Adding Factory AC to a 1970 Small Block Convertible Thoughts

[Michael L.]

Hi All
A friend and I were desisting how feasible it would be to add factory AC to his 1970 Small Block Convertible.
This a nice Car it in good shape. Just looking for your thoughts. How hard wild the parts be to find?
Will the Engine need to come out ?
Thanks in advance.
Michael

[Mark E.]

Re: Adding Factory AC to a 1970 Small Block Convertible Thoughts

I removed and replaced the evaporator box on '70 454 with the engine in place, so I see no need to remove the engine.

For your parts list, the C60 section of AIM is your friend. No doubt the list is long with fiddly parts.

Two approaches for your consideration:
- Harder and more expensive: Acquire a donor car with AC.
- Easier, faster and less expensive: Sell this car; buy another with AC.

JMHO

[Tim G.]

Re: Adding Factory AC to a 1970 Small Block Convertible Thoughts

I agree with Mark, from an economic standpoint it would be better to buy a Corvette with AC.

[David H.]

Re: Adding Factory AC to a 1970 Small Block Convertible Thoughts

Michael

Vintage Air?

Dave

[Bob D.]

Re: Adding Factory AC to a 1970 Small Block Convertible Thoughts

Vintage air or Old Air Products

Bob

[Mark E.]

Re: Adding Factory AC to a 1970 Small Block Convertible Thoughts

Question for the market experts: Which commands a higher price- a clean car with no AC, or the same car with aftermarket AC?

It's not all about $, but for C2 and C3 I wonder if spending the time and money installing AC at best doesn't decrease value.

[Michael L.]

Re: Adding Factory AC to a 1970 Small Block Convertible Thoughts

Hi All
Looked and Considered aftermarket AC But can not stand the look of it.It just ruins the looks of the engine compartment.
Also from a judging prospective it would be real bad. This is a very nice car to start with. It was judged several years ago and was a Top Flight Car. This Car would not be very friendly to drive in the majority of the year here in thew Deep South with heat and humidity here.
Thanks in advance
Michael

[David H.]

Re: Adding Factory AC to a 1970 Small Block Convertible Thoughts

Question for the market experts: Which commands a higher price- a clean car with no AC, or the same car with aftermarket AC?

It's not all about $, but for C2 and C3 I wonder if spending the time and money installing AC at best doesn't decrease value.

Mark

No expert but, expect it adds value. Resto-mod popular because of classic look with modern conveniences.

Most buyers at auction currently seem favor these modified cars. "Modders" seem to seek out original cars just to make their work easier - don't have to correct someone else's earlier "customizations".

Dave

[Mark E.]

Re: Adding Factory AC to a 1970 Small Block Convertible Thoughts

It's risky tearing into a 53 year old dash and console. Especially when changing duct work, vacuum system, climate controls. The probability of something not breaking and everything working properly afterwards is about nil.

Which means you get to tear into the dash and console again...

[Bill M.]

[David H.]

Re: Adding Factory AC to a 1970 Small Block Convertible Thoughts

re Aftermarket AC

... Also from a judging prospective it would be real bad. ...

Michael

Standard Deduction Guideline #9 Added or Deleted Options, in your case added, would be subject to a full deduction on Originality and Condition if detected.

You are rolling dice on judges missing added "original" air conditioning. Aftermarket AC per SDG #9 has even harsher penalty.

Dave

[Mark F.]

Re: Adding Factory AC to a 1970 Small Block Convertible Thoughts

and here's a fairly recent string on the judging point deductions likely to be seen...

https://www.forums.ncrs.org/showthread.php?125100-Judging-Deductions-for-Added-A-C-300-Points&highlight=point+deduct+added+vintage+air