Engine swap A/C Compressor

[jlcustomz]

You do not want any factory ls compressors as they are the variable type. Can be made to work, but will prematurely fail.
I put I think it was the 508 type of sanden in place of factory f-body unit. Used mounts from BRP. fit more compact than factory unit & may have fit without the frame notching & reboxing I originally did. 508's were the workhorse of aftermarket ac units, other model you asked about is just a newer model. Think I had to remove 2 inner ears of 508 for lower mounting, so that is a tight tuck in.
The r-4's weren't the best of compressors, but they would save you on hoses if mounting in near enough to factory location & cheap enough to get replacements.
Plenty of aftermarket brackets these days, I think Speed Engineering also has quite a few choices now.
In a way it all partly depends on what outcome you want in the long run. I prefer the low mount for appearance and being on a separate short belt for theoretically less vibration. Also I went aftermarket ac about 5 years after ls swap to cleanup under hood & just to have all new ac & heat operating system. What's better is once again an opinion here.

 

[ostrich]

I swapped a 5.3 in my 85 SS and used an R4 compressor from an 89 Blazer. Same from Camaros etc. I figured it would be easier for replacing if needed, just go to parts store & get one. Used these brackets (http://lsbrackets.com/r4-ac-relocation-bracket-turbo/). He makes them for the short accessories as well. Used stock 3rd Gen hoses, upper & lower mated to a stock 3rd Gen condenser. Fit like it was supposed to be there.

 

[uneek1976]

I have a SD7 mounted in the factory location without notching the frame.

 

[MechMan]

I have a SD7 mounted in the factory location without notching the frame. View attachment 115232View attachment 115233

This is low mounted? What bracket did you use?

 

[uneek1976]

This is low mounted? What bracket did you use?

Yes it's low mounted in the factory location. I used Dirty Dingo brackets.

 

[MechMan]

Hmmm well that gives me another thing to think about.

 

[MechMan]

Yes it's low mounted in the factory location. I used Dirty Dingo brackets.

What motor mounts did you use? I am looking at the Holley mounts and I belive I read that it sits the motor lower.

 

[uneek1976]

What motor mounts did you use? I am looking at the Holley mounts and I belive I read that it sits the motor lower.

Just some $25-$30 Ebay mounts.

 

[Firetruck1]

Thereis nothing wrong with a quality brand name R4. I would take it over the numerous cheap Chinese Sanden copies out there!