Eight years in the making, I can finally report that the factory AC (correctly referred to as CAC in the service manual) is running! Just in time for a 3 inch snowfall overnight!
Getting it running was the last thing on my list, but like everyone else I've had some extra time on my hands lately so I dug out my notes last week and concentrated on getting this project done.
Switched to 134 and Ester oil, lubed all the Bowden cables, built new ductwork, and cleaned the "cabin air filter" . Amazingly the compressor worked great after a 20 plus year layoff. WE GOT COLD AIR!

I'm not sure that I'm ever actually going to use the AC much. since I like the "windows are rolled down" feeling of driving the '56, but I do want my car to have all the stuff working that should be working.

 

Congratulations. If you get any hot humid days like I do in the summer, you'll appreciate it. You should probably turn it on briefly even in the winter occasionally. The shaft seal in the A5 will likely seal better if it stays moist with refrigerant oil. Also occasionally check the sight glass. You may have to "top up" the charge sometime.

 

Ignachuck,Good work I'm just jealous, anybody who has crossed the Nevada desert in summer would know windows down, top down or up it doesn't matter if the wind doesn't beat you up the heat will melt you down, jealous I say.... Tedd

 

And someone asked me once , " Why would anyone with a convertible want air conditioning ? "

 

Two reasons I put AC in my 54 convertible: (1.) I live in Texas and (2.) my wife wanted it.

Congrats Frank. Good job.

 

There are vintage ways around this AC issue but they are still not practical for a convertible.... Tedd

 

Frank - Great to hear you got it working!
Rick

 

I absolutely love that song from Amos Lee!! As a matter of fact, it came on the radio while I was tearing down the brake master cylinder on my 1955 98’ the other day!!

 

It's a great summer cruising song! AND you can sing along to it