86 ramcharger AC questions

I only ever removed AC and scrapped it on hotrods. This time I'm doing up a 1986 ramcharger as a daily driver/toddler hauler/grocery getter and I am re-doing the factory air. I have questions!

First let me say this system is EMPTY. This thing hasn't worked for a long time and I'm assuming all the componants are trashed.

I ordered all new parts from rockauto and the plan is to replace everything myself then have my buddy pull a vacuum/ test it and fill up. So far all I did was pull the condensor to access a trans cooler leak that needed attention. The connection was just made with a machined block that bolted to a flat with a gasket inbetween.

Do any of the other connections need special tools? I was told modern AC lines use special connections.

What about the expansion valve? I haven't figured out where that goes yet! I think maybe the old one isnt so shiny...

Once my evaporator comes in I'm going to pull the heater core/box and go to town. I'm doing the heater core while I'm in there too. Are there any tricks or things that could help me out?

Thanks!

I had a 85 RC,and I don't recall any "special connections"..pretty straight forward stuff. I can't remember but I thought the expansion valve is next to the evap core inside the engine compartment,again should be easy to change out. The evap itself..I never pulled one,so no help there. Replace the drier too and update to R-134 and you should be good to go.

It seems straight foreward enough- thanks!

Valve should be on firewall and held in place with one bolt.Its a block IIRC been a while since I did mine.If you get a R12 comprssor you will need an adapter kit to R134 unless you have R12.Cant remember what year they switched 12 and 134 hook ups are different sizes.Rocky

Those older C171 AC setups work best on R12, especially trying to cool a Ramcharger's interior. Same basic setup as my 87 Diplomat and when I converted it to R134 it did an OK job, but nothing like the R12 did.

No special tools needed, this is not a "modern" AC setup with special tools. When you pull the AC box odds are all the foam rubbed seals inside will be deteriorated, may as well make new ones, nothing special about them a sheet of foam cut to shape will work fine. Be a good time to really clean out that box too.

I converted my 92 D250 to 134A several years ago. It blows pretty cold.

I'd suggest the following reading:

Renewing the A/C.

Put the blower motor on relays.

Replace fusible links with fuses.


There is a TON of awesome info on the 1981 - 1993 trucks at The Sticky.