Junk yard a/c parts for '76 installation?

[Dakotabound]

Went surfing through our site and didn't find an article on how to install an A/C unit in an early Bronco using junkyard parts. Found info on kits, etc. but what about getting later model gear and retrofitting such into one's vehicle? What parts, from what models, and of course at what costs/savings? Skill levels required, outside vendors needed and other such facts would help.

The game is to see if one can avoid the $1300 retail costs for junkyard parts and still have a fine ice cold system with fully operational heating/defrosting system, especially after plugging all the interior air leaks so the cold air stays inside.

Otherwise, I'll just put back the soft top, roll the windows down and add more beer into the cooler for the summer.

 

[broncodriver99]

I'm not aware of any junkyard units that will work. Most junkyard stuff is either through the firewall or cowl type stuff which isn't really an option on a Bronco.

 

[NYLES]

You could rig a nice spray pump into a Yeti! thats my thoughts on A/C in a Bronco....If you ever get used to runnin w/o a top at all your bikini will dry rot.

Did you say roll windows down? Windows require doors........not cool!

 

[Broncobowsher]

I have been looking for 20+ years for junkyard A/C parts. The underhood stuff isn't too bad, lots of donor engine room options. It is the inside part that doesn't package well. Junkyard aftermarket underdash units are probably the best option so long as you are not running an NP435 or have some other stopper under the dash.

 

[brianz426]

Went surfing through our site and didn't find an article on how to install an A/C unit in an early Bronco using junkyard parts. Found info on kits, etc. but what about getting later model gear and retrofitting such into one's vehicle? What parts, from what models, and of course at what costs/savings? Skill levels required, outside vendors needed and other such facts would help.

The game is to see if one can avoid the $1300 retail costs for junkyard parts and still have a fine ice cold system with fully operational heating/defrosting system, especially after plugging all the interior air leaks so the cold air stays inside.

Otherwise, I'll just put back the soft top, roll the windows down and add more beer into the cooler for the summer.

A couple months ago I removed an aftermarket unit from my '77 Bronco that was installed in the early '80's. It's complete and I removed it with the thought that I or someone else may want to reuse it in the future. Let me know if you are interested. I'd let it go cheap.

 

[Spartan]

Swamp coolers are an option

 

[kaw550]

A couple months back someone posted a link to a company that is selling the under dash component for $79. I will see if I can find it.

 

[Dakotabound]

So far so good. Looks like I've got to go "natural" unless brianz426 and I make a deal. Either way, I'm going for the larger cooler with more beer and just might consider that "door removal" idea, although being a senior who today drives like one...

Thank you all for responding and offering your insights, opinions. This is what makes the site so great when in need!

 

[Crush]

look for a first gen wrangler. has a very slim design and could very well be adaptable to our broncos. I have not actually done any measuring but I have seen many of these units (dad used to be a jeep dealer) and often wondered if they could be used in broncos