A/C Compressor rebuilding service

[Michael J.]

I am working on my '66 427 that has A/C, and it appears the compressor I have is the original item, but the shaft is frozen and will not turn, but the clutch is fine. Anyone know of a rebuilder that could do this? I looked in Driveline but saw nothing. Thanks!

[Leif A.]

Re: A/C Compressor rebuilding service

Michael,
You probably know that Domenic Tallarita is the very best but he is probably not doing any work right now, as he is dealing with his son's situation.

[Mark E.]

Re: A/C Compressor rebuilding service

I also planned to send Dom the original A6 on my '70. I spoke with him at length prior to the incident with his son, and seemed like like a skillful, honest resource.

An alternate plan I spoke with him about is to put the original on the shelf, and install a new A6 with a repo label. Be sure to get the right configuration. For early C3 this means the coil is clocked at 10, a plain rear plate (no ports for high pressure or high temp switches), and a 5" clutch. I found many application guides often do not distinguish between these differences, so the buyer needs to know what's correct.

Dom shared this was a viable path as well.

[Michael J.]

Re: A/C Compressor rebuilding service

Thanks guys, I was afraid this would be near impossible, and with Dom's situation, I guess it is impossible. I just hated to install a Chinese replacement part when I had the original sitting there, but maybe that is the only way.

[Leif A.]

Re: A/C Compressor rebuilding service

Thanks guys, I was afraid this would be near impossible, and with Dom's situation, I guess it is impossible. I just hated to install a Chinese replacement part when I had the original sitting there, but maybe that is the only way.

Michael,
If you want/need to wait for Dom's situation to level off, you might consider a Pro6Ten compressor. Hooks up using ALL the factory mounts and hoses and only weighs 3 lbs vs 12 lbs for the original A6. Just a thought. I'm running one and am very satisfied.
P.S. Picture shows clutch guard...not really necessary with this unit.

[Michael J.]

Re: A/C Compressor rebuilding service

I guess it works well, right? How many points do you lose in judging?

[Leif A.]

Re: A/C Compressor rebuilding service

The compressor can score 5 points for originality and 3 for condition...you lose all 8 points with the Pro6Ten. But, with the rest of the system being stock, then that's all you lose. Not so bad in the grand scheme of things.

[Michael J.]

Re: A/C Compressor rebuilding service

True, that's not bad, I guess it is the same with one of the rebuilt or new A6 compressors people like Paragon or Zip sell. And it is only 1 point more than you lose with a Restoration Battery............

[Larry M.]

Re: A/C Compressor rebuilding service

ALMA Products in Michigan sells both NEW and rebuilt A6 compressors. The new are identical to original except for metric dimensions on machined surfaces, and the decal. It has modern double lip seal, and a chrome shaft for durability. Not certain if all is USA made, but a good possibility.

They sell directly (I believe) and thru dealers. Call and inquire. Then replace the decal and get just about all your Judging Points.

I would buy new vs rebuilt, but I am certain high quality is there for both.

Larry

EDIT: Here is a link: http://www.almaproducts.com/Transtar...s/A6-Flier.pdf

[Mark E.]

Re: A/C Compressor rebuilding service

ALMA Products in Michigan sells both NEW and rebuilt A6 compressors. The new are identical to original except for metric dimensions on machined surfaces, and the decal. It has modern double lip seal, and a chrome shaft for durability. Not certain if all is USA made, but a good possibility.

They sell directly (I believe) and thru dealers. Call and inquire. Then replace the decal and get just about all your Judging Points.

I would buy new vs rebuilt, but I am certain high quality is there for both.

Larry

EDIT: Here is a link: http://www.almaproducts.com/Transtar...s/A6-Flier.pdf

Alma is the new A6 I'm considering. I called and it's a USA product. Apparently a lot of tractors, trucks, RVs use these hence a new supply is still available.

Metric threads on mounting holes and lack of codes on back plate are only obvious cosmetic differences I know about. Manifold covers codes on my original so can't. Easily see that anyway. I've heard these new A6s with improved internals are very reliable. Dom said many rebuilders do not address internal rust problems in the core, plus some parts are not available to rebuilders. So commercial rebuilt units can be a crap shoot.

I found three different modern compressors which are bolt on A6 replacements. Even use original manifold and brackets. They're cheaper, take less space, and lighter than a new A6, and claim to be quieter and use less HP. Look a lot different though. I'm travelling and typing on the phone so don't have my notes, but these can be found by Dr Google.

[Mark E.]

Re: A/C Compressor rebuilding service

4 Seasons also makes new A6 compressors, but only with the coil clocked at 2. May be right for some years, but not C3. Don't know where they're made. AZ sells these at a great price, and with a lifetime warranty if you also buy their drier and expansion valve. Both are replacement parts and don't look original.

[Mark E.]

Re: A/C Compressor rebuilding service

Michael,
If you want/need to wait for Dom's situation to level off, you might consider a Pro6Ten compressor. Hooks up using ALL the factory mounts and hoses and only weighs 3 lbs vs 12 lbs for the original A6. Just a thought. I'm running one and am very satisfied.
P.S. Picture shows clutch guard...not really necessary with this unit.

Good to know. 4 seasons also makes a bolt on replacement. The other replacement is called S6 but don't know the brand or country of origin.

[Larry M.]

Re: A/C Compressor rebuilding service

4 Seasons also makes new A6 compressors, but only with the coil clocked at 2. May be right for some years, but not C3. Don't know where they're made. AZ sells these at a great price, and with a lifetime warranty if you also buy their drier and expansion valve. Both are replacement parts and don't look original.

As far as I know, the clutch electrical (coil) can be positioned at both 10 and 2 positions, but you must disassemble it to make this change. You could call the company and ask if this is a concern. This was/is possible with the original Harrisons.

Larry

[Michael J.]

Re: A/C Compressor rebuilding service

Old Air Products, in Ft. Worth, has A6 compressors with both 10 and 2 clocked positions, new and rebuilt.

[Mark E.]

Re: A/C Compressor rebuilding service

Old Air Products, in Ft. Worth, has A6 compressors with both 10 and 2 clocked positions, new and rebuilt.

I spoke with them a couple weeks ago. They source new ones from Alma/apco. Another source for these is ackits.com in AZ. Good prices.