Author Topic: A/C setup from an 89 Ramcharger in my 73 Challenger?  (Read 696 times)

Offline bobs73challenger

  • Jr. Member
  • **
  • Posts: 75
A/C setup from an 89 Ramcharger in my 73 Challenger?
« on: August 20, 2014 - 10:44:19 AM »
Hi everyone,

My 73 Challenger originally had AC.  At some point, it was removed.  The controls are still there, but everything from the firewall and up was removed. 

A friend gave me the A/C compressor (Sanden 508), brackets and condenser from an 89 Ramcharger.  The Ramcharger had a 360 in it.  My challenger also has a 360 in it (dates to 75 or 76 -- 974 casting heads).  Will these parts work?  In theory, I have to convert the Sanden to r-134a.  Will the brackets mount to my 360?  If yes, will the hood close?  I would think so.  I'm running an Edelbrock Performer RPM intake. 

Re: the condenser.  This thing looks way bigger than what probably came stock on this car.  I've never seen what would've come stock on the Challenger, so I could be wrong.  Just looks awfully big. 

Any suggestions on where/how to mount it? 

Also: would a stock electrical system be able to handle an AC system AND an electric fan?  I've switched the headlights over to relays.  I'm not looking to upgrade the alternator until I'm ready to put some money into the rest of the electrical system.  And I'm not there yet.  If the fan has to wait, it has to wait. 

Thanks!

Bob




Offline 1 Wild R/T

  • Resident
  • *****
  • Posts: 4594
Re: A/C setup from an 89 Ramcharger in my 73 Challenger?
« Reply #1 on: August 20, 2014 - 11:05:49 AM »
You'll find the thermostat housing occupies the space where the A/C compressor will want to be... Chrysler moved the thermostat to the left side of the intake when they started using the Sanden... I'm not aware of any performance intakes that have necessary the thermostat location...
JS27N0B 70 Challenger R/T Convertible  FJ5 Sublime, Show Poodle w/90,000 miles since resto
WS27L8G 68 Coronet R/T Convertible  PP1 Bright Red, Project
RM21H9E 69 Road Runner Coupe R4 Performance Red, Sold...
5H21C  65 Falcon 2 dr Wagon... Dog Hauler...

Offline Adam

  • Jr. Member
  • **
  • Posts: 21
Re: A/C setup from an 89 Ramcharger in my 73 Challenger?
« Reply #2 on: August 20, 2014 - 05:53:25 PM »
In addition to what Wild RT said, if your engine isnt currently set up for A/C it is likely your engine pulleys will need to be changed.  Look for a complete set from a donor car or check with an after market A/C bracket and pulley set up from March or maybe Bouchillion.

 http://bouchillonperformance.com/inc/sdetail/467/572

or

http://www.marchperf.com/pg47.html

BTW, these sets look like they require a Driver's side upper radiator hose.
« Last Edit: August 20, 2014 - 06:01:55 PM by Adam »

Offline Chryco Psycho

  • Administrator
  • C-C.com Guru
  • *****
  • Posts: 36620
  • 70 Challenger R/T SE 70 tube Chassis Cuda now sold
Re: A/C setup from an 89 Ramcharger in my 73 Challenger?
« Reply #3 on: August 21, 2014 - 07:54:20 PM »
The mount point for the compressor should be on the intake but you may have to modify or make a new bracket
The condenser may fit , the original was approx. the size of a 26" rad width should not be an issue but height might be , I would mount the condenser at least 1" forward of the rad leaving air space between using straps / mounts off the rad wall
 If you still have the 18" 7 blade fan & shroud it should cool without an additional fan you will need a new dryer for the 134a

Challenger - You`ll wish You Hadn`t