I have a 68 cutlass with factory air. I was wondering if I can replace the compresser with a new one , or do a have to find a period correct one? Any info would be greatly appreciated.

 

Any A-6 compressor should bolt up, though I believe (someone help me here) that there may have been two different displacements made over the years.

Auto parts stores and junk yards have plenty of these.

What's wrong with yours?

- Eric

 

Contact Vintageautoair or Classicautoair. They will have tech support and any parts you need for this system.

 

Dave (oregontopcat) has a newer compressor on his 1970 442 convertible project. I couldn't find any pictures or details on his major build thread. But if you want to contact him you might ask him what he used here:

https://classicoldsmobile.com/forums...frame-off.html

I know Dave said it was much lighter, I don't remember any other details on why he chose it rather than rebuilding his factory one.

John

 

You can buy these Sanden S6 compressors that bolt up to the A6 brackets but weigh less.

S6 compressor

Classic Auto Air S6 compressor

 

They bolt to the brackets but still need some mods. Hoses are in a different position and the LONG bolt to hold the hoses on is not included and is metric. They are filled with oil so hoses need to be installed before mounting and the compressor is clutch-down. This is what one member here experienced, so not sure if they are all like that. Just some advice if you go this route.

The stock type A6 compressor has different terminal positions for the clutch, and also different options for protection (such as high pressure switch or superheat switch). Those should match your current vehicle to prevent extra mods or rewiring.

 

Not all A6 compressors have the same bolt mounting locations. A friend was swapping a compressor from a 1975 with one from a 1976, and there bolt hole locations were just slightly off. He had to use the brackets from the 1976 on his 1975 engine to make it work. Everything looked the same, except for the hole locations. This was on a Cadillac, so I can't say that it applies to the Oldsmobile.

 

The A6 also came with more than one pulley size, both diameter, and width. The later units came with metric mounting holes, and a wider pulley.