I have just purchased a 1970 396 ss, where the previous owner added headers. I am trying to re-install the air conditioning compressor, and can not seem to get the brackets to work Could someone tell me what if any adjustments might be needed? Thanks, this is my first post...

If you can't get the stock stuff to work - look into street rodder mags. There are many companies that make custom mounts - for SB and BB - some are reasonable some are $$$ --- or make it ---

The a/c bracketry mounts to the head and intake manifold. Unless there's something I'm overlooking, there shouldn't be any interference with the header.

That being said, some early model heads lack the mounting bosses for the rear lower compressor mount. And some tall valve covers can interfere with the top bracket.

I have seen two different compressor setups on the '70's. One which I believe to be either exclusively or mostly correct pivots the compressor from the bottom. The other pivots the compressor from the top. The top pivot, later version was used on '71's on up. Which do you have?

Alan,

Thanks for your reply. The brackets that I have have slide adjustments on the top at the front and back of the compressor. All of the manuals that I have show the parts configured different than the real mcCoy. Any suggestions??? Year One did not offer any help... Would there be any other part cos. to check with???? By the way, it has been about 105 degrees all summer here in Phoenix.... hence the reasoin to get the air installed....

From memory:

1. There should be a large plate that mounts to the front of the head with 3 bolts. This is the front lower pivot.
2. There should be a slender piece that mounts above the #1 exhaust port with 3 bolts to the head. This is the rear lower pivot.
3. There should be a plate that mounts to the front of the compressor with 3 bolts. This is the front adjuster.
4. There should be a small triangular bracket that bolts to the lower rear of the compressor with two bolts. This is for the compressor to mount to the rear pivot.
5. There should be a bracket that mounts to the intake manifold, goes over the valve cover and to the back of the compressor. This is the rear adjuster. It also requires a roundish aluminum spacer.

I hope this helps. If not, I'll try to get some pictures. However, it won't be quick, because I'm getting ready to go to the ACE's regional event in Tulsa this weekend.

Alan,

Do you know if there are any spacers either on the intake or exhaust manifold mounts???

Thanks,

Brent

With headers you will definitely need a spacer. The header flange is 1/4 in thick while manifolds are close to an inch. I used one for the front bolt hole on my 72. Made one out of pipe.

There is also a "T" shaped bracket that you might need. It supports the back of the compressor (from the bottom). It connects to the header bolts between 1&3 (if 70 is same as 72) I got it with my headers. Mr Gasket makes one that is available at most parts stores.

------------------
Rick Schaefer
72 El Camino
TPI 350/700r4
Aces #00140
TEAM CHEVELLE #00038
NCOA #16197



[This message has been edited by rick (edited 08-12-99).]