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Parallel Flow Condenser - Copper Tubing

ghiotom on Sun June 28, 2009 11:12 AM User is offline

Year: 1996
Make: Jeep
Model: Grand Cherokee
Engine Size: 5.2 Ltr
Refrigerant Type: R134A

I am again tinkering with the idea of replacing my condenser with a PF condenser. I would like to purchase from ACKits, as I have in the past, but they don't have a drop in replacement. However, I have seen one from American Condensers which states it is a parallel flow and the picture seems to confirm this. Upon further research, I have found that they use COPPER tubing and ALUMINUM for the fins. Is this a red flag? Would I be better off getting a universal all aluminum PF condenser and having new hoses or jumpers made? The drop in would make things a lot easier, but not at the expense of a poorly made condenser.

TRB on Sun June 28, 2009 2:15 PM User is offlineView users profile

While smaller tubed copper T & F condensers running parallel are an improvement. It is by no means performs like the Aluminum PF condenser ACKits.com offers.

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When considering your next auto A/C purchase, please consider the site that supports you: ACkits.com
Contact: ACKits.com

ghiotom on Sun June 28, 2009 3:56 PM User is offline



This is the actual condenser I'm talking about. It looks very similar to the universal aluminum parallel condensers, except for the fittings, of course.

TRB on Sun June 28, 2009 4:02 PM User is offlineView users profile

That's a good design.

-------------------------

When considering your next auto A/C purchase, please consider the site that supports you: ACkits.com
Contact: ACKits.com

CCWKen on Sun June 28, 2009 11:44 PM User is offlineView users profile

Quote
Originally posted by: TRB
While smaller tubed copper T & F condensers running parallel are an improvement. It is by no means performs like the Aluminum PF condenser ACKits.com offers.

Huh? The heat transfer coefficient of copper is nearly twice that of aluminum. If you are talking about a specific design, then that may be different. That's probably why the aluminum tubes are larger--More surface area to compensate for the lower heat transfer. The only way to tell is to get the specs on the condensers. Aluminum is used in the fins because it releases the heat faster due to less mass. But the heat has to get to the fins.

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Ken Kopsky

Custom Car Works
"Rules are for the guidance of wise men and the obedience of fools."

TRB on Mon June 29, 2009 12:12 AM User is offlineView users profile

A round t&F condenser running parallel or not with never cool as well as an aluminum condenser with vaned passages of the same size.



-------------------------

When considering your next auto A/C purchase, please consider the site that supports you: ACkits.com
Contact: ACKits.com

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