Mounting a modern AC compressor, smog pump pulley/under the tin Options

[computers4kids]

I will be adding AC to my project car. I am looking to adding a modern AC compressor, like the Sanden 508 or equivalent to a DPD evaporator.

After doing quite a bit a reading, I've come across pictures of some 914 conversions (upgrade) that use an adapter (purchased/homemade) that allows for the Sanden compressor to bolt directly to the York (stock) mounting plates utililyzing the existing pulleys.

Like the York, you have to hack-up the tin on one side...even saw some that modified the passenger engine shelf. I'm looking for an alternative installation.

Alternative ideas that I've been toying with...

1) I've touched base with a guy in Florida that is developing a compressor that mounts below the tin. Compressor and bracket are ready, condensor coming soon.

2) Anyone ever thought about mounting a modern compressor above the fan housing using the pulleys that come with the smog pump setup (no smog pump of course). Seems if you did this you could avoid cutting the tin, have easy access to the compressor, and when you drop the engine...the compressor could un-bolt and remain in the engine compartment without disconnecting the lines.

3) I've also toyed with mounting a condensor in the wheel well like the 911 aftermarket ones.

Anyway, looking for ideas or wisdom. Sorry, but talking me out of AC is not an option...I want the wife to be able to ride in this project...just too dammmmm hot in Visalia, CA.

[jcd914]

There was a company that sold a rotary compressor kit for the VW bus with TIV engines. Mounting was the same place as the York's so it would probably work on a 914. Would probably require cutting the sheet metal. I always thought a rotary compressor would be a big improvement over the york. York vibrates too much. I was thinking of it for my VW bus. Bus has been gone a while now and I'm not sure I could do AC in a 914 but living Sacramento I understand the desire.

The air pump drive would not be strong enough for the AC, it has a rubber coupling that tears. You could probably fabricate something but I think I would lean toward the York mounting location. Using the AC drive pulley behind the fan would be lest prone to vibration problems and has the strength to drive the compressor. Maybe there are smaller rotary compressors that would fit better.

The fender mounted condenser in the 911 was not enough on its own and required an additional condenser on the engine lid.

Good Luck
Jim