63 Riviera AC vent doors opening and closing

[Turbinator]

I just got my 63 Riviera out of the shop for AC repairs. The mechanic told me the doors keep opening and closing and he does not know off hand what the fix is.

The AC is blowing cold (24 degrees F ) and seems to be working fine for its system design. Is there a vacuum switch or something else might remedy the problem of the doors opening and closing on their own?

Many Thanks

Red Riviera Bob

[RivNut]

There's a very good system trouble shooting guide in the chassis manual.  LOTS of vacuum lines control the A/C system.  

Edited August 2, 2017 by RivNut (see edit history)

[Turbinator]

11 minutes ago, RivNut said:

There's a very good system trouble shooting guide in the chassis manual.  LOTS of vacuum lines control the A/C system.  

Ed, fortunately I have the chassis manual that can be used to run down the problem.

Thanks for the guidance and direction.

Red Riviera Bob

[KongaMan]

If you're blowing 24°, you might have issues with your evaporator freezing up.  Is your AC guy familiar with the STV and adjustment thereof?

 

BTW, are you running R12 or did you convert to 134A?

 

If you've got vacuum problems related to leaking diaphragms, you may have to fix them yourself, as replacements may not be available for all of them. I disassembled them and replaced the diaphragms with new rubber cut from an inner tube I bought at Walmart.  And if you need to remove the diaphragm on the bottom of the blower box, bone up on your profanity first.

[1965rivgs]

7 hours ago, Red Riviera Bob said:

I just got my 63 Riviera out of the shop for AC repairs. The mechanic told me the doors keep opening and closing and he does not know off hand what the fix is.

The AC is blowing cold (24 degrees F ) and seems to be working fine for its system design. Is there a vacuum switch or something else might remedy the problem of the doors opening and closing on their own?

Many Thanks

Red Riviera Bob

Be sure there is a vacuum check valve in the vacuum feed line. Otherwise, when engine vacuum is low, as in medium to heavy acceleration, the vacuum in the HVAC system can bleed back into the intake manifold and cause issues with the HVAC doors. There is a factory check valve at the intake manifold but they are often bad.

Having stated the above ANY vacuum leak in the system can cause overall vacuum level to be low and affect other areas/components in the system.

  Tom Mooney

[Turbinator]

Tom, thank you very much for the insider information. I believe a vacuum problem exists somewhere. I suppose buying the factory check valve at the intake manifold would be a good idea.

Many thanks,

Red Riviera Bob

[Jim Cannon]

1963 models do not have any vacuum reservoir for the A/C system.  That ends up causing the doors to close when you step on the gas, even if there is only a very small vacuum leak.  I added a small vacuum storage can (plastic) from a later model full size Buick to the vacuum supply line before the control unit on the inner fender.  This provides enough storage buffer to keep the vents in the correct position when you accelerate.

 

This very low air temperature sounds like the Suction Throttle Valve (STV) may be stuck on maximum or the diaphragm that controls it is not working.  Or it may need to be adjusted to a bit higher pressure/temperature.

 

The Thermal Expansion Valve should prevent the core from freezing.

[RivNut]

You'll also not find an NOS vacuum check valve.  Best thing to do is check with the "parts" vendors who advertise in the Riview's classified section.  Gene Guarnere, Bob Stemm, Steve Lorenzen come to mind as possible sources.

 

Ed

[1965rivgs]

8 hours ago, Jim Cannon said:

1963 models do not have any vacuum reservoir for the A/C system.  That ends up causing the doors to close when you step on the gas, even if there is only a very small vacuum leak.  I added a small vacuum storage can (plastic) from a later model full size Buick to the vacuum supply line before the control unit on the inner fender.  This provides enough storage buffer to keep the vents in the correct position when you accelerate.

 

This very low air temperature sounds like the Suction Throttle Valve (STV) may be stuck on maximum or the diaphragm that controls it is not working.  Or it may need to be adjusted to a bit higher pressure/temperature.

 

The Thermal Expansion Valve should prevent the core from freezing.

Jim,

  The `64 and `65 vacuum cans have an internal check valve, perhaps the can you installed does also. My `84 and `85 also have an external check valve. I had to eliminate the check valve at one time because the nipple broke off and had the same problem with the HVAC doors as the earlier models with a bad check valve.

  Tom

[Chasander]

KongaMan

I have that dual diaphragm removed from the air box on my 63. Of course I cannot  find a replacement. I never thought I could repair this one.Any words of wisdom would be appreciated.

[RivNut]

https://www.classicbuicks.com/product-category/heater-a-c-parts/air-conditioning-system-parts/a-c-heater-duct-door-vacuum-diaphragm/?orderby=menu_order

 

 

These kinds of parts come from the regular sources for the restoration of classic Buicks.  

Edited August 3, 2017 by RivNut (see edit history)

[KongaMan]

5 hours ago, Chasander said:

I have that dual diaphragm removed from the air box on my 63. Of course I cannot  find a replacement. I never thought I could repair this one.Any words of wisdom would be appreciated.

 

It's been a while since I did this, but I remember it as being pretty straightforward:

- Separate the two halves by opening the crimp and pulling them apart.

- Cut a new diaphragm from the inner tube.

- Remove the plunger from the old diaphragm and attach it to the new one.

- Put the new diaphragm back in the shell, with a light bead of sealant around the edge.

- Put the two halves of the shell back together and squeeze/hammer the crimp back down.

 

Before you do this, I'd suggest that you double check that the diaphragm is at fault (you'd hate to do this just to find out the problem is a leaky hose or a mechanical problem with an air door ).  Plug one port and suck on the other.  Does it hold vacuum?

 

You might also find this helpful: http://www.chip.com/buick/techtips/dual-stage.html.

 

And if you would rather get a replacement, Old Air Products has one.  They also sell a vacuum check valve.  I have no experience with either part, and can't vouch for their suitability or performance.

Edited August 3, 2017 by KongaMan (see edit history)

[Jim Cannon]

When testing the dual diaphragm units, be aware:  To test the 1/2 way back operation, apply vacuum to only the outer port.  It should hold.  Then to test the full pull back operation, apply vacuum to both nipples (not just the center port).  It should hold vacuum.  If you only apply vacuum to the center port, it will leak and act like it is bad when it is not.

 

 

[KongaMan]

36 minutes ago, Jim Cannon said:

When testing the dual diaphragm units, be aware:  To test the 1/2 way back operation, apply vacuum to only the outer port.  It should hold.  Then to test the full pull back operation, apply vacuum to both nipples (not just the center port).  It should hold vacuum.  If you only apply vacuum to the center port, it will leak and act like it is bad when it is not.

 

As I mentioned earlier, it's been a while (like maybe 15 years) since I disemboweled mine, but if you apply vacuum to the center port and plug the outside port, it should hold, correct?  That is, the key is plugging the outside port.  IOW, there is (I think) a check valve in the center port which holds it shut until vacuum is applied, but the outer port is just a hole.  Which is why applying vacuum to the outside port only will hold, but the center port only will not.

 

Am I misremembering this?

[Jim Cannon]

Yes, plugging the outer port also works.  Or apply vacuum.  The main thing is to not leave it open.

 

 

[KongaMan]

That actually raises another issue.  If vacuum is applied to the outside port and it doesn't hold, try again while manually plugging the center port.  If it holds then, you'll know it's the check valve/second stage and not the diaphragm.  If that's stuck open, you may be able to free it up by moving the actuator rod back and forth and/or gently blowing through the center port.

[Chasander]

The one you linked to at old air products looks different. Does it perform the same function?

[Turbinator]

On 8/2/2017 at 6:43 PM, 1965rivgs said:

Be sure there is a vacuum check valve in the vacuum feed line. Otherwise, when engine vacuum is low, as in medium to heavy acceleration, the vacuum in the HVAC system can bleed back into the intake manifold and cause issues with the HVAC doors. There is a factory check valve at the intake manifold but they are often bad.

Having stated the above ANY vacuum leak in the system can cause overall vacuum level to be low and affect other areas/components in the system.

  Tom Mooney

Tom, thanks again for your valuable input on my AC problem. I now have cold Air. The volume of air coming from the vents is low as I have described, but will a properly functioning AC in a 63 Buick Riviera cool ( R12) the cabin in say 15min- 20 min? I'm only talking about comfort level for 2 people in the front seat in 90 degree weather with high humidity we have in central Maryland during the summer months. ( I do not need to store refrigerated products :-)) )

I understand an AC system that is working right from 1963 Riviera is not going cool like a full size year 2017 GM car.  My next steps are to put on an AC vacuum canister on the inner fender with check valve in the proper position. Additionally, I'm replacing the #1 vacuum switch ( 1194602 ) AC control on the panel under the hood. I wouldn't mind performing another leak test as well. Assuming there are no leaks AND the AC system is functioning as it should AND with the additional repairs should I experience a significant level of cold air volume? I know the word significant can mean different things to different people.

Thanks again.

[1965rivgs]

27 minutes ago, Red Riviera Bob said:

Tom, thanks again for your valuable input on my AC problem. I now have cold Air. The volume of air coming from the vents is low as I have described, but will a properly functioning AC in a 63 Buick Riviera cool ( R12) the cabin in say 15min- 20 min? I'm only talking about comfort level for 2 people in the front seat in 90 degree weather with high humidity we have in central Maryland during the summer months. ( I do not need to store refrigerated products :-)) )

I understand an AC system that is working right from 1963 Riviera is not going cool like a full size year 2017 GM car.  My next steps are to put on an AC vacuum canister on the inner fender with check valve in the proper position. Additionally, I'm replacing the #1 vacuum switch ( 1194602 ) AC control on the panel under the hood. I wouldn't mind performing another leak test as well. Assuming there are no leaks AND the AC system is functioning as it should AND with the additional repairs should I experience a significant level of cold air volume? I know the word significant can mean different things to different people.

Thanks again.

Low volume from the AC registers is generally attributable to the vacuum actuator located at the upper pass side of the firewall. There should be mechanical linkage which is exposed enabling you to judge whether the vacuum can is pulling it all the way to the limit of its travel. If not, one can physically pull the linkage toward the can and block it there to direct full blower volume to the AC registers.

If the can is not performing properly it could be due to low vacuum or the can is bad. Both possibilities are very common. I would suggest simply replacing it rather than trying to "rebuild" it. We are fortunate a replacement is available!

Keep in mind there can be other causes for low volume like air leaks in the post blower system. Hope this helps,

 

  Tom

 

PS The original systems can blow ice cold, ie 36 degrees F at the pass AC vent, but if using R134 results will be less. In addition to the efficiency of the AC refrigerant system one must consider whether the cabin is well sealed. The first gen Rivs leak air profusely so good weatherstripping and sealing at the frameless glass interfaces is very important to keep cabin temps low enough to be comfortable in challenging conditions.

[KongaMan]

1 hour ago, Red Riviera Bob said:

...will a properly functioning AC in a 63 Buick Riviera cool ( R12) the cabin in say 15min- 20 min? I'm only talking about comfort level for 2 people in the front seat in 90 degree weather with high humidity we have in central Maryland during the summer months. ( I do not need to store refrigerated products :-)) )

 

I've got a 63 Electra that will get meatlocker cold.  The 64 Riviera never worked as well, but it worked well enough to handle Texas, so it wasn't that bad.  I've since converted the 64 to R134A (so the performance has diminished a bit), but it still gets the job done.

[Turbinator]

Mr. Konga Man, thank you for giving the info I have been looking for. The AC in the 63 can, and I hope, " Get the job done."

I'm not a mechanic so I've had to p a y for all the work done and it's starting to creep to a number I don't want to admit. The forum gives me some solace in knowing I have some knowledge about the subject to protect myself. I source all the parts and hand the goods over to what I believe is a good shop.

thanks for the input, I really appreciate the help you guys provide.

Red Riviera Bob

[Turbinator]

1 hour ago, 1965rivgs said:

Low volume from the AC registers is generally attributable to the vacuum actuator located at the upper pass side of the firewall. There should be mechanical linkage which is exposed enabling you to judge whether the vacuum can is pulling it all the way to the limit of its travel. If not, one can physically pull the linkage toward the can and block it there to direct full blower volume to the AC registers.

If the can is not performing properly it could be due to low vacuum or the can is bad. Both possibilities are very common. I would suggest simply replacing it rather than trying to "rebuild" it. We are fortunate a replacement is available!

Keep in mind there can be other causes for low volume like air leaks in the post blower system. Hope this helps,

 

  Tom

 

PS The original systems can blow ice cold, ie 36 degrees F at the pass AC vent, but if using R134 results will be less. In addition to the efficiency of the AC refrigerant system one must consider whether the cabin is well sealed. The first gen Rivs leak air profusely so good weatherstripping and sealing at the frameless glass interfaces is very important to keep cabin temps low enough to be comfortable in challenging conditions.

Tom, Im making progress and hopeful what I've spent on bell arm replication in the HVAC control panel, installation, compressor, drier, hoses, R12 and the like haven't been for a half baked system. I bought a rebuilt STV and Actuator from Old Air and had that installed along with the compressor and drier. So, with a good vacuum reservoir and check valve and all the stuff working properly I should be cool enough. Oh, when I had the upholstery installed with carpet I had ALL the weather stripping replaced at the same time. New weather stripping should help plug up the holes.

Thanks again for. your support.

Red Riviera Bob

[KongaMan]

Does Old Air offer a true STV these days?  They used to offer only a "replacement" that was little more than a thermal switch that cycled the compressor on and off. That is, they completely subverted the original design of the system.  I didn't like the idea of cruising down the road with the compressor constantly slamming on and off.

[RivNut]

1 hour ago, KongaMan said:

Does Old Air offer a true STV these days?  They used to offer only a "replacement" that was little more than a thermal switch that cycled the compressor on and off. That is, they completely subverted the original design of the system.  I didn't like the idea of cruising down the road with the compressor constantly slamming on and off.

That's the way all modern systems work.  Your A6 compressor is very tough and reliable.  I know many folks who've made this adaptation and are very happy with it.

[Turbinator]

Gents, Old Air rebuilt a core STV for my 63 Riviera. Old Air included the Actuator as well, now it was pricey. Nonetheless, it came back all pretty and installed on my 63. I wanted to stay with R12 and original design with the STV. The idea of an update kit did not sit well with me. I don't know much, but I know some things. ( I'm not the guy who wants to fight a battle with bows and arrows when a machine gun is available and working )

Old Air does not sell new STV ( to my Knowledge ) , but they will rebuild yours if you provide the core. I understand old air will rebuild to your specifications.

Hope this sheds some light.

TedRiviera Bob

Edited August 6, 2017 by Red Riviera Bob
Forgot "did not" (see edit history)

[RivNut]

 Old Air Products sells an STV (suction throttle valve) eliminator kit.  This replace the STV and incorporates a cycling compressor like modern systems. $165.  

[KongaMan]

1 hour ago, RivNut said:

That's the way all modern systems work.  Your A6 compressor is very tough and reliable.  I know many folks who've made this adaptation and are very happy with it.

Modern cars have fuel injection and disc brakes, too.   

 

IMHO, a binary system (full cold or off) isn't much of a system.  That's like having cruise control that's either full throttle or idle.

Edited August 6, 2017 by KongaMan (see edit history)

[RivNut]

You're familiar with the concept. Hold the temp until it drops a little, then the compressor kicks on and cools it down again.  You're home's HVAC system. Unless you're still stoking an old coal furnace and have one of those big units in a window which blows air across a pool of water from your garden hose.

[Chasander]

Undid the crimps on both of the diaphragms. The bottom membrane is torn and I think I could replace. The top diaphragm looks OK but there is a grommet/seal at the bottom hole that is shot. looks like some sort of a special seal.  I will order the diaphragm  from Old Air Products.

Edited August 8, 2017 by Chasander
added pic (see edit history)

[Turbinator]

On 8/6/2017 at 10:39 AM, 1965rivgs said:

Low volume from the AC registers is generally attributable to the vacuum actuator located at the upper pass side of the firewall. There should be mechanical linkage which is exposed enabling you to judge whether the vacuum can is pulling it all the way to the limit of its travel. If not, one can physically pull the linkage toward the can and block it there to direct full blower volume to the AC registers.

If the can is not performing properly it could be due to low vacuum or the can is bad. Both possibilities are very common. I would suggest simply replacing it rather than trying to "rebuild" it. We are fortunate a replacement is available!

Keep in mind there can be other causes for low volume like air leaks in the post blower system. Hope this helps,

 

  Tom

 

PS The original systems can blow ice cold, ie 36 degrees F at the pass AC vent, but if using R134 results will be less. In addition to the efficiency of the AC refrigerant system one must consider whether the cabin is well sealed. The first gen Rivs leak air profusely so good weatherstripping and sealing at the frameless glass interfaces is very important to keep cabin temps low enough to be comfortable in challenging conditions.

Tom, when you say " upper pass sideof the firewall" could the location be under hood on the passenger side of the car? The " can" , is this the vacuum Actuator? If so, I be pulled the mechanical linkage and it is very very hard to move. It is hard for me to be believe there is enough vacuum from the Actuator to move anything. One of my friends were trying to get some volume of air moving some way or another. I was in the cabin and he pushed and pulled on the vacuum Actuator linkage while taking off a vacuum hose to the Actuator,  I got enough air volume equal to a hurricane. 

I bought some a vacuum hose kit because the hoses looked awful weak. The mechanic that did the AC compressor, drier, evacuate the old AC R12 gas and did get the cold air working said I needed a #1 vacuum switch AC control part # 1194602. Actually the mechanic pointed to the switch and said you need one of those switches. The mechanic didn't say anything about the Actuator or hoses. Now, I left the shop paying for 8 hours labor and a diagnostic fee. I had cold air, but I couldn't get the cold air in the cabin. I have no beef paying for the work that was completed, but don't you think I should have been given some direction for next steps  to get the air in the cabin?

In summary, you are suggesting a new vacuum Actuator could improve the operation ? Old Air has one for $52.00.

all I've got to do is to get the vents working, the cold air is there. Thanks again for your help.

Red Riviera Bob

[KongaMan]

The problem here is not that you don't have cold air, but that you don't have it coming out of the vents, correct?  Did you test the actuator to see if it holds vacuum?  You should be able to generate enough vacuum with your lungs to operate the diaphragm.  Failing that, a MightyVac can come in handy for lots of things on these cars.  Irrespective of the vacuum source, can you get the thing to move like it should?

 

Remember, the actuator is working against a spring when it pulls the door.  The spring shouldn't be that strong, but there's a chance that the door pivots could use a little lube.  And face it, just about every moving part inside the blower box could probably benefit from from being cleaned and lubed after 50 years.  You probably don't want to hear (or do) this, but pulling the blower box and lubing everything inside (motor, fan, linkage, etc.) wouldn't be the dumbest thing you ever did to your car.

 

All of this is to say that you can't identify a solution until you've identified the problem.  Incorrect air flow is a symptom.  While that usually indicates a problem with the actuator, that's not always the case.  For example, you might have a leak in the vacuum line.  Do you have a vacuum gauge?  (Again, the MightyVac could be real helpful.)  Put the gauge on each of the two lines, then wiggle the lines to see if you get a steady reading.  It's not unusual for a line to split or melt.  As suggested, the problem could be the vacuum switch.  If it leaks, you won't be getting full vacuum at the actuator.  You really need to find what's which component isn't working correctly rather than throwing parts and money at it until you guess right.

 

In the meantime, if you really want that air to come out of the vents, pull the linkage out out all the way and clamp a small pair of vice grips on it so it can't retract.

 

[1965rivgs]

6 hours ago, Red Riviera Bob said:

Tom, when you say " upper pass sideof the firewall" could the location be under hood on the passenger side of the car? The " can" , is this the vacuum Actuator? If so, I be pulled the mechanical linkage and it is very very hard to move. It is hard for me to be believe there is enough vacuum from the Actuator to move anything. One of my friends were trying to get some volume of air moving some way or another. I was in the cabin and he pushed and pulled on the vacuum Actuator linkage while taking off a vacuum hose to the Actuator,  I got enough air volume equal to a hurricane. 

I bought some a vacuum hose kit because the hoses looked awful weak. The mechanic that did the AC compressor, drier, evacuate the old AC R12 gas and did get the cold air working said I needed a #1 vacuum switch AC control part # 1194602. Actually the mechanic pointed to the switch and said you need one of those switches. The mechanic didn't say anything about the Actuator or hoses. Now, I left the shop paying for 8 hours labor and a diagnostic fee. I had cold air, but I couldn't get the cold air in the cabin. I have no beef paying for the work that was completed, but don't you think I should have been given some direction for next steps  to get the air in the cabin?

In summary, you are suggesting a new vacuum Actuator could improve the operation ? Old Air has one for $52.00.

all I've got to do is to get the vents working, the cold air is there. Thanks again for your help.

Red Riviera Bob

Hi Bob,

  Yes, that is the actuator and location I was referring to.

Obviously the door/linkage should be free enough for the actuator to do its job.

You could try disconnecting the linkage from the actuator and see if the actuator is retracting when it should. These are almost always bad or work intermittently but who knows, you may get lucky.

As I and others have stated you can force/hold the linkage in the AC position as a temporary repair.

  Tom

[Turbinator]

2 hours ago, 1965rivgs said:

Hi Bob,

  Yes, that is the actuator and location I was referring to.

Obviously the door/linkage should be free enough for the actuator to do its job.

You could try disconnecting the linkage from the actuator and see if the actuator is retracting when it should. These are almost always bad or work intermittently but who knows, you may get lucky.

As I and others have stated you can force/hold the linkage in the AC position as a temporary repair.

  Tom

Tom, I be had the 63 for over a year. The good thing about the car is not much at all had been maintained nor molested. I've had to rebuild carb and brake booster. My list of deferred maintenance updates and preventive maintenance items  could go on and on. Thank you for the help on the vacuum actuator. I'll order the actuator today. In the meantime I'll initiate the temp fix on the actuator.

thanks again

Red Riviera Bob

[Turbinator]

8 hours ago, KongaMan said:

The problem here is not that you don't have cold air, but that you don't have it coming out of the vents, correct?  Did you test the actuator to see if it holds vacuum?  You should be able to generate enough vacuum with your lungs to operate the diaphragm.  Failing that, a MightyVac can come in handy for lots of things on these cars.  Irrespective of the vacuum source, can you get the thing to move like it should?

 

Remember, the actuator is working against a spring when it pulls the door.  The spring shouldn't be that strong, but there's a chance that the door pivots could use a little lube.  And face it, just about every moving part inside the blower box could probably benefit from from being cleaned and lubed after 50 years.  You probably don't want to hear (or do) this, but pulling the blower box and lubing everything inside (motor, fan, linkage, etc.) wouldn't be the dumbest thing you ever did to your car.

 

All of this is to say that you can't identify a solution until you've identified the problem.  Incorrect air flow is a symptom.  While that usually indicates a problem with the actuator, that's not always the case.  For example, you might have a leak in the vacuum line.  Do you have a vacuum gauge?  (Again, the MightyVac could be real helpful.)  Put the gauge on each of the two lines, then wiggle the lines to see if you get a steady reading.  It's not unusual for a line to split or melt.  As suggested, the problem could be the vacuum switch.  If it leaks, you won't be getting full vacuum at the actuator.  You really need to find what's which component isn't working correctly rather than throwing parts and money at it until you guess right.

 

In the meantime, if you really want that air to come out of the vents, pull the linkage out out all the way and clamp a small pair of vice grips on it so it can't retract.

 

Mr. Konga Man, your directions are understood and appreciated. Yes, you are right on with digging and finding the root of the problem. Throwing $ away needlessly goes against my grain.

Lubricating hinges and cables inside the blower box is something I can do. I'm a big fan of proper lubrication on mechanical parts that perform work. When you mentioned " Mighty Vac" I thought you meant a brand name vacuum cleaner. I believe the Might Vac is a tool I can use to track vacuum pressure. I'll check it out. I'd hate to buy a new actuator and vacuum switch ( which I already have on order) and find the AC still doesn't work. I'm not mechanical, but my persistence and resilience in such efforts takes me a long way.

thank you again for your help,

Red Riviera Bob

[Turbinator]

On 8/2/2017 at 6:43 PM, 1965rivgs said:

Be sure there is a vacuum check valve in the vacuum feed line. Otherwise, when engine vacuum is low, as in medium to heavy acceleration, the vacuum in the HVAC system can bleed back into the intake manifold and cause issues with the HVAC doors. There is a factory check valve at the intake manifold but they are often bad.

Having stated the above ANY vacuum leak in the system can cause overall vacuum level to be low and affect other areas/components in the system.

  Tom Mooney

Tom,I took the brass check valve at the intake manifold and cleaned it with carb cleaner and 000 steel wool. The little washer must be vulcanized because I did not manage to loose it, the spring on the little thing on the end of the spring. I ordered a Mighty Vac vacuum pressure kit so I'll have to wait until I get that tool to see if the check valve is any good or not. I'm in high hopes with a friend helping me ( who is a 40+ year veteran mechanic ) the vacuum system will get straightened out before the end of October. I;d like to use it once or twice before cool weather.

Thanks again.

RRB

[RivNut]

Did you disassemble it?  It's been a loooooooong time but if I remember correctly, you can take it apart and inspect each part.  Seems to me I remember a stainless ball, and a spring that make up the check valve. But as I said, it's been a looooooooong time.  I could ever thinking of so e thing entirely different.

Edited August 13, 2017 by RivNut (see edit history)

[KongaMan]

Again, folks, all you need for a quick check of these diaphragms, switches, and valves is a piece of hose and your lungs.  You can easily generate enough vacuum to test and operate any of these components.  Don't make it harder than it needs to be.

[Turbinator]

On 8/13/2017 at 6:34 PM, RivNut said:

Did you disassemble it?  It's been a loooooooong time but if I remember correctly, you can take it apart and inspect each part.  Seems to me I remember a stainless ball, and a spring that make up the check valve. But as I said, it's been a looooooooong time.  I could ever thinking of so e thing entirely different.

Ed, I took it apart and cleaned it up. At the end of a spring is a fitting that seats on top of the rubber ring. The fitting younand are ai referring is not a ball. After I put the brass check valve back together and tested it would not hold a vacuum. I bought a check valve from Cold Air. It appears as though the AC project is making progress. Half of the job is completed as I have cold air. The second part of the job is to get the cold in the cabin at an acceptable volume. Stay tuned.

RRB

[Riviera63]

On 8/9/2017 at 10:59 PM, Red Riviera Bob said:

Tom, when you say " upper pass sideof the firewall" could the location be under hood on the passenger side of the car? The " can" , is this the vacuum Actuator? If so, I be pulled the mechanical linkage and it is very very hard to move. It is hard for me to be believe there is enough vacuum from the Actuator to move anything. One of my friends were trying to get some volume of air moving some way or another. I was in the cabin and he pushed and pulled on the vacuum Actuator linkage while taking off a vacuum hose to the Actuator,  I got enough air volume equal to a hurricane. 

I bought some a vacuum hose kit because the hoses looked awful weak. The mechanic that did the AC compressor, drier, evacuate the old AC R12 gas and did get the cold air working said I needed a #1 vacuum switch AC control part # 1194602. Actually the mechanic pointed to the switch and said you need one of those switches. The mechanic didn't say anything about the Actuator or hoses. Now, I left the shop paying for 8 hours labor and a diagnostic fee. I had cold air, but I couldn't get the cold air in the cabin. I have no beef paying for the work that was completed, but don't you think I should have been given some direction for next steps  to get the air in the cabin?

In summary, you are suggesting a new vacuum Actuator could improve the operation ? Old Air has one for $52.00.

all I've got to do is to get the vents working, the cold air is there. Thanks again for your help.

Red Riviera Bob

 

 

Bob, 

 

Thank you for starting this thread. Reading this has helped me solve the problem I have had with my AC since I purchased my car. I too, had the same problem. Cold air, you could hear the blower fan going for all it was worth but,  low air flow at the AC vents in the car.  The maddening thing is that it would blow fine once in a great while. I went through and did several things that in hindsight were all good to do but, did not solve my problem. Including but not limited to replacing the #@%!*&! double diaphragm which was shot and removing the blower/heater box to replace the spring in there. I was fortunate to have small hands as I don't know how I would have gotten a couple of those screws out or back in on that heater box without a hoist to put the car on. This post that you and Tom were going back and forth on set me on the path to getting my car cooling the way it should. I just finished replacing the passenger side vacuum actuator on my car a half an hour ago. Problem solved! Powerful air flow out of all AC vents. Of course, now it probably won't get hot again until next summer. Here's hoping for hot weather for the trip to the ROA convention in Overland Park, KS next year. This is gives me a great sense of relief and accomplishment. This may not seem like much to the guys that know these cars and are mechanics but, for the "shade tree" mechanic it doesn't get any better than this. In my doing this replacement I ended up dealing with the #1, #2 and #3 vacuum switches because I did some vacuum line replacement. I talked to Jim Cannon about these. You should check all 3 to make sure that the plungers move freely. The grease hardens and they get sticky after all of these years. Spray some silicone in the vacuum ports and move the plungers back and forth to get them moving freely. Do not use WD 40. It may be that yours was just stuck. You can also put vacuum on the ports by mouth or with a vacuum tool to see if they work when you move the plungers. I had a couple that were pretty sticky. They are pretty easy to get to and remove. I hope you get to the bottom of your problems soon and thanks for indirectly helping me solve mine.

 

Bill

 

 

[KongaMan]

Bill,

 

Your setup looks just like mine (only cleaner ). It looks like you've converted to R134A. What kind of temperatures do you see at the vents? 

 

BTW, where is that vacuum actuator on a 63?

 

And congrats on the fix.  IMHO, sorting out HVAC vacuum issues is one of the most frustrating jobs on these cars.