Need Help Choosing Aftermarket A/C Systems for My Classic Car!

Classic Cars
21

I’ve heard great things about the Classic Auto Air systems too. Anyone here tried that brand? Looking for feedback on performance and durability.

22

I had a Classic Auto Air system in my '65 Corvette for a couple of years. Worked great but required regular maintenance to keep peak performance.

23

Thanks for the insights, Vaughn! Maintenance is key, for sure. I’m leaning towards the Vintage Air after hearing your positive experience, xlandry.

24

Just to add, I’ve read that the under-dash kits can sometimes lead to a cluttered look. How do you all feel about that?

25

That can be an issue, but I think it depends on your classic car’s interior. An A/C system can be a nice upgrade if done tastefully!

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26

I feel like I might be overthinking this. Do aftermarket A/C units really make that big of a difference in the heat?

27

Absolutely! Having A/C in a classic car transforms the driving experience. I can’t even imagine taking my car out without it in mid-summer.

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28

My buddy installed one and now can’t stop raving about it! But what about efficiency? Do these systems eat up a lot of horsepower?

29

That’s a valid concern, Justin. From my experience, they do draw some power, but often it’s worth it for the comfort. Just make sure your engine can handle the load.

30

I’ve also seen some complaints online about the installation process being tricky. Anyone have thoughts on that?

31

It can be a challenge. I recommend having a professional help if you’re unsure. Better safe than sorry!

32

I sometimes wonder if I’m putting too much emphasis on getting the perfect A/C system. Should I just enjoy the ride?

33

There’s a balance, Laura! While comfort is key, enjoying your classic car experience shouldn’t be overlooked. It’s all about what feels right for you.

34

I’m just here for the laughs! Ultimately, any A/C that keeps you cool is a winner, right? Just watch out for leaks!

35

I recently installed an aftermarket A/C unit in my classic Mustang. Costs can vary widely, but I found that budgeting around $1,200 to $1,500 for both parts and installation is realistic for many systems.

36

That’s a decent price range! I’m curious, did you run into any hidden costs during installation?

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37

I would recommend looking into budget-friendly models like Vintage Air or Classic Auto Air. They have quality products that won’t break the bank.

38

Those brands are good! I installed Vintage Air in my 70s Camaro and it works great. Just remember to factor in potential extra parts you might need.

39

I’ve heard that some OEM systems can be more reliable long-term. Have you weighed the pros and cons between aftermarket vs. OEM for your classic?

40

Great point! While OEM can be reliable, it often comes with a hefty price tag. What systems are you considering?