Remember those scorching summer days, cruising in your classic beauty, only to be met with a blast of hot air? It’s a familiar feeling for classic car owners. But what if you could enjoy the vintage charm of your ride while staying cool and comfortable? It’s a common problem, and finding the right air conditioning system can feel like navigating a maze.
Choosing aftermarket air conditioning for your classic car is tricky. You have to think about your car’s age, style, and your budget. There are many systems to choose from, and it can be overwhelming. You might worry about ruining your car’s original look or causing mechanical problems. Don’t worry! We will help you sort through this.
This blog post will break down the process. You’ll learn how to pick the best aftermarket AC system for your classic car. We’ll cover important factors to consider. You’ll discover how to choose the right components and get your car ready. Get ready to enjoy a cool and comfy ride in your classic car, no matter how hot it is outside. Let’s dive in!
Our Top 5 Aftermarket Air Conditioning For Classic Cars Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Aftermarket Air Conditioning For Classic Cars Detailed Reviews
1. Unfair Advantage 55 1955 Chevy Factory Dash AC Air Conditioning Vents and Housings
Rating: 9.0/10
Are you restoring a classic 1955 Chevy and want to add some cool air? The Unfair Advantage 55 1955 Chevy Factory Dash AC Air Conditioning Vents and Housings are what you need. These vents let you add aftermarket AC to your classic car. They look great and work well. They fit all 1955 Chevrolet models. You get a left and right side vent, ready to go. The vents are high-quality and come with a template to help with installation.
What We Like:
- They fit all 1955 Chevy models!
- The set includes both left and right side vents.
- They are designed to work with aftermarket air conditioning kits.
- The vents are very high quality.
- A template is included to make installation easier.
What Could Be Improved:
- Installation might require some mechanical skill.
This Unfair Advantage kit gives your classic Chevy a factory-fresh look. The vents are a great way to stay cool in your classic car.
2. 12V Car Truck Under Dash A/C Air Conditioning Evaporator Assembly Heat + Cool Unit 3 Speed 6 Port 12V
Rating: 9.0/10
This 12V Car Truck Under Dash A/C Evaporator is a handy unit. It adds air conditioning to your car or truck. The unit has both cooling and heating functions. It’s designed to fit under your dash. This allows you to add A/C even if your vehicle did not have it originally. The package includes the evaporator and heater assembly. It is ready to install right away. It features a 3-speed fan and six air ports for good airflow. The system runs on 12V power and uses an electrical thermostat.
What We Like:
- It’s a universal unit, so it can fit many vehicles.
- It has both cooling and heating capabilities.
- The 3-speed fan lets you control the airflow.
- It is a complete kit and ready to install.
- It provides a good BTU cooling and heating.
What Could Be Improved:
- Installation might require some technical skill.
- You may need to purchase additional parts for a full A/C system.
Overall, this 12V A/C Evaporator is a good option for adding air conditioning to your vehicle. It provides both heating and cooling, and the universal design makes it versatile. It is a good choice for those who want to add A/C to their car or truck.
3. Universal 12V Under Dash Air Conditioning AC Kit 12 volt Air Conditioner for Car Van Taxi Automatic RVs Truck Electric AC energy Saving Fast Cooling
Rating: 9.0/10
Beat the heat with the Universal 12V Under Dash Air Conditioning AC Kit! This 12-volt air conditioner is made for cars, vans, taxis, RVs, and trucks. It provides fast cooling with its electric scroll compressor. The kit is an upgrade, offering 10000 BTU cooling power. It is designed for easy installation and energy saving. It’s perfect for many vehicles and offers multiple safety features. Enjoy a cool ride with this convenient AC kit!
What We Like:
- Fast Cooling: This AC unit cools down quickly with its strong electric scroll compressor.
- Easy Installation: The kit combines key parts for simple setup and connection.
- Energy Efficient: It runs on battery power. This saves fuel and extends use even when the car is off.
- Wide Application: This AC kit fits most vehicles, including RVs, vans, taxis, and trucks.
- Safety Features: It has several safety protections, such as leak and short circuit protection.
What Could Be Improved:
- Cooling Performance in Extreme Heat: Cooling may be less effective when the outside temperature is above 60 degrees.
This Universal 12V Under Dash Air Conditioning AC Kit is a good choice if you need AC in your vehicle. It is easy to install and offers a fast and efficient cooling experience.
4. Universal Air Conditioner UN 0890C HVAC Control Module Panel
Rating: 8.6/10
The Universal Air Conditioner UN 0890C HVAC Control Module Panel, Black is a brand new part. It is made to replace your old air conditioner control panel. This UAC branded part is a quality replacement. It is built to work well and keep your car cool. It meets or goes beyond what the original parts do. It also comes with AC parts to help you get the job done.
What We Like:
- It is a direct replacement, so it fits right in.
- The quality meets or exceeds original parts.
- It helps your air conditioner cool well.
- It comes with AC parts.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price may be higher than some other options.
- You might need a mechanic to install it.
Overall, the Universal Air Conditioner UN 0890C HVAC Control Module Panel, Black is a good choice if you need a new air conditioner control panel. It is made well and should help your AC work like new.
5. CNCEST Universal Air Conditioner UN
Rating: 9.0/10
The CNCEST Universal Air Conditioner is made to add air conditioning to cars, RVs, and other vehicles. It is a universal under-dash evaporator. It is designed for vehicles that did not have AC when they were made. This evaporator is great for classic cars and motorhomes. It promises to keep you cool on the road.
What We Like:
- It is made with good quality parts.
- It has a 32 pass 4 way coil for the best airflow.
- It comes with mounting brackets and a drain hose.
- It has three fan speeds.
What Could Be Improved:
- You need other AC parts, like a compressor, to make it work.
- Installation requires some basic knowledge of car wiring.
This CNCEST universal AC evaporator is a good way to add AC to your vehicle. It is a solid choice if you want to stay cool while driving.
Cool Down Your Classic: A Buying Guide for Aftermarket AC
So, you love your classic car. But does it love you back when the sun is blazing? No AC? No problem! Aftermarket air conditioning is here to help. This guide will help you pick the best system for your ride.
Key Features to Look For
Choosing the right AC kit is important. Here are some things to consider:
- Capacity: How strong does the AC need to be? Bigger cars need more power. Consider your car’s size and how hot it gets where you live.
- Compressor Type: There are different types of compressors. Some are more efficient than others. Read reviews to see which ones are best for your car.
- Evaporator Size and Design: This is the part that cools the air inside your car. Make sure it fits your car. Some have under-dash units, and others go in the engine bay.
- Condenser Size and Design: The condenser releases heat. It needs to fit in front of your radiator. Make sure it has good airflow.
- Controls: How easy is the system to use? Do you want simple knobs or digital controls?
Important Materials
What are the AC kits made of? Good materials mean a longer-lasting system.
- Aluminum: Aluminum is used for the condenser and evaporator. It’s light and good at transferring heat. It’s also resistant to rust.
- Steel: Steel is used for brackets and some parts. It’s strong.
- Refrigerant Lines: These lines carry the refrigerant. They should be made of strong, flexible material.
- Wiring Harness: The wiring needs to be well-made. This ensures the system works safely and correctly.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all AC kits are created equal. Here’s what makes a good kit:
- Brand Reputation: Does the company have a good name? Read reviews.
- Fit and Finish: Does everything fit your car well? Poor fit can cause problems.
- Included Parts: Does the kit come with everything you need? Missing parts mean extra work.
- Warranty: A good warranty protects you if something goes wrong.
- Installation Instructions: Clear instructions make the install easier.
- Customer Support: Can you get help if you need it?
User Experience and Use Cases
Who buys aftermarket AC? Why?
- Classic Car Owners: These are the main buyers. They want to enjoy their classic cars in comfort.
- Hot Weather Areas: People in hot climates need AC the most.
- Show Car Owners: AC can make your car more enjoyable to show off.
- Restoration Projects: Adding AC can increase a car’s value.
Installation can be tricky. It’s best to have a mechanic install the AC. If you’re handy, you can install it yourself. Make sure you have the right tools and follow the instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some common questions about aftermarket AC:
Q: How much does aftermarket AC cost?
A: Prices vary. Expect to pay from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand, depending on the kit and car.
Q: Can I install the AC myself?
A: Yes, but it can be tricky. You need to be good with tools. Professional installation is often best.
Q: Will AC hurt my car’s performance?
A: Yes, it might slightly reduce power. But most people won’t notice much difference.
Q: What kind of refrigerant does the AC use?
A: Many kits use R-134a. It is a common refrigerant. Check the specific kit you’re buying.
Q: How often does the AC need maintenance?
A: You should check the system yearly. Have a mechanic check for leaks and other problems.
Q: Does AC affect my car’s gas mileage?
A: Yes, it can slightly lower gas mileage. The amount depends on the system and how often you use it.
Q: How long does an aftermarket AC system last?
A: If you maintain it well, it can last for many years.
Q: Where can I buy an aftermarket AC kit?
A: You can buy them online or at auto parts stores.
Q: How do I choose the right size AC for my car?
A: Consider your car’s size and the climate. Read reviews. Ask a mechanic for advice.
Q: What if I don’t know how to install the AC system?
A: Have a mechanic do it. This ensures it is installed correctly and safely.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.