Lonnie P

I searched a lot of threads & the consensus is that the Vette AC is hard to make work with the stock subframe.

My question is, who did this & what did you do to make it work with a stock subframe?

I found an excellent deal on the Vette accessories & want to use them if at all possible.

Also has anyone used the CTSV brackets with AC on a 3rd gen?
Does this kit work? What are the drawbacks?

My issue is that used F-body brackets are expensive, when I would rather buy new for just a little more.

QwkTrip

iTrader: (22)

Is the extra difficulty related to K-member or the motor mounts? I was under impression it is motor mounts that need extra attention with Corvette compressor?

Lonnie P

I have heard it is the motor mount bolts, but someone also mentioned the front lower control arm bolt location. This is why I asked for those who actually succeded in the conversion instead of those that said it wouldn't work.

I need to get the brackets before I miss the deal.
Wanted to use Vette brackets so the Vette ProCharger will fit in the future, otherwise I would try a high mount AC bracket.

Flip 2

iTrader: (1)

I have not tried with the stock K. However, from my experience with tubular Ks, I bet it won't work. Corvette accessories are 3/4" closer to the engine. That puts the compressor is in the way of everything.
I got a great deal on a C5 engine a few years ago. We are finally getting close (relative concept) to getting everything together. Just late this afternoon, I was looking at where my lines from the compressor will go- interesting.
This is what I have done to get things to (I Hope) work.
1) BMR K member- then had to notch the K member to get the compressor to fit. The Spohn I had first- no way it would ever fit. Only had room for the pulley.
2) Coil overs. The discharge line will go right through the right side spring pocket. There looks to be no room any other way. Fortunately, I made the coil over decision (long ago) for other reasons.

Lonnie P

Wondering if I could space everything forward 3/4" & it would work?

I hate the thought of buying used f-body accessories for nearly the same price as new Vette parts. This is why I want to make them work. Not interested in putting 10yr old used stuff on a brand new engine or spending nearly $1200 on all new F-body accessories.

Flip 2

iTrader: (1)

Lonnie, nice wish, but everything has to be rock solid.
On the other hand, I saw on here, someone who relocated the a/c compressor only. That might work. I think I saw it on one of the threads on 5 Seven's LSX sticky.
Anyway you do it, something's gonna run up the bill.
BTW, the F-body accessories are arranged in different locations than on the C5s.

Lonnie P

I do a lot of performance builds, but never a 3rd gen swap. Personally I like the Vette design better... Except for the AC. Looked at a c5 today. The AC is far back & the lines come out at an odd angle. Figured a custom motor mount could solve one problem, but the lines may a whole other problem.

Was also looking at a Trailblazer compressor, it is pretty small, but was not able to measure the mounting potential. I know they sit far forward, but would like to see what could be matched up with different brackets. They are closer to the engine & could lessen the notch required. Once I get the engine, I'll borrow one & see how it looks.

87irocjohn

Interesting thread - I was wondering the same thing about whether you can make the Vette accessories work, even if it requires a bit of fabrication...

QwkTrip

iTrader: (22)

I think Kwik Performance has an AC relocation bracket that uses the original 3rd gen AC compressor.

Mkos1980

iTrader: (8)

This is my goal to make it work this summer. I have the Vette setup and Tubular K member. I wil think of something. If i can get a Vette compressor with side ports like the CTS-V then it will work. There just isnt enough room for the lines so far.

Flip 2

iTrader: (1)

There are a couple of pics in here showing how I had to cut my BMR K.
https://www.thirdgen.org/forums/ltx-...u-gets-c5.html
I fit everything outside the car, with the K hooked up while the engine was on a stand.
I also tried a Spohn K... not a chance there.
Still need a fancy discharge hose. Have a fitting that will work. Will I get the rest of the hose to fit???

Lonnie P

It appears that the biggest hurdle with the stock k-memer would be the increased metal removal to fit the lines on the back of the compressor... plus the angle that they exit.

Did you look at the CTSV setup as it supposedly has the same belt spacing.
The lines are on the side instead of the rear.

Flip 2

iTrader: (1)

Have not seen it. If the C5 compressor does not work for me, I guess I'll take a look.
Not much room anywhere around there. Maybe that's why the F car accessories are placed differently.... yup, could be ;-)

QwkTrip

iTrader: (22)

It's not just 3rd gens. F body accessories are popular for most makes and models that do LS engine swaps. Combine that with the parts being obsolete by GM and you have high demand and high prices for the used parts.