The largest drawback to driving a Healey these days is the heat. It has always been a disturbing fact of Healey life that the cars generate a considerable amount of heat. So much heat is generated that the heaters are seldom used. Over the years, many approaches have been tried. The approach with the best results is the most involved: Air Conditioning. Installing an A/C System is not to be undertaken lightly. The expense in time and money is not inconsiderable. However, the results will bring the joy back to driving your Healey.
Considerations:
What is the condition of your cooling system? You will probably want an aluminum radiator. I suggest an electric fan, either 14 or 15 inches mounted on the front side of the Xbrace.
You will need a condenser. I offer one that fits. There are other out there if you have the time and patience to find one.
Which evaporator do you want? Do you want heat and/or defrost in addition to A/C? Vacuum, cable, or electric door activation must be decided upon.
If your car is not already negative ground, it will have to be converted. The Voltage Regulator will need to be turned into a junction block. Your fuel pump must be negative ground. The coil leads, as well as battery leads must be reversed. If you have a BJ8, the tachometer will have to be converted. More than a couple of wires will have to be added to your harness.
Brackets and Alternator – $600.00
Included in the bracket package:
*Engine-mounted compressor bracket. (Replaces the generator bracket.)
*Compressor-mounted alternator bracket
*Hyme joint turnbuckle tensioners for both the compressor and alternator
*Chevrolet-style alternator
Condenser – $300.00 (Dual-path condenser designed specifically to fit the Healey 6-cylinder radiator.