Want a smooth firewall but need heat and defrost, Options?

[rob07002]

I want to smooth the firewall, but also need to have heat and defrost, no ac, what are my options? What have you guys done?

Pics would be great!

Thanks

[PT Goat]

I know you don't want AC, but I was able to run heat, AC, and defrost with a smooth firewall. I used a Vintage AC unit under the dash, and I ran a 4-way bulkhead fitting on a fabbed plate, which bolted inside the fender where the fan used to go (non-ac car). I then cut a hole above the factory fresh air vent in the kickpanel to allow the 4 lines to attach to the Vintage AC unit under the dash. Both the AC and coolant lines to the heater run between the fender and inner fender for a relatively stealth install.

You could do the same and skip the rest of the AC? Doesn't seem to be the most efficient route. Otherwise you could relocate the heater core inlets and outlets, but not sure what you'd do about a fan.

[rob07002]

Thanks for the reply Matt. Very descriptive. I figured I would have to use the vintage air setup. Damn! I see soo many cars with smoothe fw, and thought there was another way.

I guess I'll stick with the old setup for now.

[TonyHuntimer]

Rob,

That's a good question. The only possible way I can think of is to get a little portable heater like this:
http://www.clevergear.com/website/st...arch_page_no=1

I'm sure it's not as effective...but...

Tony Huntimer
RaceHome.com

[ZZ430]

Vintage Air makes a "Compact heater with defrost" It's very small and is mounted under the dash. I did this one on a 69 Camaro.








Even though the studs show in this pic, it could be mounted with no holes showing.

[Todds69]

Perfect timing. I in the process of doing the same thing, and not quite sure on what to do but was considering the Vintage unit.

[Damn True]

Don, if'n ya don't mind me asking....what did that setup cost?

That looks like exactly what I had in mind.

Though I am still not 100% certain that I am going w/o AC.

[ZZ430]

It's $200.

It works well, it includes a 3-speed switch, vacuum/electric solenoids, and control valve.

The door is vacuum controlled, default is defrost, and when floor heat is needed, a flapper opens on the bottom.

The only complaint I have is the noise. Of course it would be a little noisy since the motor and fan are open, but it's not unbearable.

And during the summer, it doesn't kill you with in-car heat because the control valve is closed.

[rob07002]

Interesting, That looks like a great alternative to the complete vintage ac system...

I'm going to have to look into that.

Thanks