Hey everybody. I am about to install an AC kit from ACkits.com and was hoping some of you that have experience with these kits or any useful tips could help me out. I have the instructions provided by the company and my trusty Haynes repair manual but the parts I'll have to take off are ones that haven't left my truck before. Like I said, any suggestions? Thanks.
John Addington II

 

type of vehicle, engine, year, etc.?

 

Sorry about that, I have a 97 Tacoma, 2.7L 4cyl extended cab.

 

Ok, what parts do you have to take off.
I installed one of their kits on my 95 4runner and don't recall taking anything off other than removing the Transition Air Duct under the dash for the new Evaporator Housing assembly.

 

So far as permanent removal, I have to take off the power steering pump pulley spacer and the air duct that you mentioned. The rest of the removal is what I was concerned about - getting the stock parts back together. From what I see under the hood, there isn't much room for the compressor or the condensor. Does the condensor go in front of the radiator? This is the only thing I can figure.

 

No there isn't much room. I had to undo the steering pump and move it out of the way.

The condensor goes in front of the rad. If you know of a similar truck with A/C it would be good to take a look at it. There will be a lot of trial fitting of parts till you get the hoses routed right.

When you install the evaporator box make sure you seal the joints with duct tape or something.

The instructions might not mention it but the compressor is full of oil. Your A/C guy will want to know that.

 

Did you charge the system yourself?

 

you will want to take it to an a/c place to get it evacuated of all air and moisture, after that you can charge it yourself, when they evacuate it they will check it for leaks by seeing if it holds a vacuum

 

No, I had an A/C shop evacuate it and test that it could hold vacuum for an hour and they charged it as well.

 

How much are we talking about, the vaccuum test and charging at a shop?

 

I paid 200.00 CDN plus taxes.
If it fails the vacuum test you'll have to find the problem and have it tested again.
I forgot to mention that you should use Nylog lubricant on the hose o-rings, the instructions don't mention it.
I didn't and haven't had any leaks yet.

 

Alright, I don't have what it takes to do this and the San Antonio heat is already starting to rise. I need to get this kit sold - everything is in the boxes, nothing has even touched the truck yet. Any takers?