55.2-59 gmc who has added heat and possibly a/c

[Missyblue]

So in trying to buy the right components for my engine rebuild I have been talking to Vintage air and old air trying to make sure I don't have to do things twice if I can help it. Anyone have experience with these companies and/or opinions? I do know that since I am GMC I can't use the chevy sure fit or their controllers from vintage air. And living in Colorado I will need some heat and the possibility of a/c someday isnt a horrible idea either but for now windows down and hanging your head out dog style is the plan haha. Also hoping this helps others because I am having a hard time finding much talk about it

So for vintage air for GMC you cannot use your original controls for any go their units and they recommend either

Gen II compact unit catalogue pg 49 and I have to pick a controller pg 50
https://www.vintageair.com/builder-s...%20II%20Compac
pros: 1. heat/defrost/ and a/c
2. vents mount in different locations

2nd they recommend a different style unit called an under dash unit
https://www.vintageair.com/builder-s...1=Under%20Dash
pros: compact. kinda looks decent. cheaper
cons: supposedly no defrost....but couldn't you maybe splice in a t and add a host to the defrost vents or maybe Im crazy haha

For Old air they have 2 recommendations

Cable operated system
https://www.oldairproducts.com/produ...defrost-system
pros: can use original gmc cable controls which would be cool
cons: I want them but don't have them haha. would cost from what I have seen around $300-400 to get an original controller unless I can get lucky and someone has a spare cheaper. then the system itself is more money also

cap 9105-s electronic pod. mounts behind glovebox
https://www.oldairproducts.com/produ...c-pu-cap-9105s
pros: comes with controllers.

they also have an under dash unit but they didn't recommend it up front so I will call today
https://www.oldairproducts.com/produ...eat-electronic

Seems the under dash units have less bulky things to install and might suffice for our tiny cabs. But curious of thoughts.

Also cable vs electronic for reliability?


Sorry of all the crazy just so much to process. Im sure I'll have more just asking advice and experience. I also know there are other companies just haven't gotten that far yet. Initial research seems they have similar options

Thanks!