Classic Auto Air update 3/28/2024

So over the winter I completely reworked the pulleys and belts for my "Perfect Fit Kit" from Classic Auto Air. The kit as provided would not accommodate twin belts for the compressor and the alternator - even though the three pulleys had dual grooves for that use, they were 1 groove off so you could only use 1 belt. Damned thing squealed like a pig every time the compressor engaged. Since the compressor couldn't be moved back to align (against the thermostat housing), I had to move the alternator forward and find a new crank pulley with paired grooves in the right place. That moved the outer AC belt so that it interfered with the belt that runs the water pump and PS pump - so I had to space the power steering pump forward and find a fan pulley that was shallower to move the belt without moving the fan forward.

Last week I took the car to Carlisle and back with a side trip to visit friends from its East Coast storage spot, so about 300 miles round trip with 85 to 95 degree temps outside and nary a belt slip and a nice cool ride!!! This confirms to me that this system is basically well designed, but the attention to installation detail is just awful. Nothing a good hot rodder couldn't fix, but not a bolt on and go kit like they claim.

We'll pick the car up again in PA in early August and go to Moparfest in Ontario, and then all of RT66 and up the Pacific Coast Highway to Home to WA State - another 7500 mile road trip over 6 weeks.