Retrofitting? I would not recommend it. If anyone would even take on the
job, the price tag would be impressive. IF you can get them, $20k+ using
new parts. Even more if you buy used ones and then replace most of them
with new ones because they are... well...junk!. Then, you would have to
get all the paperwork approved for this MAJOR undertaking.

There are, however, a surprising number of Piper airplanes that came
with factory A/C. Unfortunately, these are R-12 systems that are usually
non-functioning by now. Nobody spent the money it took to keep them
alive. Finding one with factory air and getting it functional, while not
cheap, would be a fraction of the cost of trying to install it on a
non-A/C plane.

Be prepared for constant problems with alternator belts breaking unless
the alternator pulley, idler pulley, and bulkhead pulleys are NEW. Then,
figure on replacing the belt every 200 hours or so. Also figure on
replacing the loooong hoses that carry the refrigerant. A compressor
overhaul and new dryer are usually on the ticket too.

To make room for the compressor belt, Piper used a 3/8" wide alternator
belt. The thing is made of a very stiff compound and needs to be
tightened to 70 lbs. on perfectly aligned, NEW pulleys to keep them from
slipping and/or rolling and/or breaking. After 15 minutes of ground
running a new belt, you need to retension the belt back up to 70 lbs.
Many have bemoaned their troubles with these belts (try a Google
search). Don't get all these things right and they will break VERY
often. I had a couple that lasted less than 2 hours when my alternator
pulley was just slightly worn. The stiff belt compound stretched that
tight wears out the pulleys in about 1000 hours.

A/C will also cost you 68lbs. of useful load. These systems are not very
reliable or practical in Pipers. But, Pipers seem to be the only single
engined piston airplanes A/C was installed in with any frequency. A/C
in a light piston airplane is not like A/C in an auto. They are
uncommon, heavy (for an airplane), unreliable, and actually make a plane
worth LESS to many people.

Most folks just put up with the taxi and climb being uncomfortable until
cooler air is reached at altitude.

Good Luck,
Mike

John Pelchat wrote:
Does anyone have information regarding the feasibility of retrofitting
air-conditioning into a Piper Cherokee, possibly a 6/260? I live in
the southeast and would be flying toward Florida where heat and
humidity are a real challenge much of the year. A/C is one of things
that my wife would consider a must in any aircraft we were to
purchase.

And as long we are talking about Sixes, I would appreciate any
opinions regarding the pros and cons of the club seating that is
available in some planes.

Thanks in advance for any help.


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