David,

Sounds practical.  This is a common addition on hard core 4WDs.  Even a lot
of aftermarket system distributors IIRC. Have to have air for tires and air
lockers.  However, R-12 and HCFC-134a systems use miscible oils that combine
with the gas and get entrained throughout the whole system to lube the
compressor.  So, just add a lubricator to the intake and a trap on the
outlet.  Hook up a pressure switch to the electric clutch.  Better way to go
is with a York compressor (has a sump, but heavy cast construction) and a
scavenging oil line from the trap back to the sump.  I'd sell the VW AC comp
for $$$ and get a low $$$ 'merican compressor from a junk yard.  Only
comment on the tank is I've seen them used for all types of stuff.  I would
want it purged with inert gas (N2) first.  Don't know about legality.  There
should be plenty of 4WD people/groups in Quesnel to help with this type of
project.  I would imagine you could get all the parts you need from Princess
Auto.  BTW, If you're in Canada and you don't know about Princess Auto,
you're doing yourself a great disservice...

Mike

----- Original Message -----
From: "David Marshall" <vanagon@VOLKSWAGEN.ORG>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Sunday, February 23, 2003 10:46 PM
Subject: AC compressor Gurus needed!!!

> I am about to install an AC compressor into my Double Cab - funny thing is
> there is no AC - it sort of comes with the motor!  I am thinking as long
as
> the electric clutch isn't engaged and I plug the compressor line openings
> things should be OK.  Then I get thinking to myself - I wonder how good
> these are at compressing air???  The plan is to put an expired propane
tank
> in the 'treasure chest' that is under the bed of the Double Cab.  With
this,
> I would have the compressor fill it with 125PSI of air so I can do things
> like air down my tires and fill them back up again with out a hand pump or
> be able to use air tools to remove street tires for off-road tires.   Is
it
> good to compress air with an AC compressor or am I about the screw up the
> compressor by doing this?
>
> Thanks in advance!
>
>
> David Marshall
>
> Fast Forward Automotive Inc.
> 4356 Quesnel-Hixon Road
> Quesnel BC Canada  V2J 6Z3
>
> http://www.fastforward.ca    mailto:sales@fastforward.ca
> Phone: (250) 992 7775        FAX: (250) 992 1160
>
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