Truck AC/Heat Instructions

[mbisett]

I am assuming that the instructions for installing AC/Heat is the same as the "Hot Rod AC" instructions. Is that correct?

I am installing a LS3 with auto transmission so I am looking for pictures of the AC Bulkhead, firewall and Engine Bay hoses , dryer, etc. locations to get a better idea of how to plan to mount all the hardware, hoses, etc.

[edwardb]

I can't confirm whether you have the right instructions. I didn't use Factory Five's AC setup in my truck build. I used a Vintage Air setup since there was plenty of room for it. But I did use Factory Five's system in my Coupe build. Their instructions are decent. They account for all the parts, the wiring, etc. But at least in my experience, they don't provide the level of detail it sounds like you're looking for. There are so many variations of engines, installations, etc. that they don't try to account for them all. There are pictures in their instructions, but typically are stock pictures that may or may not work with your build. You're on your own with where to place components like the receiver/dryer, heater valve, hose routing, etc. Best to have the engine installed and then route however it makes sense. FWIW, there are quite a few pictures in my truck build thread so maybe that's helpful. Also an LS3 with an automatic.

[Dmp0001]

The Hot Rod and truck should be the same for this.

[FatherAndSon]

I won't be much help as I've only gotten a little into this, but here are some pictures of the evaporator and bulkhead fittings as they look like when installing the F5 supplied unit in the location specified by their instructions.

Also to note, and I'm just now running into this, if you put them here, you won't be able to mount the coolant overflow tank in this spot and will have to figure something else out. I've found a few posts on the forum that show it in other locations.
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/show...r-Conditioning

Here was a discussion about A/C line routing in case it helps:
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/show...C-line-routing

203504203505

[mbisett]

Thank you! This does help me understand where FF suggests installing it. I have seen others that have been mounted lower on the same side, which may work better.

[Denim Chicken]

No intent to hi-jack as its a relevant question, what are you guys doing for the initial charge on the system? I assume the best approach is to let a ‘professional’ do the initial charge, but the ‘professionals’ where I live have earned the air quotes.

[edwardb]

No intent to hi-jack as its a relevant question, what are you guys doing for the initial charge on the system? I assume the best approach is to let a ‘professional’ do the initial charge, but the ‘professionals’ where I live have earned the air quotes.

I bought a HF vacuum pump and a middle-of-the road gauge set on Amazon. Total about $200. I do my own. It's not hard. Lots of YouTube videos. One or two times and the investment pays for itself. I've done two builds with A/C plus the usual seasonal checking and sometimes slight added freon. More than paid for itself plus I don't have shops that aren't really interested messing with them. The only thing I can't do is intentionally evacuate a charged system. Illegal plus a bad idea. That takes a heavy duty machine. I figure if needed, I will visit a shop but for a limited purpose.

[Denim Chicken]

Thanks! Great info. I cringe at the thought of letting some idiot work on a kit like ours. I’ve had nothing but bad luck with AC service, so the idea of getting the proper tools and doing the work myself is very attractive.