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R4 to Sanden conversion

Smokey65662 on Thu June 06, 2013 10:15 PM User is offlineView users profile

Year: 1993
Make: Chevrolet
Model: C1500
Engine Size: 5.7L 350
Refrigerant Type: R134A
Ambient Temp: 90+
Country of Origin: United States

Hello,

Long time casual reader of the forum here and im looking to completely replace the AC system in my truck while I have it apart for a restore. I have done research for a good three months now making sure to gather all the information I thought I needed to make this work. Now that I am ready to start gathering my parts I want to pass it by others to make sure im not missing anything here.

- New parallel flow condenser (universal mount)
- New plate and fin style evaporator (OE)
- New Sanden SD7H15 compressor. Ear mount. Will also get the mounting brackets needed.
- New Dryer/accumulator
- barrier hose with new fittings crimped on. (All new hoses)
- New Blower Motor. Will also be replacing all the rubber seals in the HVAC box.
- New AC Delco fan clutch

Since the new condenser is a universal unit I will have to relocate the OT to the evaporator (GM put the OT in the outlet of the condenser). I wasn't sure how to go about doing that but I think this part will do exactly what I need it to. (http://shop.advanceautoparts.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_evaporator-repair-kit-factory-air_5898021-p?searchTerm=evaporator)

When it comes to choosing the new OT should I go with the GM white or switch to the Ford blue like everyone recommends when switching over to R134A?

Please let me know if I missed anything.

mazda626awd on Fri June 07, 2013 10:21 AM User is offline

Was this origionally R12 or 134?
I'm sorry for asking but what is OT?

Smokey65662 on Fri June 07, 2013 12:45 PM User is offlineView users profile

This was originally an R12 system. The system was converted to R134a some time before I got it but it looked like nothing was changed but the compressor. The cooling has always been very sub par.

OT is short for Orifice Tube

iceman2555 on Fri June 07, 2013 4:18 PM User is offlineView users profile

The majority of the new replacement condensers are spec'd for 134a. There are several companies that offer this unit that will bolt into your vehicle. These units will utilize the factory OT location and the correct hose connections. Replacement hose assemblies are barrier type units.
Replacement of the compressor with a Sanden...your choice. Just never had a R4 that would not perform and give very satisfactory service.
The OE evaporator will not have a location for the installation of a orifice tube....it will be necessary to mount a inline filter with a orifice or locate an evap from an earlier model vehicle (prior to 88) that would have the orifice tube in the evap inlet.
Appears that there is a list of expensive parts and repairs that are not necessary. There are more simple repairs for this vehicle. But then is not my cash or time.
Good luck with your repairs.....!

-------------------------
The strongest reason for the people to retain the right to keep and bear arms is, as a last resort, to protect themselves against tyranny in government.
Thomas Jefferson

Smokey65662 on Fri June 07, 2013 8:23 PM User is offlineView users profile

I know it seems silly to put as much money in this as I am willing to, but it has a lot of sentimental value to me and I want to do it right and be done with it. The evaporator that I bought a few months ago (was on sale) came with an orifice tube. Is it commonplace to include the OT with the evaporator even if it doesn't accept one? Also, will that part that I listed work for providing a location for the OT?

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