kgorman

I am curious. I couldn't find anything by searching. I am wondering if one were to remove the A/C belt, how much relative HP gain would one see? Is there much drag caused from the A/C?

I know it's a small amount probably, but I am just curious.

Computamedic

I've got no figures but I guess it's got to be some - although not much. Bear in mind that the compressor clutch only engages when the compressor is required so, unless the a/c is switched on, the drive belt will only be driving the input shaft to the clutch.

I'd be surprised if you could feel the difference.

Regards

Dave

Drew_K

Do you mean compared to the A/C OFFand the belt connected, or A/C ON and the belt connected? With the A/C off and belt connected, my understanding is that there is virtually no HP loss because the belt has virtually no resistance with the A/C off.

I've heard the figure 3-5 hp loss with the A/C on.

MarkD

I'm surprised you didn't start with "how much does that A/C compressor weigh?"

You're totally engulfed in building a track beast, aren't ya?
(I'm jealous)

kgorman

92964 - I already thinking of pulling it out, I was just curious about the drag. hehe. Not a beast, just a nice workhorse.

I guess it makes sense unless I switch it on, it's just driving a shaft. Ok, I have the dumb question of the month award.

ckkrause

I understand that the older piston-based compressors used virtually no hp when freewheeling and somewhere around 16-18 hp when compressing and moving fluid through those long lines.......

-CKKrause

springer3

With the AC on it depends on the cooling load. I would bet 10 HP on a really hot day with a very hot cabin, and then 3 to 5 HP to maintain a cool cabin. With the AC off, power consumption is negligible, but the spinning mass is not insignificant. Look at the folks that use light weight fly wheels just to reduce the spinning mass. I doubt you could feel it, but you are burning gas and brakes every time you spin the clutch assembly up to speed and back again. It would be nice to get rid of the dead weight of the compressor as well, so I would remove it if I was pulling off the belt.

kgorman

Agreed.

AVoyvoda

The weight of all the aircon components (compressor, hoses etc) plus coolant is 47 lbs.

chris walrod

Way back in High School drivers ed., we were told A/C drags 4hp compared to 2hp to have the drivers window down. It was part of the fuel economy section of the class. FWIW..

jimq

Me not sweating profusly in our 95+ summer heat is worth 20 HP to me

kgorman

jimq, just go faster! hehe.