Automotive Air Conditioning Information Forum (Archives)

Shepherd777 on Sat June 16, 2012 1:18 PM

Year: 2003
Make: Kenworth
Model: T2000
Engine Size: 15L ISX
Refrigerant Type: R134a
Ambient Temp: 75
Country of Origin: United States

Well, I originally had some problems with this setup as we TIG welded new compressor fittings, and they were leaking. That was explained in this thread:

Click here for the Original Post



But we bought some new fittings from AP Air, and that solved that problem.

Here is a brand new pic of the setup:




We tied into the OEM thermostat wiring and the unit works seamlessly and is transparent to the driver while using the OEM A/C temp and operating controls.

And for all the naysayers that said that the Sanden 4969-AFT would not work at all, and there were many, I think we have conclusively proven that this setup works.

We get 38 degree vent temps and we have been in southern Texas at close to 100F with no problems and exceptional cooling. That is amazing considering the combined volume of the cab and sleeper interior.

By the way, this whole setup is normally not visible on the truck. It is covered with a custom side skirt removable with Zeus fasteners, and it is protected in front by a HDPE flap behind the steering tire.


Edited: Sat June 16, 2012 at 1:43 PM by Shepherd777

CCWKen on Sun June 17, 2012 12:31 AM

What type of motor are you using to drive the compressor? Seems like it would draw a lot of current. I was thinking of doing the same thing with a farm tractor but couldn't settle on a motor.

-------------------------
Ken Kopsky

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

bohica2xo on Sun June 17, 2012 12:44 AM

So, two years later you have a working prototype.

Here is the original thread:

electric drive compressor for standby use


Are you no running the electric compressor only? No belt drive compressor at all?

What did you do about the alternator issue?

B.


-------------------------
"Among the many misdeeds of the British rule in India, history will look upon the act of depriving a whole nation of arms, as the blackest."
~ Mahatma Gandhi, Gandhi, An Autobiography, M. K. Gandhi, page 446.

Shepherd777 on Sun June 17, 2012 8:21 AM

Quote
Originally posted by: CCWKen
What type of motor are you using to drive the compressor? Seems like it would draw a lot of current. I was thinking of doing the same thing with a farm tractor but couldn't settle on a motor.


What type of motor are you using to drive the compressor?

It's a 12 volt heavy duty high-efficiency brushless motor.


Seems like it would draw a lot of current.

Correct. As one can see in the lower right portion of the pic, routed over that air tank we use 4/0 welding cable to handle the current. And in between those cable ends inside of that clear plastic cover is a 200 amp time-delay Class "T" fuse that we use to protect it.




Edited: Sun June 17, 2012 at 8:32 AM by Shepherd777

Shepherd777 on Sun June 17, 2012 8:27 AM

Quote
Originally posted by: bohica2xo
So, two years later you have a working prototype.



Are you running the electric compressor only?

Correct.


No belt drive compressor at all?

Correct.


What did you do about the alternator issue?

Same alternator as originally posted as supplied by one of our sponsors. Delco Remy 40si 300 amp. fuel-saving alternator.

bohica2xo on Sun June 17, 2012 2:28 PM

Wow, all the way to TX.

No, go put a loaded trailer behind it in Los Angeles. Drive it to Needles CA, and run the A/C all night on the batteries. Then drive it on in to Phoenix. Today, not in January.

Your system may be ok in CT. It would run that 300 amp alternator to death out here.

Where is the fuel savings with losses in both the alternator & electric motor? Do you make it up by carrying 500 lbs less freight?

B.

-------------------------
"Among the many misdeeds of the British rule in India, history will look upon the act of depriving a whole nation of arms, as the blackest."
~ Mahatma Gandhi, Gandhi, An Autobiography, M. K. Gandhi, page 446.