Engine swap - can i add aircon to a non-aircon engine?

pete the bus · Post by **pete the bus** » 19 Sep 2007, 14:30

Hi.
Having decided to replace the blown up engine in my Xantia 1.9TD Estate, I want to know if its possible to use the aircon pump from my old engine with a non-aircon engine?
There are a few 1.9TD engines out there, but most of them seem to be non aircon.
The swap will be done by a mechanic friend, but i need to keep costs down and dont want him to find out that they are not compatible.
Any help very appreciated
Cheers
Peter

Post by **RichardW** » 19 Sep 2007, 14:33

Shouldn't be too bad - you will need to swap the sump, aux drive belt fittings, and possibly alternator and HP pump from your old engine to the new one. It's probably less hassle than fitting the non A/C engine where you will need to modify the alternator wiring and piping to the HP pump to make it fit.

alan s · Post by **alan s** » 19 Sep 2007, 22:30

Agree with Richard but will add just one point; don't throw the old set up away until it's installed and running. For certain, there'll be some little bit that you'll need.
Also, be certain you draw a "mud map" of the route the accessories belt takes when it snakes around all the pulleys and tensioner. Puts the reason why the belt is known as a "serpentine" into perspective.

Alan S

Post by **Peter.N.** » 19 Sep 2007, 22:33

Ideal time to do it while the engine is out, but dont forget you will have to take the heater out as well to fit the evaporator!

alan s · Post by **alan s** » 20 Sep 2007, 01:26

I don't think that's an issue Peter as they are just replacing the cars engine, the air/con gear evap etc, will already be installed in there.

Alan S

Post by **Peter.N.** » 20 Sep 2007, 11:19

Sorry! I got hold of the wrong end of the stick, I thought they wanted to fit aircon to a non aircon car - must be the age,

alan s · Post by **alan s** » 20 Sep 2007, 21:59

Know the feeling well.

Alan S