I hope you read the long post on "AC options" in the slant forum. The Volare brackets will just barely clear the battery (~1/2") in an early A, so could puncture the side if the engine shakes. . . . . Re hoses, you can re-rubber them yourself.
I saw that post. Awhile ago I mocked up the 79/80 Volare/Aspen brackets and my brand new Sanden cmpressor on a slant that was on the stand with several different manifolds and the brackets appeared to have plenty of room. Once everything is installed in the engine compartment we'll see where everything lies. Moving the battery to the rear is not an option in the wagon (at least for me). A friend and I have already sent our early hoses to Classic Air to have them done. They will also restore the fittings so for the price, I can't complain. I will have to consider doing them myself as I plan on adding AC to the 47 Dodge rod I will be doing.