Retrofit Air Conditioning

[stefano csl]

I really want to fit air con to the CSL as I want to drive to Spain late Summer. There seems to be far more cars with air con on the other side of the pond, and much fewer here in Europe. Is it better to get a "modern system" fitted, and if so does anyone know of a kit than can be fitted or adapted for the E9, or should I try to soruce all the various bit needed to retrofit an "original" system? Also, were the original systems any good? Have contacted a couple of UK air con specialists, but no one seems that interested or knowledgeable. Any help or advice would be gratefully accepted.

Thanks

 

[Bwana]

I'm gathering up the parts to install a U.S. system into an Italian spec CSi. Not sure how I'm going to deal with the D-Jet system but I think a solenoid on the throttle, connected to the compressor switch, will do the trick when the compressor engages at idle. No problem when on the road.

I've heard the factory systems are average at best. If you're going from the "ground up" it would probably be better to get a system designed for R134, the original systems use R12. Still available but expensive. It might be hard to duplicate the expansion valve/evaporator/fan assembly and have it all fit in the center consol, if you're going for an "original" look. Otherwise, try to source an original evaporator/fan assembly for sizing dimensions.

Happily we're up to our ears over here with hot rod custom A/C shops so we have lots of options. I don't remember any at all when we lived in London.

 

[x_atlas0]

There was an excellent thread by thehackmechanic a little while ago that detailed some of his past experiences with the AC system. There have been many AC threads in the past. Take a look around and you will find a good bit of information, although as Bwana put it, it will likely have shops on the other side of the pond, compared to your location.

 

[stefano csl]

Thanks guys,
A search on internet brings up dozens of proffesional, helpful and competent looking outfits specialising in custom fits, and at reasonable money across the USA. In the UK we're about thirty years adrift and I get alot of "BMW 3 series? Oh, you're better off buying one with air con fitted mate!" or alot of sighing and then "Don't think we can help. Do you really need air con?" There just not interested in doing anything that requires a little thought, work or aplication.

Thanks for you're input and I have found some leads going back on previous threads to follow up. If anyone knows of a UK outfit that may help out on a custom fit, please let me know,

Cheers

Stefano

 

[x_atlas0]

Thanks guys,
A search on internet brings up dozens of proffesional, helpful and competent looking outfits specialising in custom fits, and at reasonable money across the USA. In the UK we're about thirty years adrift and I get alot of "BMW 3 series? Oh, you're better off buying one with air con fitted mate!" or alot of sighing and then "Don't think we can help. Do you really need air con?" There just not interested in doing anything that requires a little thought, work or aplication.

Thanks for you're input and I have found some leads going back on previous threads to follow up. If anyone knows of a UK outfit that may help out on a custom fit, please let me know,

Cheers

Stefano

It may be easier just to source the original AC parts, then upgrade specific components, like the compressor, blower, and cores.