I'm new to the forum and I've been reading tons of threads over the last few weeks, starting to gather info for a build plan. I live in Austin, TX where Summertime temps can get over 100°F and was considering putting in A/C for driving in the Summer months. It doesn't seem like this is a very popular thing to install on the Roadsters, although it sounds like plenty have done it. I did search this forum and a few others, but haven't found a ton of threads specific to A/C questions. At the end of the day, I'm considering either a 302 small block setup, or a 351W with ideally power steering and A/C - not sure if I'm going EFI or carb yet. This will be a strictly street machine (325-350HP hopefully). So, here are some items I'd like some feedback on if possible:
- Can you fit both power steering pump & A/C compressor in the Roadster engine bay for both the 302 or 351W setup? What about if I add power brakes to the mix (haven't researched that yet...not sure if that will affect space in the engine compartment yet).
- For those that have A/C, is it worth the added expense? Does it actually help at all?
- Do you get a performance dip with A/C in terms of losing HP?
- Where do you run the conduits and place the vents in the cockpit? Pictures of routing & vent locations would be great. I have seen quite a few people run ambient vents up to the air inlets on the front of the car and run that to the foot box. But what about for dedicated A/C?
- What is a good pulley routing setup and compressor location in the Roadster engine bay? Seems like most setups on small blocks has the compressor at the top on the driver's side. Is this the best place for it considering I plan on having power steering as well? I did see another post in this forum about a Roush setup that has it mounted low, but sounds like it may require some custom brackets - I'm hoping for an off-the-shelf option. Thread: https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/show...r+conditioning
- Same question for a 351W option - would this change the recommended pulley setup and compressor location? I know the deck height is about 1" taller on the 351w compared to the 302, so wasn't sure if that affects placement of the compressor or if it would fit under the hood in the upper driver's side location.
- What would be a good compressor option? That same thread in #3 suggests Sanden S7 compressor is a common choice - are there any other common options?
Any guidance/advice would be greatly appreciated to help me put together my "dream" build.
Thanks,
-Darryl