Good climate control systems not only provide comfort but also help to combat driver fatigue. Unfortunately the Vanagon AC is not integrated. No heat or outside air blending, and it is noisy which also takes away from a pleasant experience. Added to the engine lack of power using it often adds additional stress that can be further compounded if cooling system has trouble dealing with the added load. With all that said, I like my AC in summer. If I use a van to go to work and I need to be dressed up it is a must. I tend to get sleepy behind the wheel easily and open windows, lots of noise etc. over time can put me right out. This is why most modern cars have systems that heat and cool, often at the same time, (bi-level). Heat at your feet and cooler air in your face will keep you awake and refreshed.  

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of Dave Mcneely
Sent: Wednesday, January 22, 2014 6:12 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Re: Air Conditioning help

---- Stuart MacMillan <stuartmacm@gmail.com> wrote:
> It's nice to be comfortable driving, but for me the reason for owning a Vanagon is the destination, and you are going to be dealing with the heat then.  If it's a daily driver it's probably worth fixing the A/C though.

Well, I often drive through brutal heat, but arrive at a much cooler sometimes quite cool) destination.  Yes, the reason to have the vehicle is the destinations one visits.  It is often very hot between here and there, and sometimes takes multiple days to get there.

Sincerely, mcneely

>
> Good luck!
>
> Stuart
> '85 Westy, A/C removed
>
> Snip:
>
> ". . . I think I'll take the advice that said try harder to find the leak(s), fix them if found, and recharge the system.  If it is still leaking after another round, I may give up on the AC, and just swelter.  I don't use AC at home much, even when it is brutal, unless someone is sick."
>
> mcneely
>

--
David McNeely