I did a custom install of an after market AC unit made for classic
cars in my Adventurewagen. I put it in the forward compartment over
the passenger and drivers head. This was also done by adventurewagen
when they were built but mine came without it. Anyway you could use
the same type of unit on your van.  I also used an after market
condenser so I could keep everything 134 along with the subie power
plant.  It was a lot of work running all new hoses but it's been
really nice this year.

I just did a trip to WV over the holiday weekend and had the AC on
driving up the hills and driving 65 and under, which is hard on the
flats with everyone passing you. That said I got 19 MPG and I was
very happy. I looked at the Behr units but didn't want to deal with
20 year old parts that I would be hooking up to a 2002 compressor.

I bought the evaporator/blower and switches from Ed Gillmore who also
sell units for older vw's. You could also put a second condenser
under the van. I've seen this done on 2WD subi vans with good results.

I posted some pictures here from when I first finished:

<http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=278604&highlight=>

I've also got some pictures of just the evaporator from when I was
test fitting, it's a small unit and would fit under the seat. email
for pics.

Good luck, it's one of those projects worth the time in my humid area
of the country.

JFF

On Jul 9, 2008, at 3:14 PM, neil N wrote:

Hi all.

Anyone running an AC unit under the rear bench seat?

If so, how effective is it?

I know it's not the best location, but am curious.

Cheers,

Neil.

--
Neil Nicholson '81 JettaWesty "Jaco
http://groups.google.com/group/vanagons-with-vw-inline-4-cylinder-gas-
engines
http://web.mac.com/tubaneil
http://tubaneil.googlepages.com/