Engine swap A/C Compressor

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jlcustomz

G-Body Guru
Nov 22, 2011
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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.
 
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ostrich

Master Mechanic
Aug 27, 2012
310
313
63
Ontario, Canada
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.
 

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Firetruck1

Greasemonkey
Nov 1, 2017
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Thereis nothing wrong with a quality brand name R4. I would take it over the numerous cheap Chinese Sanden copies out there!
 
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