Birdie2000

iTrader: (15)

Has anyone ever just deleted the A/C compressor and lines from the engine bay without removing the A/C box on the firewall? How did you block off the inlets on the box so everything stays clean inside the remaining system?

Before anyone asks why I would want to do such a crazy thing since most people remove the A/C to get rid of that ugly box, I'll explain. I have a nice motor that's ultimately destined for my more race-oriented f-body project, but I'm going to temporarily put it in my "street" car to have fun with this summer while I gather the money to finish the "race" car. Well, this engine uses Jesel shaft-mount rockers so it would be much easier to just relocate the alternator (already have a kit from the other car) and delete the A/C compressor than spending the time/money trying to get it all to work with modifying the valve cover and such. Because this is only temporary though, I'd like to be able to put the A/C back on easily when the old engine goes back into this car.

I haven't taken the system apart yet so I don't know what the connectors look like. Would some simple rubber caps like for blocking off heater hoses work?

fex77k

iTrader: (2)

I found some old lines and cut the ends of and made some plugs for the AC box. Kept the whole system clean till I removed the rest of it from the firewall.

blacktrans97am

iTrader: (6)

I have an aluminum block off plate for mine. Rubber caps would work if my memory serves me correctly.

Birdie2000

iTrader: (15)

Could you by chance get a pic of this? This was along the lines of what I originally envisioned and am curious to see how you made it.

Using old lines is another good idea too.

Thanks!

RamAir95TA

iTrader: (2)

It sounds like you're slightly overcomplicating the removal. Just remove the two lines from the AC box and plug them with pipe plugs or rubber caps to keep the evaporator clean. I think the previous poster is talking about removing the entire box which you clearly state you don't want to do. And since you want to reuse everything I would ensure you block off the suction/discharge ports on the compressor and also put tape over the lines to keep everything clean. Dirt and debris in the system will cause issues with the efficiency of the system.

Remove the compressor, condenser, and all of the lines and you're done.

Birdie2000

iTrader: (15)

I probably am, I have a tendency to do that. Like you mentioned, I just don't want to mess up the A/C system in the process since we all know how pricey they can be to fix.

Thanks!

blacktrans97am

iTrader: (6)

I was not talking about removing the entire box...just covering up the holes with something that will look nice than rubber caps. Basically what I did was remake the proportioning valve that is between the lines and the box, but without the extra holes. It was not complicated at all. Tape measure, few drill bits, and a chunk of metal.

RamAir95TA

iTrader: (2)

Seems like a bunch of work when all you need are a few two dollar pipe plugs.

Whatever works!

blacktrans97am

iTrader: (6)

A bunch of work is the difference between a bay that looks all hacked up and one that looks good.

Whatever works!

CamaroRacing12

iTrader: (5)

hah i dont even think i plugged mine lol

TheTransporter69

iTrader: (5)

I just used 2 bolts. It was a bitch to find the right ones I remember.

Fastredz28

Just did this today all I could say it's a pita.. But does make the engine bay look clean!