AC step-by-step

I know Carl Rose has done it for his 328..not sure if its posted here though.

 

Just go to a local auto supply store and get HAYNES AC service manual. It has all of the info you need. There is nothing unique about the Ferrari AC system. It will explane how the system works and hot to evacuate, pump down and refill. Also give you info on how to look for leaks. Pretty straight forward. I've done it multiple times on various cars including my 308. Good luck.

 

Are you planning on converting from R12? If not you should probably try an A/C shop
for the recharge. Be prepared for sticker shock on the price of R12.

 

Im not sure what the costs are in the US but it would probably be cheaper for you to have a shop do it for you by the time you bought a set of guages,vac pump and the gas itself.

 

It probably depends on how many times you would use the equipment. With many of the old R-12 systems recharging is necessary on a more frequest basis than 134a, but R-12 is typically more efficient in older cars w/ undersized evaporators and condensers. There are several places where the equipment can be bought in kit form such as:

http://www.ackits.com/c/Parallel/Parallel+Flow+Condensers+-+Aluminum.html

You can also typically find R-12 on flea-bay, although it is pricey.

 

I concur with the advice to have it done professionally. IMHO buying the tools/R12 (if you can buy R12 at all - any states I have lived in, you can't unless you are licensed) isn't worth the expense/trouble. It doesn't cost that much to have somebody else do it.

 

Go to this link and then to the DIY Maintenance Experiences. Carl's AC write up is there. You will need Adobe 9.0 to open the pdf file.

http://www.ferrarichat.com/forum/showthread.php?t=157187

 

Has anyone been successful in connecting the gauge set to the compressor by reaching under the airbox (with the intake ducting and airbox in place as noted on page 73)?

 

I have put both hi and low gauges on my 1980 gtbi w the original ac. Took some reaching back of the bonnet. Also helped having a mirror on an extension to get things lined up right. Even then it took probably 15 minutes because none of my joints bend right. Found I needed to scope it out thoroughly into my mind then close eyes and work by feel blind.

With engine running, I use a small external 12v battery and some clips to the clutch soas to control the clutch at my whim, not the max/min/on-off switches. My gauges are 15 yo Harbour Freight R12 type.

 

they make 90 degree fittings you can add to the compressors for service work. i am going with a rotary compressor this month once my new euro valance is painted to match the car. i am switching the car to 134a, and replacing the compressor, expansion valve and dryer. you also need a york / sanden conversion plate. all told, $350.00 plus labor, and i have a buddy who is doing the work.

i would do it once, and do it right by converting it to a rotary. the a/c shop can provide the 90 degree fittings, which make future services take mere minutes, we have done this to 3 local 308s so far. they had ice cold a/c when we were done, and the system did not bog the carb cars down at all.

 

Carl has also done some good write-up's on engine/gearbox oil changes,ect. Always a good reference, I use then often.