New In-Dash A/C Vent Location

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jonn6464

1970 Duster
Joined
Mar 29, 2017
Messages
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Location
Weatherford, TX
I'm putting an aftermarket A/C system in my Duster, and I've been going back and forth on where to put the vents. I finally decided to go with my first instinct and install them in the space where the original heater controls go. I don't need the heater and the A/C comes with a stand alone control, so this spot was perfect.

After some thinking, here is the process for relocating the vents.

First, gotta figure out the size of the opening...
IMG_20210130_144751949.jpg


Nothing a sharp saw blade can't handle...
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Next, figure out the profile for the mounting bracket that will point the vents straight out from the dash...
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I punched out the flat sheet metal, with correct size knock outs for the vents. Then used a brake press to form it to fit the dash hole...
IMG_20210317_154244058.jpg

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Primed, painted, and clamped into place for the glue to set...
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Inserted the vents and trimmed the hole out with 1/8" adhesive chrome...
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Next will be resizing the hole for the stereo head unit!
 
Nice work! The location on the dash looks a little odd, but maybe it’s just that I’m used to seeing the controls there. I’ve always wanted to install an in-dash system instead of having the underdash vintage air. It may be more headache than it’s worth for lack of room.
 
Nice work! The location on the dash looks a little odd, but maybe it’s just that I’m used to seeing the controls there. I’ve always wanted to install an in-dash system instead of having the underdash vintage air. It may be more headache than it’s worth for lack of room.

Thanks. They are actually centered between the gauge cluster and the glove box, so the aesthetic is good. Some cars from the 60's and 70's had the center dash vents, and of course all of the modern cars do. Plus, I'm just not interested in smashing my knee off the under dash mount A/C anymore.
 
Nice work, looks like it belongs there. Where are the controls for the new system?
 
Nice work, looks like it belongs there. Where are the controls for the new system?
I haven't picked a spot yet. It is a simple control box, just with 2 knobs. One for fan speed, one for temp low-high.
I don't love the design, so I may either hide it somewhere or look for another controls set from another vehicle. Time will tell.
 
Very nice work. If you have a chance could you post pictures of the unit and part number. Need a a/c and heat unit for an early A body.Thanks
 
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