removing the air conditioner from a 91 Vanagon (Camper)

[Reagan Penner]

Hey all, I have decided to remove my air conditioner as it has never worked well for me and with these little motors it's seem crazy to even bother with it. I figure I would rather have the space and less weight.

So with that in mind, has anyone out there ever done this before and if so is there any thing that I need to be aware of prior to undertaking this task. I guess what I am most curious about is what to do with the hoses should I just tie them off or remove them down to the compreser. I guess that raises another question should I remove the compresor as well?

anyway just looking for discussion - reagan

[DanJReed]

Well. I asked this, and the overwhelming reply I got was - No don't do it - it lowers its value.

I ditched my belt and kept the compressor and all hoses on. It still has some rare 87 R-12 in it. The PO never used it as it sucked off too much power and makes the engine get too warm.

IMHO, I am thinking of adapting some type of electric motor to the clutch,
and drive the compressor VIA e-power versus a belt. I'll still heat the engine up (from the condesor) but will have a smaller power loss (I think).

And asside from the weight savings, the only "space" you gain is where the motor and evep sit.

Not worth the hassle.. IMHO.
_________________
-Dan
(87 Westy Vanagon, 98 Jetta GLS 2.0, 95 Golf Sport)

[Reagan Penner]

Yeah not much space but any extra space is worth it. What I am really after is the space above the rear bench seat. On the models without the air conditioner this space is useable and I was really hoping to reclaim it. What is all up there just the evaporator or is there a motor up there as well?

cheers - reagan

[DanJReed]

Dual fan blower design, and a big evap unit. Be careful, its damn sharp.

You might as well yank out the vents as well, and gain a little more head room. They come down pretty easy. There are a few screws that you get to with the top up from the upper bunk that screw down into it.

I had mine out last year when I added a reading light.
_________________
-Dan
(87 Westy Vanagon, 98 Jetta GLS 2.0, 95 Golf Sport)

[mlf]

just don't scrap it ,save it for later ,if u try to resell ,

[Reagan Penner]

Good advise, I will definitly save the everything that I rip out. I like to be able to put things back to stock if need be.

thanks for the discussion - reagan