Vintage Air Guidance

[joesscamaro]

All, I'm in the process of ordering some parts for my truck and wanted to get some opinions on the Vintage Air system I'm going to order. I'm going to be doing an LS1 conversion and when I was speaking to the sales person they asked if I was going to use the stock LS compressor and LS drive system. They also gave me the option to go aftermarket compressor and the necessary bracket. What are the advantages of going aftermarket compressor, if any? Why wouldn't I just use the stock equipment? Any advice is appreciated.

[The Rocknrod]

FAQ section of this website - http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=467956

Vintage air? Who has it in their truck - http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=467956
OLD AIR vs VINTAGE AIR - http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=337366
Vintage air vs Classic Auto Air- Anyone? - http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=636980
Vintage Air vs. LMC - http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=707546

[joesscamaro]

Thanks for the links! I'm fairly familiar with the actual system, after doing quite a bit of reading. I am just wondering if there is any specific reason people go with the aftermarket compressor instead of using stock? I plan to use my stock compressor unless I am persuaded otherwise.

[racecougar]

From what I see thus far (just set my engine in place), you'll have to give up a bit of engine set-back in order to fit the stock LS AC compressor. I can snap some photos this weekend if it will help.

[joesscamaro]

Yeah, that would be great! I was wondering if it was mainly just a fitment issue. I haven't sent my payment yet, so I may end up adding the compressor and bracket to my order.

[TopFuel1966]

I've had no issues with using the factory compressor and mounting location on my 5.3. The fit is a little tight against the frame but the compressor is easily accessible from the bottom side.

[cooperhw]

The reason they ask about the stock (to the LS motor) compressor or aftermarket is because the stock compressor often times has a "variable output compressor" (probably not correct word) as opposed to the aftermarket unit will either be on or off with no in-between. I would recommend using the aftermarket unit. I tried the new compressor (came with the accessory drive kit from GM) on my last build and finally took it off and replaced it. aftermarket unit worked well.
Call Vintage air. The Tech guy is happy to talk to you and explain it better.

[joesscamaro]

Thanks for the picture!

That's the problem and frustration for me right now...I'm currently overseas for work and don't have access to a phone. So, I've been talking with them on here and it's hard sometimes to get everything across. That's why I was asking for personal opinions. Thanks for the input though! I may just add the compressor and brackets to the list.

[racecougar]

Originally Posted by TopFuel1966

I've had no issues with using the factory compressor and mounting location on my 5.3. The fit is a little tight against the frame but the compressor is easily accessible from the bottom side.

This is the best pic I have at the moment; I can get a better shot this weekend. Clearance to the frame doesn't look to be an issue, but the engine mount plates completely overlap the compressor mounting. That can be mitigated by moving the engine forward, but I don't want to go that route.

[joesscamaro]

Oh yeah, it looks like you won't have much, if any, clearance for the compressor. Are the aftermarket compressors smaller in size?

[cooperhw]

I bought a mount bracket kit from Dirty Dingo and it moves the compressor way up high and out of the area where the frame is. Works like a charm.

[drmatera]

Originally Posted by racecougar

wow, your engine is set way father back than mine. Maybe I have the mounts in wrong