I need a new A/C compressor for my (wife's) 68 Fairlane. There are two types, and I need to know if they are interchangeable? The car came with the iron compressor, which I believe is a Tecumseh. Will the aluminum (York type) fit?

Alternatively, anyone know where to get a reman iron compressor at a good price. I'm on a budget and can't afford the $330 that NAPA wants for a rebuilt unit. I see them on Ebay all the time, but it's hard to tell if they'll fit because they don't always list every compatible year.

I also posted this question on the Fairlane forum.

Thanks.

Chuck J.
64 Galaxie 390
68 Fairlane 289

I don't know if a York will fit, but I do have a brand new (not reman) Tecumseh compressor that I'm not going to use. I paid $125 for it a few years ago and I'll sell it for the same price plus shipping. It's got 1970-style tube-o fittings that you'll probably need to change, but you can get the correct fittings from places like Old Air Products, Classic Auto Air, or even your local parts store. Drop me a line if you're interested.

Scott Hollenbeck
http://www.428cobrajet.org/
Mustang 428 Cobra Jet Registry

According to my Mustang & Ford Small Block V8 1962-1969 the York and Tecumseh AC compressors are generally interchangeable. You will need to make sure you get the right clutch, some may have a different pulley offset. Clutches are interchangeable in between the York and Tecumseh.

Some early compressors won't have all the holes you need for your application drilled and tapped. I believe 1963 and earlier compressors are like that.

The oil fill hole has moved around over the years when these compressors were manufactured and it may be inaccessible when installed. In your case I believe you will be just fine in this respect.

I was hoping that the York compressor was an exact swap, as I don't want to change anything else. I've noticed that there are two different types of hook-ups, compressors with male or female connectors. I'll have to check mine to be sure. I seem to recall that the aluminum and iron have different types, don't remember for sure.

Scott, thanks for the offer. I'm on my way home from overseas now and will be home in a few days to compare what I have to what you offer. Can you send me a few pictures, especially the connectors to the hoses? Thanks. Email is: cjohnsonmp at yahoo dot com.

Chuck J.
64 Galaxie 390
68 Fairlane 289