Driving a classic car in summer is miserable without A/C. Factory air systems barely work. Vintage Air's Gen IV system is modern refrigerant, modern compressor, and enough cooling power to freeze your passengers.
These kits are designed for classic cars. Everything fits under the dash without cutting the firewall. The compressor mounts where the factory power steering pump used to go (you can keep power steering).
The Gen IV Magnum kit includes the evaporator box, compressor, condenser, all hoses, wiring harness, vents, and control panel. You supply the install labor and a case of beer.
Complete kit: [Vintage Air Gen IV SureFit System for 1967-68 Mustang (961380)](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N0YWHJQ?tag=rusttoroad-20)
Remove the glovebox. The evaporator mounts under the dash on the passenger side. Drill four holes in the firewall for the refrigerant lines (templates included in the kit). Bolt the evaporator box in place.
Firewall hole saw kit: [Step Drill Bit Set for A/C Install](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000NI7PW8?tag=rusttoroad-20)
The Sanden SD508 compressor mounts on the driver's side of the engine using a bracket that bolts to the block. The kit includes the bracket—it tucks the compressor low so it doesn't interfere with headers.
The condenser mounts in front of the radiator. You'll need to drill mounting holes in the radiator support (templates included). The condenser must have airflow—don't block it with a pusher fan.
Run the lines from the compressor, through the firewall, to the evaporator. The kit uses modern #6 and #8 fittings (not flare fittings). Use two wrenches when tightening—one to hold the fitting, one to tighten the nut.
The blower motor wires to the control panel. The compressor clutch wires to a relay (included). Power comes from the fuse box. Ground to the firewall. Takes about an hour if you read the diagram.
Wiring diagram included in kit.
You need a vacuum pump to remove air and moisture from the system. Pull vacuum for 30 minutes, then charge with R134a refrigerant. If you don't have the tools, pay a shop $150 to do this step.
Vacuum pump kit: [Robinair VacuMaster 3 CFM Vacuum Pump (15300)](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000O1UTEA?tag=rusttoroad-20)
R134a refrigerant: [Interdynamics R134a 12oz Cans (4-pack)](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000BQRYKS?tag=rusttoroad-20)
The kit includes round dash vents that fit in the factory openings. The control panel mounts under the dash. Route the vent hoses from the evaporator box to the dash vents.
Start the engine. Turn the A/C on. It should blow 40-degree air at the vents. If it's not cold, check the refrigerant charge. If it's not blowing, check the blower motor wiring.
- Vintage Air Gen IV kit: ~$2,200 - Vacuum pump kit: ~$150 - R134a refrigerant (4 cans): ~$40 - Step drill bits: ~$25 - Wiring supplies: ~$30
Total: $2,445 in parts. Worth it when you're sitting in traffic in July.
Not cold enough: Low refrigerant charge or condenser isn't getting airflow. Check the charge with a gauge set. Make sure the cooling fans are working.
Compressor won't engage: Check voltage at the compressor clutch wire. Should have 12V when the A/C is on. If no voltage, check the relay and control panel.
Blower motor doesn't work: Check the fuse. Check the blower speed switch on the control panel. Test the motor by applying 12V directly to the motor terminals.
This is the most complex install in this guide. Plan for a weekend. The payoff is a classic car you can actually drive in summer without melting. Your passengers will thank you.
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