Sure, but that's a fairly low amp draw. Batteries in that size class typically offer about 2/3rds the ah (~16) rating of a full size car battery and about half the reserve capacity (~30m). Leaving your headlights on for an hour would kill the battery. If that's not a problem for you then save some weight - if it's a point of concern then maybe skip that upgrade. ;) Like I said, I run these small batteries in a couple cars and they work fine for me - but this is not an example of a free lunch. You are definitely giving up a margin of error with these batteries.
there's a real simple solution to that problem... don't leave your headlights on....
Anyone know the BTU/CFM of the Fiero A/C? Trying to figure what a electric replacement would work.
I'm not sure what the factory BTU output is, but it's mostly irrelevant when trying to find a replacement system. Instead, the required BTU value should be calculated from the air volume of the cabin. Given how small it is, you can get away with fairly low BTU output of the system. Anything over 1500 BTU should be more than sufficient to cool the Fiero. Given you live in Las Vegas though, you probably want to be somewhere in the 3500-6000 BTU range. The one 12V compressor I linked to on the ReVolt site, is just shy of 6000 BTU. It is over $500 and out of stock, though.
the "Sierra" doesn't list their country of origin, so I think it's fair to assume it's not made in USA, and probably china. there's more specs on their website:
Originally posted by ericjon262: the "Sierra" doesn't list their country of origin, so I think it's fair to assume it's not made in USA, and probably china. there's more specs on their website:
They have plenty of US production facilities, having been around for 80 years. They have much better quality assurance than many of the unknown origin Chinese parts too. Even if some of the components or compressors do get made in China, I think it's safe to assume the higher quality standards will stay in place, as they do for brands like AC Delco, Timken, etc…
The Rigid Auto compressors though, I have no idea what level of standards they might adhere to (or claim to adhere to but not actually do so).
[This message has been edited by dobey (edited 12-27-2014).]
They have plenty of US production facilities, having been around for 80 years. They have much better quality assurance than many of the unknown origin Chinese parts too. Even if some of the components or compressors do get made in China, I think it's safe to assume the higher quality standards will stay in place, as they do for brands like AC Delco, Timken, etc…
The Rigid Auto compressors though, I have no idea what level of standards they might adhere to (or claim to adhere to but not actually do so).
I noticed the Tecumseh logo on one of their catalogs and was surprised, I didn't know they were still around. at this point, I would only consider the Masterflux, as it's only $100-150 more, and has a known brand attached to it.
Originally posted by ericjon262: I noticed the Tecumseh logo on one of their catalogs and was surprised, I didn't know they were still around. at this point, I would only consider the Masterflux, as it's only $100-150 more, and has a known brand attached to it.
Looking at the Wikipedia entry for Tecumseh, it didn't seem like they actually have any plants in China either, only distributors there. The Masterflux compressors are probably built in either the US or Mexico, as a best guess based on where they seem to have plants.
Looking at the Wikipedia entry for Tecumseh, it didn't seem like they actually have any plants in China either, only distributors there. The Masterflux compressors are probably built in either the US or Mexico, as a best guess based on where they seem to have plants.
I did an archive search and found that the entire ac system including hoses, compressor and condenser only weighs about 50 lbs. I was thinking of pulling mine to save weight but it doesn't seem worth it on a street car.
Originally posted by dobey:Or for $50 install a DEI 545T and never worry about it again, as it can automatically turn headlights on, and turn them off with a delay.
Although I use numerous DEI products on various cars, I'm not sure I trust them any more than my memory. Definitely all lowest bidder and not built to last stuff. Which isn't to say there are options for better made stuff, realty - only that their stuff isn't exactly "OEM grade."
I did an archive search and found that the entire ac system including hoses, compressor and condenser only weighs about 50 lbs. I was thinking of pulling mine to save weight but it doesn't seem worth it on a street car.
yes, but it's not necessarily just the weight, but the weight distribution. if you can mount the whole 50 pounds int he frunk, it'll bring you closer to 50/50.
-Sheetmetal dash and autometer Ultra-Lite gauges. -Drill lightning holes in center console skeleton support (The portion of steel just above the gas tank hump that runs front to back)
Race weight thin fiberglass hood, fenders, door panels, decklid, facias, etc ...seem a wise way. They dont serve a safety purpose it seems anyway. Though they'll take skill to create something nice, and someone leaning on them could damage them. The decklid seems it would be easiest to keep safe from someone damaging it, use a prop rod instead of torsion springs.
[This message has been edited by 2.5 (edited 12-30-2014).]
Which isn't to say there are options for better made stuff, realty - only that their stuff isn't exactly "OEM grade." 
