Aluminum vs. Copper AC condenser | FerrariChat

Aluminum vs. Copper AC condenser

Discussion in '308/328' started by ferrariowner, May 12, 2021.

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  1. ferrariowner

    ferrariowner Formula 3

    Feb 21, 2014
    1,109
    Mansfield, TX
    Full Name:
    Ron
    #1 ferrariowner, May 12, 2021
    I am about to undertake the dreaded AC upgrade. I plan to replace the cooling fans with hi quality 10" units and build a shroud for the entire assembly. The question is, should I replace the copper condenser with an alumium unit? FWIW- the copper unit works well with R134 (considering its a 308) as long as the car is moving.
    AC blower motor ugrade is next.
     
  2. thorn

    thorn F1 Rookie
    Silver Subscribed

    Aug 7, 2012
    3,322
    Tallahassee, FL
    #2 thorn, May 12, 2021
    If it's working well, I'd not replace it. Better fans will improve airflow, of course.
     
    mike996 likes this.
  3. Banzairacer

    Banzairacer Formula Junior
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    Aug 24, 2017
    482
    San Diego, CA
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    Sanjeev Thohan
    #3 Banzairacer, Nov 6, 2023
    What condenser are you thinking of using?
     
  4. Sergio Tavares

    Sergio Tavares Formula Junior

    Nov 15, 2018
    847
    Full Name:
    Sergio Tavares
    #4 Sergio Tavares, Nov 6, 2023
    No.
    Copper is superior conductor and will last longer, always costs more than Aluminium.
    Flush clean with good solvent as Heptane or like then use again and change the O-rings.
     
  5. Dr Tommy Cosgrove

    Dr Tommy Cosgrove Three Time F1 World Champ
    Owner Rossa Subscribed

    May 4, 2001
    35,349
    Birmingham, AL
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    Tommy
    #5 Dr Tommy Cosgrove, Nov 7, 2023
    Replace it with one that works when the car is stationary.

    If what is in there now is only good if you are moving, what it the point? Make it work like an a/c is supposed to.
     
    waymar likes this.
  6. Sergio Tavares

    Sergio Tavares Formula Junior

    Nov 15, 2018
    847
    Full Name:
    Sergio Tavares
    #6 Sergio Tavares, Nov 7, 2023
    Have you measured the subcooling on the condensor?
    It might just be low refigerant charge
     
    waymar likes this.

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