Re: air conditioning 49 or 50 Packards

Posted by HH56 On 2010/9/6 16:41:38

There have been several threads the last year or so on AC for that era cars. You can do a search of the forums for air condition, AC, etc etc. Basically the answer is yes---but can get costly and complicated. There were never any factory units so finding and installing one can be ruled out.

The mounting and style is not really a problem with an aftermarket unit as some will look older style and come with universal mounts. The issue is no one makes anything but 12v units anymore. The first choice would be do you want to convert to 12v or if not, what options you would have in powering it. Some have suggested dual batteries or 6/12v independent circuits. Both of those options get complicated.

Possibly you could you find an old 50's unit from a junkyard and it be made serviceable. With phase out and limited availability, the cost of R12 today and the certified person to install is almost prohibitive for a larger system. Makes R134 and costs of converting to use it look good. Converting an old unit may be an issue in itself, but in most cases doable.

Compressors are another issue. R134 with smaller molecules needs a good crankshaft seal which may not be available on an older unit. Actually, mechanical parts for older compressors are becoming hard to find. Some places do work on them however so depending on brand, all is not without hope. Depending on your engine, driving the compressor may be another problem since Packard didn't make an extra pulley available for the 356 crank. The prewar cars with that engine and AC used a pulley off the fan/waterpump. The other engines would require some changes in vibration damper but one poster has found some options there.

Most old compressors (if it is serviceable) of that era did not have a clutch or if they did, were not designed to cycle on and off frequently and that is what units today require for temp control--so another hurdle. The Sanden compressor would be the best option but again it is 12v. Some have said it MIGHT work on 7v--but I haven't heard if anyone tried. Even if it does, still the problem with a 12v blower motor. Some 6v heater motors are still available but not really powerful enough for the AC application.