I’ve got an ‘87 K5 Silverado with factory AC. The compressor and condenser are shot, broken lines etc. Basically need to replace the whole thing. Cost is not an issue. What’s the best, most complete system on the market? I don’t want to manufacture mounts or do any chopping of body/dash. Anyone use this? https://www.originalair.com/83-87-chevy-gmc-truck-ac-performance-upgrade-kit-v8-stage-3
CK5
Register an account today to become a member! Once signed in, you'll be able to participate on this site by adding your own topics and posts, as well as connect with other members.
Most complete A/C kit
- Thread starter kyalbert
- Start date
Anything is better than an r4 compressor and that new style condenser works better with r134.
Looks like a good option, I wouldn't run an r4 either. A6 manufactured are just not holding together. The newer Sanden would be my choice, the biggest cubic inch compressor you can get.
I personally wouldn't buy an aftermarket kit to replace the factory system. I don't like loosing the fresh air option, and the Vintage air system that I had years ago didn't have very good heat, nor would it keep the windows from fogging over in a summer rainstorm or in the winter. That was in a standard cab truck I can't imagine what it would be like in K5.
In my '90 Jimmy, I kept the evaporator and main pieces of the factory system, but I installed a parallel flow condenser and a 7 piston Sanden style compressor. It took custom hoses to connect it, but it works well. I installed a blue Ford orifice tube.
I haven't sealed the plastic tube connections inside the dash perfectly, but I am happy with how it works.
I haven't had to deal with the R4 compressor fragility in years!!!
In my '90 Jimmy, I kept the evaporator and main pieces of the factory system, but I installed a parallel flow condenser and a 7 piston Sanden style compressor. It took custom hoses to connect it, but it works well. I installed a blue Ford orifice tube.
I haven't sealed the plastic tube connections inside the dash perfectly, but I am happy with how it works.
I haven't had to deal with the R4 compressor fragility in years!!!
Not wanting to make or change anything, OEM style parts are your only option. Look at Rockauto for what is available.
That kit posted, uses factory evap and housing. The only updates are the compressor, brackets and parallel flow condenser. It looks like an excellent option to renew the gas system on an original ac truck
Does your '87 have a serpentine-style (ribbed) belt on the compressor? That kit appears to have a V-belt compressor. The clutch and pulley can be swapped, so that's not really a deal breaker. The R-4 ran throughout the 80's, but the mounting bracket for the conversion may not be the same for the hybrid accessory brackets and the V-belt accessory brackets. You could contact original air and they may be able to tell you if it's compatible or has options.
