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Mon Jun 19, 2023 3:34 pm

Hey all...I'm deep in a full overhaul on the factory AC in my 1991 Vanagon.

Currently I'm installing a new parallel condensor, new drier, new compressor and having all the existing lines remade with modern barrier hose.

I pulled the evaporator and flushed it. It seems fine, but was curious about the green material wrapped around it. Still seems like it is in good shape. Should I leave this as is or take this off the evaporator?

Mon Jun 19, 2023 3:44 pm

Take it off and clean it, then reinstall or replace. My Westy needs the same attention. I had the interior out years ago and should have done the hoses and parts at that time but did not.

Mon Jun 19, 2023 4:29 pm

Good move rebuilding your A/C!

I rebuilt my 90 and had great results......
You might find this thread helpful ......

https://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=748346

Also there are known wiring issues with the rear fans.
To prevent a possible fire you might consider doing some rewiring.
This is something that I've yet to do.......

https://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=757441

Dave

Mon Jun 19, 2023 6:59 pm

Hello,

I wonder what replacement foam people use? I’m also redoing my AC and my foam is not looking as good as yours.

Thanks

Mathieu

Tue Jun 20, 2023 3:41 am

It is just a thin open cell foam. There is no mystery about the product.

There are many discussions on its purpose.

Some claim it is a filter, it catches air borne dirt before it clogs the evaporator.
As far as the filter theory goes, I feel it is a poor filter.
I've made a proper filter using common house furnace filters, easy to do if you have the head banger camper set up.

Some feel it is a barrier to keep condensation in the evaporator and not get blown out by the fan.
I believe this to be true, the foam catches the water particles and direct them to the drip tray.

I chose to leave the foam out to enhance air flow through the evaporator coil.

If you want foam, seek out air filter prefilter foam.

Tue Jun 20, 2023 2:47 pm

Thanks for the input.

My next issue is the compressor. I ordered a new Sanden from Go Westy, but the back is not the same as my original. It's close, but not exact. Some people say trim the one pipe.

I'm wondering if I should just be finding a Sanden that has threaded ports. Then the AC shop making the hoses would have a standard ports to deal with?

Tue Jun 20, 2023 3:09 pm

I would remove and replace the old foam, it will deteriorate sooner or later and you might as well take care of it now.

I used a synthetic furnace filter material to wrap mine (blue stuff) that's designed to catch dust but still allow easy airflow.
It's one of those deals where if the factory thought it was needed then there was a reason. Automakers rarely spend money on unnecessary items.