Classic Auto Air vs. Vintage Air!?!?
Since I have about decided to replace my factory AC system instead of repair I am wondering what experience others of you have with these potential products/systems.
After some initial research via the internet on comparisons of Old Air Products, Vintage Air, RestoMod Air, & Classic Auto Air I am leaning towards Classic Auto Air.
Thank you for sharing any experience you have gained!
Oh yeah, I have a 1978 F250 Ranger XLT style side with it's 460, C6, rear wheel drive, & factory air/heater.

 

If your factory A/C is still all there just fix what needs fixed and get this kit. I've done two now and it's the only way to go.

76-79 F-Series Truck/78-79 Bronco AC Compressor Kit V8 STAGE-1 | Original Air Group

 

I would tend to agree. 2 grand for either system isn’t worth it. Is there some reason we’re not aware of that sent you down the rabbit hole of replacing the whole system?

 

Since I don't know how this functioned prior to my rebuild I am not sure the dash controls will function effectively & dependably. Plus I changed to a serpentine belt system with my EFI conversion which reroutes my hoses, and I am installing an American AutoWire kit as I had several wires which had previously melted insulation & bare wire, so not sure how safe overall the wiring was. Don't know if the 'resistor' is able to function accurately either. The heater core needs to be replaced & the A/C core {I know that is not what it is called} is beat up significantly. And I want to do this in what my machine shop guys lingo was as a 'one & done' so that I don't have to repair something further on it in a month/year/or five if I can prevent that. So.....
I get where you are coming from, but I am going the replacement route for my system. Thank you for the inquiry/feedback!

 

It's really just personal preference. Each one kinda has their own way of routing, and layout. I have some experience with Classic Air on a 72 Chevelle SS and on a Pontiac GTO. Preferred their layout for those. But when choosing a system for my dentside I really like the way Vintage Air designed their "Sure Fit" kit for 73-79 dentsides. All the kits are similar in their performance I think.
I also rewired the whole truck with the American Autowire kit at the same time. It just takes a good bit of patience and planning. If you are a half decent wrench and enjoy working on these old rigs, it's not too bad. DO NOT rush it and DO invest in the right tools! In the end I am very satisfied with the end result.
check out Vintage Air's YouTube videos. Very comprehensive.
I reckon any of the major suppliers have their pros and cons.

 

Understood. Aside from the EFI, I will end up with nearly the same setup that you have (Serpentine, AAW harness). Let me know what system you choose and do an install thread please! It would be of great assistance to myself and others in the future.

 

Thank you, Buck 250!!! And yes, Viper Pilot, I will try to do an install thread if this old guy can figure out how to do the techy thing!

 

Buck 250, is that a Dakota Digital Dash display I see?

 

Off topic but what did you have any issues with the 72 chevelle ac conversion? I’m about to start restoring a 72 convertible and AC is on the list of the wife’s requests.

 

I also went with vintage air sure fit kit, digital dakota gauges, 3g alternator and american autowire. All went in with no issues and support from american autowire is awesome.

 

I also find the support from American AutoWire to be great!!! They are very patient & helpful!

 

We used Vintage Air and had to 'build' a kit for our '85 because they did not have a kit for our application. We used the donor car condenser and compressor and it all works great. I am about to finish the installation of a Restomod kit for my '77 and hope it is as flawless.