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Daytona A/C Upgrades?

Discussion in 'Vintage (thru 365 GTC4)' started by murphyrg1, Feb 11, 2022.

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  1. murphyrg1

    murphyrg1 Karting
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    Oct 10, 2012
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    San Luis Obispo, CA
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    Rory Murphy
    #1 murphyrg1, Feb 11, 2022
    I've seen some older threads about improving the performance and reliability of the Dino A/C system, but haven't found anything similar for Daytonas. I know many of the parts are similar or the same, but in the interest of not re-inventing the wheel, I had hoped that someone had been down this road with a Daytona before. We're open to any suggestions, from barrier lined hoses, improved expansion valves or evaporator, higher output compressor, etc. Since it's a bolt-on mod (and piston A/C compressors are an abomination), we would even consider a rotary compressor if that is what it takes to get this system to actually work in hot weather. We have a small supply of R12 refrigerant, so that should help a little.

    Thanks for any ideas or leads.
    Rory
     
  2. garybobileff

    garybobileff Formula 3
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    Feb 5, 2004
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    Gary
    #2 garybobileff, Feb 12, 2022
    Over the years,
    I have modified well over 2 dozen Daytona a/c systems with great success. Installing a rotary compressor is great, as it will rob the motor of less horsepower, but doesn't do anything to make the a/c more effective. If all components function normally, the vent output temperature can go as low as 34 degrees F. But the problem is the lack of air flow. After exiting the top of the dash vents, it is immediately warmed by the sun and glass, and by the time the air struggles to get to the driver, it's lost all it's potency. My modifications increase the air flow substantially, so the driver really feels the chill. This is not scientific, but prior to modification, the driver's hair doesn't move when the blower is on high speed. With my modification, the driver's hair is ruffled, not a lot, but some, enough for a very good cooling effect.
     
    -K1- likes this.
  3. swift53

    swift53 F1 Veteran
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    Alberto
    #3 swift53, Feb 13, 2022
    Someone, a long time ago, mentioned a Mercedes fan blower. Never heard back, but certainly would ruffle hair :)
    If anyone knows, please chime in.

    Rebards, Alberto
     
  4. TTR

    TTR F1 Veteran
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    Timo
    #4 TTR, Feb 13, 2022
    What about feathers ? :eek:

    While I don’t have Gary’s experience nor studied its effects on driver hair, I designed/engineered my own successful “upgrades” for Daytona A/C years ago, but didn’t get chances to test them until recently (within last couple of years).
    Improvements appear significant.
     
  5. murphyrg1

    murphyrg1 Karting
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    Rory Murphy
    #5 murphyrg1, Feb 13, 2022
    I'm glad I asked - increasing the blower flow wasn't even on my list of possible low hanging fruit.

    Thanks,
    Rory
     
  6. Zarathustra

    Zarathustra Formula Junior

    May 7, 2006
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    Hawaii
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    Gary Robinson
    #6 Zarathustra, Feb 13, 2022
    Gary Bobileff recently converted my Daytona to 134a and installed one of his custom, higher-flow evaporator units.
    The cooling and flow are significantly better...about as good as it gets with the meager vents.
    It was worth it to me because I need all the help I can get in Hawaii.
     
  7. murphyrg1

    murphyrg1 Karting
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    Rory Murphy
    #7 murphyrg1, Feb 15, 2022
    Thanks - nothing like a personal recommendation. I'll be giving Gary a call to get the details from him.

    Regards,
    Rory
     

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