mark79,80

I would like to purchase an assortment kit of O rings for use in installing A/C hoses on both a 1979 and 80 corvette.
I noticed several assortments at Amazon that are marketed for auto A/C that are green
in color. Do O rings for air conditioning need to be specific for air
conditioning or will the black colored o rings work just as well?
Sets of black o rings are marketed for hydraulic fluids as well as
other uses.

Would O rings for a 1979 and 1980 be metric?

qwank

You need specific ac o rings. You can buy them at AutoZone for about $6 for an assortment

zoomee

I just completed this job on my 78. I replaced the hoses with set from Autozone (best price around here). The hoses came with orings set but for good measure I also bought the specific kit as mentioned already. Also replaced compressor, drier, and orifice tube. Not an easy job but that cold air sure is nice.

mark79,80

Thanks for the replies.

Did you convert the system to R134 after replacing the parts you
listed? If so how is it cooling?

zoomee

Yes I converted it. At 75 degrees ambient temp the vents produce 43 degree air at idle. You will not be able to put the low side valve converter on the low side r12 valve near the compressor. NAPA has a 45 degree r12 to 134a valve that works nicely. The r12 Shrader valve will have to be removed, the 134a has its own. Absolutely no leaks and I'm pleased with it so far. Spent less than $300 on parts.

mark79,80

What compressor did you use and where was it purchased?

Thanks

zoomee

The original r4 from OReilly auto parts. Mine was rebuilt but new ones are less than $200 here. I've read that it's better to upgrade to sanden but I wanted my car original. Only time will tell if the r4 will hold up.

mark79,80

Thanks