Has anyone had any recent experience with aftermarket AC units installed in the S1/S2 E-Type? I had one conversation with a long-time jag mechanic who said they were very difficult to install and didn’t work very well (but it has been awhile since he has done an installation). I am planning on doing a pretty extensive restoration of a yet-to-be-found-and-purchased XK-E and wonder if it would be worth installing AC while I have it taken apart, so to speak.

 

Hi Icanney100,
Look in the forum. Couple of threads below yours for "AC for 69 XKE". In the thread there is a link to a comapny that offers model specific AC systems.
I do not have personal experience with this company but they might be able to offer references.
I am presently retiring a 68 coupe that was originally sold with a dealer installed AC system. I will install the AC system in the car. It is possible that years ago the systems were not efficient. But consider that the interior in an E-Type is small, and with today's rotary compressors, efficient condensers and new design hoses, it should be easy to keep it cool. I am going to go out on a limb and say that you should be able to keep meat in the car.I will be using the original evaporator on my car, but it will be all new AC components. One thing that I am considering is an electric AC unit so as not to put a load on the engine as they are already hot running engines and I am not looking forward to putting more load on it.
Good luck with your search for your E-Type and let us know how you do.
Stay safe,
Bill.

 

Here are some reference kits and resources: https://www.classicautoair.com/shop/...ioning-system/

https://www.bridgeclassiccars.co.uk/...-conditioning/

https://retroair.com/jaguaraircondit...138lhdrhd.html

https://www.autoware.com.au/shop/ac-...oses%20More%20

 

Can the factory AC from a 68 be upgraded with a better blower fan and converted to R134a?

 

Jagbits has a kit, I haven't tried it because having worked on these things when I was younger (back when the cars were new) I'm not a fan so I pulled the AC from mine. https://www.jagbits.com/23r134a.html

Here is a video (different car) that showcases a far more involved process: https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q...tail&FORM=VIRE

I ran into this post that appears to suggest there is another path, be aware I've NOT vetted this source: https://www.kwecars.com/jaguar-tech-...nversion-myth/

 

My father passed away this morning. It makes my trips up to see him that much more valuable.

 

So sorry to hear that. I'm sure he cherished the time you two had together doing what you both loved. Finish the restoration. it will be a great tribute to you both and and a great demonstration of your lasting relationship.

 

Sorry to hear about your father. Hang in there!

 

Thank you kindly. Im even more glad I have his car.

 

Yes, and when you go for a dive he'll be your co-pilot. Stay safe, and once again, sorry for your loss...

 

I drove the car when running errands this morning. I would like to think that he was sitting in the passenger seat next to me as my Copilot. As I made repairs to the car oh, I would visit my parents and tell my dad about the things I did and show him pictures and any videos I made. I'm realizing that I can't do that anymore. He was a very difficult man to connect with except in the last couple of years and the Jag was the way for me to connect with him.

 

My mother died when I was very young and growing up I fabricated an imaginary mother who was always there for me, who I could talk to and she'd always listen, and would never judge. It was an imperfect solution but sometimes our imaginations can create what real life couldn't provide. You can choose how you relate to your now passed Father and may find, as I did, that your imagination can fill the gaps and make sure you always have a co-pilot. Losing a parent is always hard but you have your memories and, sometimes on a long drive, those memories can craft a companion. Even my fabricated memories do that for me and, I find, I'm never really alone.