I came accross an 87 soft-top w/ A/C in a pick-n-pull yard this WE while looking for seats.  What do I need to take off this thing to use it for an on board air system besides the compressor, mtg. brackets and drive pulley?  I can have whatever I want A/C related for $20 I'm assuming somebody out there has converted one for this purpose. Any info, tips/tricks or links to parts suppliers would be helpful.

Thanks, Ron.

i was thinking about doing the same thing to my kick but then i thought that the freeon(sp) lubricats(sp) the pump but the pump would be pumping air and could freze up.  was that the right way to think about it?

stu

I have done it and it's proven it's worth everytime. From the doner truck I used the pulley, compressor, brackets, compressor wiring harness, vacuum idle up switch, throttle vacuum diaphram, A/C hoses. Check out my site for a description on the install. http:// http://www.quickvwbug.4wdriver.com/custom.html

If you have any ?'s or need pics let me know.

Pete.

A lot of OEM air conditioning compressors get there lubricant from the freon, sort of like a 2-cycle engine getting lubed from the gas/oil mix.
To survive, the compressor receives a few drops of oil (experience will tell you more or less), then there is an oil separator on the output side to recollect it.
Beware, ac compressors will get generally hot as well as the air coming out (pv=nrt engineering term- I think), so the output hose will need to handle this heat.

As for what you'll need from the donor: compressor, brackets, pulley, belt, wiring if it's separate, dash button, fan relay, fan, evaporator, pressure lines to/from compressor is what I come up with. Compressor, brackets, pulley common sense. Belt for replacement (its length). Wiring as it's easier to place into use. Dash button to keep original looking. Fan relay to connect the compressor power to along with pressure switch to be added also. Fan to resell to someone in need of an electrical fan (or you could use for yourself as a possibility). Same for evaporator or this could be used as a great auto tranny cooler. The pressure lines as this will help 'adapt' the compressor as an air compressor. You'll probably need a small tank and a pressure gage.

Well I'm glad I asked! You guys mentioned stuff I would have left behind.  The Vac Idle Up switch and stuff like that, however I've got a 91 so a direct install isn't likely. I'll grab everything I can, easier to not use than to need and not have.  Thanks for the help guys  
Pete, you going to Gon Zookin this year? ( If it's still on) I'd like to check out your rig.

I have full intentions of going. I'm still waiting for my 35 procomp x-terrains though   . This year I'm bringing my rig and my  bro along in a white tintop with mild alterations. I'll hopefully see you there.
Pete.