[T2] Bus A/C

[David Schwarze]

Wow, a lot of questions!  :-)

The compressor was a Sanden SD-508 if I recall.  Bought it used.  It has no pistons, it is a rotary compressor.

I used the factory condenser.  It is not ideal, but at least it is large.
Temps at the vents vary depending on fan speed and outside temp.  Can be anywhere from low 40s (low fan speed, 80 degrees outside) to low 60s (high fan speed, 100 degrees outside).
Yes I think newer/additional condenser would help, as would more airflow through the condenser.  I used the stock fans which don't move very much air.
No thermostat, it never gets cold enough to freeze the evaporator.
I used freeze-12 at one time, but went to 134a because it was cheaper and I didn't need a license to buy it.  I think the freeze-12 did work a little better.
The stock system used an expansion valve and I stuck with that.
I had all new hoses made at a shop that specializes in that sort of thing (big trucks, hydraulics, etc).  Cost about $250 for all of the hoses and fittings.  I kept all of the R-12 connectors since I will be the last owner of my bus (after 25 years, I'm pretty sure of that).

I have had lots of issues over the years, can't cover them all here.  Feel free to ask specific questions.  My system does seem to be limited by the condenser and/or airflow, I bet a condenser designed for 134a with better airflow would help.  But, it's still a godsend to have it.

Here is a picture from about 8 years ago before the TD conversion.  I made a bracket to hold the compressor and a second alternator (from a BMW 5-series) on top of the fan housing.  It is driven by a Porsche 912 drive pulley assembly:

http://motorheads.net/vw/DCP_5495.JPG

It would probably be easier to use the kit that Bus Depot sells...

-David



--- volknstein at yahoo.com wrote:

From: David Kelly <volknstein at yahoo.com>
To: Rob <vwrobb at gmail.com>
Cc: David Schwarze <dschwarze at dfwair.net>, "type2 at type2.com" <type2 at type2.com>
Subject: Re: [T2] Bus A/C
Date: Sun, 21 Jul 2013 22:52:29 -0700

Hey Dave,

What type of compressor did you use? 5 piston, 7 piston, adjustable output? Probably Sanden right?

I have an overhead unit that I will be installing. Did you use the factory condenser or a new one? What temperatures are you getting at the vent?  Do you think adding a second condenser and using newer style electric fans would help? Is there a thermostat that cuts off the compressor to keep the evaporator from freezing up? Did you use R 134a or R12 or an aftermarket " freeze 12" type of freon? Expansion valve or oriface tube? Did you have new hoses made? I kept the old hoses for reference but i will probably have new ones made. Any issues or advise would be appreciated. 


David Kelly

On Jul 21, 2013, at 6:38 AM, Rob <vwrobb at gmail.com> wrote:

> At  7/21/2013 01:23 AM,David Schwarze wrote:
> >>I am running a newer rotary style compressor with the original dealer installed ac on my bus.  it is worth  it here in Texas.
> 
> David<<
>