T3--Under dash aftermarket AC unit review//install
Posted: Wed Aug 03, 2011 8:08 pm
EDIT--- I originally was going to make this 914 and T3, but on a 914, it appears so easy it's not even fair.
Split topic to add to T3 forum.
***********************
This is an unsolicited review of an under-dash "universal" auto AC evaporator/blower unit purchased from action-ac.com
They happen to be well within 1 hour driving range of me In Irving, Texas, but UPS is cheaper. Really.
I have no other relationship with them, don't know them from Bob etc.
This was $102, plus tax plus shipping, $122
This SPECIFIC unit is going in a 73 Squareback, but there's little difference as I have a T4 motor in my square, and it's running/driving and the 914 needs extensive bodywork after our very close to Come to Jesus meeting with the semi.
Anyway, Tonights episode is basically going to be first impressions: How's it packed, look/feel, mount setup and pics.
(add pic of box etc)
The unit is packed like it's designed to survive a ship voyage from Thailand, where this unit is made.
First impression--- Nice. This is going to fit.
I shortly realized that this actually appears MUCH better made than the original dealer under dash aftermarket units, and a whole lot better mounted.
The quality of the plastic injection molding is ~ OEM quality, the DRD units appear vacuum molded from flat sheet (kynar?) stock.
(I have the original `70s DRD unit for my the Pile 914 that was dealer installed and in great condition)
The mounts attach to sliding metal nutserts in a metal bracket inside the unit--- appears attached to the evaporator itself.
(will tear down and have a look later)
Drivers view of front of unit, table is 24" wide for scale
It ships with that welded adjustable mount, a nice front hanger strap, drain hose w/T and an inline fuse setup for power. Outside ball vents are rotate-able and have a handy little tongue sticking out to grab.
Center vents go up/down L/R and can be turned to ~closed by rotating up/down.
Drivers Side view Passengers side view, also shows gaslines with pre-installed expansion valve etc. Tomorrow AM I'll test hang it in the square and maybe a 914 just to see how it fits.
(If the heat doesn't kill me first)
Split topic to add to T3 forum.
***********************
This is an unsolicited review of an under-dash "universal" auto AC evaporator/blower unit purchased from action-ac.com
They happen to be well within 1 hour driving range of me In Irving, Texas, but UPS is cheaper. Really.
I have no other relationship with them, don't know them from Bob etc.
This was $102, plus tax plus shipping, $122
This SPECIFIC unit is going in a 73 Squareback, but there's little difference as I have a T4 motor in my square, and it's running/driving and the 914 needs extensive bodywork after our very close to Come to Jesus meeting with the semi.
Anyway, Tonights episode is basically going to be first impressions: How's it packed, look/feel, mount setup and pics.
(add pic of box etc)
The unit is packed like it's designed to survive a ship voyage from Thailand, where this unit is made.
First impression--- Nice. This is going to fit.
I shortly realized that this actually appears MUCH better made than the original dealer under dash aftermarket units, and a whole lot better mounted.
The quality of the plastic injection molding is ~ OEM quality, the DRD units appear vacuum molded from flat sheet (kynar?) stock.
(I have the original `70s DRD unit for my the Pile 914 that was dealer installed and in great condition)
The mounts attach to sliding metal nutserts in a metal bracket inside the unit--- appears attached to the evaporator itself.
(will tear down and have a look later)
Drivers view of front of unit, table is 24" wide for scale
It ships with that welded adjustable mount, a nice front hanger strap, drain hose w/T and an inline fuse setup for power. Outside ball vents are rotate-able and have a handy little tongue sticking out to grab.
Center vents go up/down L/R and can be turned to ~closed by rotating up/down.
Drivers Side view Passengers side view, also shows gaslines with pre-installed expansion valve etc. Tomorrow AM I'll test hang it in the square and maybe a 914 just to see how it fits.
(If the heat doesn't kill me first)