<VV> CORVAIR A/C CONDENSER POSITION

[Frank DuVal]

What is the typical temperature on a summer hot day when you would be 
driving your car? Houston TX is probably in the mid 90 degree F range.  
(35 C). If you plan on driving your Corvair daily with the AC on and 
temperatures this high, then maybe you could see some difference in 
engine longevity due to higher operating temperature. But, if you are 
just driving to shows or cruise ins, or the outside temperature is 
lower, why worry about something that will take years to happen, if ever?

There are many 66/67 condenser styles running on the road in this 
country. I just bought one (66) and hope to have it on the road shortly.

The only difference I can see in the two styles is the engine combustion 
air on the 66/67 style gets heated by the condenser. This will add to 
the operating temperature of the engine. The cooling air flowing over 
the engine fins is warmed the same by both styles of condensers. So, use 
the 66/67 style and duct outside air to the inlet of the air cleaner. 
The best of both worlds.

Frank DuVal

Arlette Carl wrote:

>Hi everyone,
> 
>Bob Hall comments, and perhaps he is right that regardless of the position of the A/C Condenser in a Corvair (1965 & older models compared to the 1966-67 position) that engine cooling will be effected to much the same degree.
> 
>I would without question agree that the 1966-67 Corvair A/C Condenser installation is by the best looking and leaves the engine free to work on. I agree so much that convering my 65 Monzas AC Condenser to a 1966 style was very appealing until I obtained a copy of the following book.
> 
>"THE ULIMATE GUIDE TO VAIRS WITH AIR" by Greg Riley.
> 
>The following are direct quotes from the above book:
> 
>1. "There is just too much heat generated by the stock condenser. The factory cars all seem to be on the verge of overheating."
> 
>2. "However, the 1965 system did keep the car very comfortable even during the severely hot weather of Houston summers."
> 
>Greg Riley's book comments on the 1966-67 Condenser installation as follows:
> 
>3. "The 66-7 design makes for a neat installation, but is not the best choice for engine longevity".
>
>  
>