What’s a Good AC Temp?

[HonaloochieBoogie]

In the 13 years I’ve owned my 72 CSi, the AC has never been sufficient in even warm weather. So when dropped it off for a list of refresh/improvements, the AC was on that list. I just received an email with photo of a 43.7 degree read out of the vents. That sounds like a huge improvement. I couldn’t find a thread about this. Is that a good result?

 

[sfdon]

You could probably benefit from a good quality auxiliary fan...

 

[m5bb]

In the 13 years I’ve owned my 72 CSi, the AC has never been sufficient in even warm weather. So when dropped it off for a list of refresh/improvements, the AC was on that list. I just received an email with photo of a 43.7 degree read out of the vents. That sounds like a huge improvement. I couldn’t find a thread about this. Is that a good result?

Yes, that is a good temp.
With a better fan in front of the condenser you might be able to drop that as Don suggests.

 

[HonaloochieBoogie]

Thanks for the input!

 

[Gary Knox]

In most European cars up through the '80's, if the refrigerant is R-12, a very good system should produce about 40 degree F temps at the exit into the cabin (using a probe thermometer that extends a couple inches into the cold air passageway). Much lower than about 37 can create ice buildup in the evaporator, and probably means the anti-freeze switch is not functioning properly. If the system has been converted to 134A refrigerant, the temps are probably going to be a few degrees higher - it just isn't quite as efficient at cooling with the older systems.

 

[Drew Gregg]

You live and drive your CS in Florida. Please see my post in the A/C upgrade topic.

 

[dang]

I always thought it was a certain number of degrees below the ambient outside temperature? In other words, the hotter it is outside the less efficient the system is, or higher the output temp "could" be. Someone edumacate me.

 

[HonaloochieBoogie]

I always thought it was a certain number of degrees below the ambient outside temperature? In other words, the hotter it is outside the less efficient the system is, or higher the output temp "could" be. Someone edumacate me.

Great point. My reading of 43.7 was taken in Central Florida, so I’m encouraged. At the same time, I’m only expecting to get incremental benefits.

 

[TodB]

When I measured earlier this year, I was at 43. It’s best to get in a garaged car, get the AC on and running and it should keep up (barely) even on hot FL days. I went out mid day yesterday (I’m in Saint Augustine) and it kept up fine for the 70 mile drive.

FYI, Bypassing the heater valve helps a ton.

 

[Mike Goble]

I turn mine on when it gets above 85 degrees or so...