrication relies entirely on oil carried in the suction gas (they have no oil sump), any low refrigerant or low-flow situation (like short-cycling) will shorten their already limited lifespans. When they blow up they tend to be messy - my system was full of metal particles

 

[PWagon]

Okay. Let's take the Harrison R4 out of the discussion. Why are so many people so fond of the Sanden and not the Denso? Literally every post I read is how the Sanden compressor is the only way to go, but no one tells why. Like I mentioned, I already own the Denso (came with the engine swap from salvage yard). Hell, these Denso compressors are what GM put in Tahoes for many years, so I just can't understand why no one is making a Denso ac relocation bracket but they do for Sanden.

 

[Big Ray]

that, I don't know...

 

[Big Ray]

quick search, Denso are rotary, Sanden are piston type.

apparently, the piston type (Sanden) run colder...

I'd go with the Sanden...just my $.02 again

here's some links for further reading...clicky

 

[PWagon]

I'm literally get'n hundred-dollared-to-death. Guess I'll be using a mister bottle and hand fan until I can save enough to do the swap and get the right Sanden compressor.

 

[dhcomp]

I'm literally get'n hundred-dollared-to-death.

Know the feeling. I researched this a bunch....and then dropped in a GM crate motor.

That being said, good luck with your LS swap!

 

[Teck]

I did a Sanden on mine, just because that is what everyone said to use. And that was the bracket kit I could get to mount it. Mine will blow around 38*. I also had to change my condenser to one from Napa that was for 134a and also had to add dual electric fans to pull enough air through it. I also have a place that can make you new hoses for a good price. Call me if you have any question or I can help. Here are a few pics from when I did mine.

 

[Blue85]

I would like to find a good reference for the displacement of common compressors. So what if a compressor consumes less HP if it can't keep you cool? We have to compare apples to apples.

 

[Big Ray]

I'm literally get'n hundred-dollared-to-death. Guess I'll be using a mister bottle and hand fan until I can save enough to do the swap and get the right Sanden compressor.

did that last year...