Re: alfa-digest V7 #777

[Pottree@domain.elided]

In a message dated 6/2/99 5:45:42 PM Pacific Daylight Time, 
owner-alfa-digest@domain.elided writes:

<< Does anyone have any idea of the possibility/desireability of retrofitting 
a 
 dual system like the 84-85 GTV-6 Tropic-Air into my 83 GTV-6?  >>

I am not positive, but I believe the "improved" AC started in the 85 model 
year.  The stock AC in my 84 is distinctly marginal, plus the design of the 
mounting bracket for the compressor is suspect: mine cracked and I replaced 
it and within a couple of years the new one is also cracking.  I am told on 
best authority this is not a problem with the later (square-end mount) 
compressor.  

Comparison: the AC in 87 Milano is like a deep freeze (and the heat is like 
an oven, hence the nickname for the car The Kitchen), while the AC in the 
GTV-6 is only effective on warm days, and then only if the cabin itself 
hasn't been heated a lot by the sun and then only after a good while of 
operation (perhaps 8 - 10 minutes).  In the Milano things are chilly in about 
3 minutes.  Both cars have solar control film on the aft glass.  I believe 
the hatch on the GTV-6 is a very effective greenhouse, the "hard surface" 
upholstery is hotter than the fabric in the Milano, and correct me if I'm 
wrong, but I think the cabin volume in the GTV-6 is actually larger than in 
the Milano, considering the shelf made for oversized artwork under the hatch.

Also of note: The AC in the GTV-6 can't possibly cope with cooling the air in 
the cabin and a stream of fresh air, too - the outside vents must all be 
closed.  In the Milano, it doesn't seem to matter if fresh air is being drawn 
in when the AC is on.  (The heat at foot level is another story: Milano = 
burning face, freezing feet in winter.)

Moral: don't swap to the stock AC from an 84 GTV-6, go for the newer type.

Charlie, El Lay
84 GTV-6
87 75 

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