I'm looking to add Vintage Air in my 71 Cutlass its a 350ci non-AC car.

Can anyone tell me what's the difference between a non-HD/AC vs with HD/AC water pump.


I was going to replace the water pump soon but probably won't start the AC install until later this year as I still need to locate a AC alternator bracket, 3 grove crank & water pump pulleys, fan shroud, radiator cover plate.

 

The usual difference is the size of the bearing and the snout as it has to deal with the load from the compressor. In my older car the impeller is the same size but the bearing and snout is double the size of a non AC one and supports the shaft from just under the flange the fan etc bolt onto.


Scott

 

The usual difference, even in the pre-1964 engines was the use of a larger bearing. The A/C compressor adds a significant additional load to the water pump bearing..........hence the need for a larger bearing (to make it last longer). There were also some pumps which had a couple more vanes on the impeller of the A/C pumps.

 

You may have to address radiator and fan?

Pat

 

Address radiator and fan? Because of the difference in sizes of the pump?

 

Because of the additional cooling capacity needed for A/C.

- Eric

 

Gotcha, yea I have a 3row aliuminum unit. I plan to upgrade the fan & clutch to the HD stuff.