Onboard air from stock A/C compressor

[bighammer]

Maybe it's been covered (sorry) but I couldn't find it.



My 94 A/C system seems to have given up. I'm pretty sure the refrigerant has just leaked out so hopefully the compressor is still operational. Since A/C up north here is rarely (if ever) needed, I'm thinking about removing the un-needed parts (might leave the evaporator as a backup heater core ) and creating an onboard air setup.



I need info about the oiling of the compressor. I'm pretty sure I can figure out the wiring and plumbing. Any help, suggestions, or insights appreciated.

 

[moparguy]

Great idea. I'm not a ac guy, but the oil issue may be a deal killer since our units utilize oil in the refregriant. However, an old York unit from the salvage yard would work great.



Good luck, RJR

 

[JKlopp]

I have used an AC compressor for air pressure for many years on my jeep. The oil is not a problem, you only need to keep the level up. Sugest you add a small air tank with a pressure switch. When the compressor runs it needs to be automatically stopped like a shop compressor at around 120 PSI. If you forget and don't have the auto shut off switch, the compressor will continue up to around 400 PSI and your tank may explode requireing you to change your shorts. :-laf The tank will give you enough volume to run an air impact the next time you have a flat.



The evaporator coil could be used as a heater core but will require modifications. The standard circuiting of the coil will cause an excessive pressure drop and reduce the water flow to an unexceptable rate for heating your cab.

 

[cap-n-cray]

Bighammer,



Do a search for "Kilby On Board Air. " I am installing a Kilby air system and will write an article when I finish. Had some fit problems with a AFE filter clearance. Here are some Photos from Kilby.



I am installing a 5 gallon tank so I can use compressed air for my construction business.



Cary