The Old Air Products Hurricane Heat and A/C system is a popular choice among classic car and truck enthusiasts seeking to enhance the comfort and usability of their vintage vehicles. Designed to fit a wide range of American-made models from the 1920s through the mid-1970s, the system offers a compact, efficient solution for adding climate control without requiring a complete overhaul of the vehicle’s interior. While the Hurricane system is relatively straightforward to install, it does require careful planning and attention to detail, especially in older models where insulation and ventilation may need to be upgraded to support the system’s performance.
This article provides an in-depth overview of the Hurricane system, including its compatibility with various vehicles, installation requirements, and best practices for maximizing efficiency and performance. The content is based exclusively on information from verified sources, such as installation guides and user forums, and is intended to serve as a technical reference for DIY enthusiasts, restorers, and classic vehicle owners.
Overview of the Old Air Products Hurricane System
The Hurricane system from Old Air Products is a compact, under-dash evaporator/heater assembly designed for classic and vintage vehicles. It is marketed as a direct-fit or custom-fit solution for many American-made models, including Chevrolet and Ford trucks from the 1940s to the 1970s. The system includes components such as the evaporator unit, condenser, and fan assemblies, along with mounting plates, switching packages, and other necessary hardware.
One of the key advantages of the Hurricane system is its compact design, which allows for relatively easy installation without the need for major modifications to the vehicle’s interior. According to manufacturer documentation, the system is no more intrusive than the original heater in many models, making it a practical option for restorers and hobbyists who want to preserve the vehicle’s original look and feel.
The Hurricane system is available in a range of configurations to suit different vehicle types and engine sizes. Custom installation kits are available for specific models, such as the 1947–1972 Chevrolet and 1967–1972 Ford pickups, and these kits typically include all necessary components for a complete installation. In addition to the core climate control system, Old Air Products also offers optional components such as electric fans, insulation materials, and mounting hardware to ensure optimal performance and efficiency.
Compatibility and Vehicle Requirements
The Hurricane system is compatible with a wide range of American-built vehicles from 1928 through the mid-1970s, as well as some foreign and later-model vehicles. However, the level of compatibility and the specific requirements for installation may vary depending on the model and year of the vehicle. For example, the system is designed to work with 1947–1972 Chevrolets and 1967–1972 Ford pickups, but restorers and installers should verify the availability of custom installation kits for their specific models.
One of the primary considerations when installing the Hurricane system is the vehicle’s cooling system. The manufacturer recommends using a clutch-style or six-blade fan with a shroud to ensure proper airflow and cooling efficiency. Alternatively, an electric condenser fan may be used, but it must be wired to engage only when the A/C system is active. This requirement is important to prevent unnecessary strain on the cooling system and to ensure that the A/C system operates at optimal performance.
In addition to the cooling system, the vehicle’s insulation and ventilation system must be in good condition to support the Hurricane system’s performance. Older vehicles, especially those from the 1950s and earlier, may require additional insulation for the roof, firewall, and floorboards to maintain a consistent temperature inside the cabin. Any gaps or holes in the vehicle’s body that allow outside air to enter must be sealed, and weatherstrips should be in good condition to prevent heat loss or gain.
Installation Process and Requirements
Installing the Hurricane system involves several key steps, including preparing the vehicle, mounting the evaporator and condenser units, and connecting the electrical and plumbing components. The process may vary slightly depending on the specific model and year of the vehicle, but the general approach remains consistent across most installations.
One of the first steps in the installation process is modifying the vehicle’s firewall and dash to accommodate the evaporator unit. This typically involves cutting holes for the necessary hoses and ducts and, in some cases, shortening the glovebox to allow for proper clearance. These modifications should be done carefully to avoid compromising the structural integrity of the vehicle or damaging existing components.
Once the firewall and dash have been modified, the evaporator unit can be mounted under the dash. The unit is designed to fit in a compact space, but restorers should ensure that there is enough room for proper ventilation and airflow. The condenser unit is typically mounted in the front of the vehicle, either behind the grille or in another location that allows for adequate airflow.
After the mechanical components have been installed, the electrical and plumbing systems must be connected. This includes wiring the system to the vehicle’s power supply and connecting the refrigerant lines to the condenser and evaporator units. The manufacturer recommends using high-quality insulation and sealing materials to prevent refrigerant leaks and to ensure that the system operates efficiently.
Once the system is installed, it should be tested to ensure that it is functioning correctly. This includes checking for leaks, verifying that the cooling and heating functions work as expected, and ensuring that the electrical components are operating safely. If any issues are encountered during testing, they should be addressed before the vehicle is put into regular use.
Enhancing Performance and Efficiency
To ensure that the Hurricane system operates at maximum efficiency, several additional improvements can be made to the vehicle. These include upgrading the insulation, sealing any gaps or holes in the body, and ensuring that the weatherstrips are in good condition. These improvements help to reduce heat transfer between the inside and outside of the vehicle, allowing the system to maintain a consistent temperature with less energy consumption.
Another important consideration is the vehicle’s overall insulation. Older models may require additional insulation for the roof, firewall, and floorboards to prevent heat from entering the cabin during the summer and to retain heat during the winter. Insulation materials such as foam panels or thermal barriers can be used to improve the vehicle’s thermal performance and reduce the workload on the climate control system.
In addition to insulation, the vehicle’s ventilation system should be checked to ensure that it is functioning properly. This includes inspecting the ducts, vents, and registers to make sure that they are not blocked or damaged. If necessary, the ventilation system can be upgraded or modified to improve airflow and ensure that the climate control system operates efficiently.
Conclusion
The Old Air Products Hurricane Heat and A/C system offers a practical and efficient solution for adding climate control to classic and vintage vehicles. With its compact design and compatibility with a wide range of models, the system is a popular choice among restorers and DIY enthusiasts who want to enhance the comfort and usability of their vehicles without compromising their original appearance.
While the installation process may require some modifications to the vehicle, the system is generally straightforward to install and can be completed with the right tools and materials. By following the manufacturer’s guidelines and making necessary improvements to the vehicle’s insulation and ventilation system, restorers can ensure that the Hurricane system operates at maximum efficiency and provides reliable performance for years to come.