TheSamba.com :: View topic - Overhead A/C from a late model vanagon in '78 bus

Wed Aug 22, 2007 12:27 pm

I'm wanting to try installing an overhead A/C unit from a late model(post '86) Vanagon into my 1978 Baywindow Bus. This A/C unit is the one that has the evaporator and blowers housed in the very back with ducts running the length of the van to the control unit/duct housing in the front. I'm not exactly sure if the unit will fit. Does anyone out there have a late model Vanagon, and can give me the dimensions of the overhead A/C unit. Also, does anyone know what model sanden compressor will fit a 1978 Bus? The compressor sits backwards and the clutch spins counter clockwise.

Wed Aug 22, 2007 4:41 pm

Post it in the Vanagon forums also , you know you can make it fit but you will have to be creative too. good luck

Wed Aug 22, 2007 5:37 pm

You will need a Honda compressor (turns backwards), preferrably pre 87-88 (I think) , earlier ones still use a V belt as opposed to the multi rib.

You're on your own for a bracket.

Wed Aug 22, 2007 10:05 pm

Joyboy99 wrote: I'm wanting to try installing an overhead A/C unit from a late model(post '86) Vanagon into my 1978 Baywindow Bus. This A/C unit is the one that has the evaporator and blowers housed in the very back with ducts running the length of the van to the control unit/duct housing in the front. I'm not exactly sure if the unit will fit. Does anyone out there have a late model Vanagon, and can give me the dimensions of the overhead A/C unit. Also, does anyone know what model sanden compressor will fit a 1978 Bus? The compressor sits backwards and the clutch spins counter clockwise. Why not just get the stuff that wil fit a 78. Bays are narrower than Vanagons. and the compressor is a little strange, too. but does not turn backwards.
Al