[Winch]

As usual I don't understand something. I'm putting V/A in my 68 non-air convertible. I need or replace the kick panels. Should I get them for a non-air car or for original factory air. And what are the vacuum actuators and covers for factory kick panels? Does any of that come into play with V/A?

[rherring]

If you replace them with no air car vents you would be able to open the vents. the vents can be blocked of with vintage air.The vents have nothing to do with the vintage air system

[trey68rs]

I am considering the same. I would like to install the screamin performance kick panels, but they are made only for non-ac cars. Is there a way to close off the actuator and still use the AC?

[KevinW]

The reason for the factory vac system in the kickpanels is to provide 'max' air. It would close off the cowl area and open up the kickpanel to draw in air from the inside. I dont know if VA has the option.

[Chuck]

Originally Posted by KevinW

The reason for the factory vac system in the kickpanels is to provide 'max' air. It would close off the cowl area and open up the kickpanel to draw in air from the inside. I dont know if VA has the option.

I think most aftermarket underdash hvac systems draw air from inside the car. A factory non-ac car kick panels have manually operated doors in them that open and close to allow fresh air from the cowl in and out of the car's interior. The ac will work best if it recirculates the air it is cooling, rather than trying to cool hot air pulled in from outside the car. The ac car kick panels have no vent on the d-side, and the p-side has a vacuum operated vent for the fresh air option. So, you do not want ac car kicks, because they are designed to work in sync with the factory hvac system. With VA, go with non ac car kicks with the vents, or get the aftermarket vents if you want speakers down there, and open the windows for fresh air.

[Wayne Hamlin]

I have VA in my 67 and am in the process of installing the kick panels. My car originally had factory air but I am using the non-air kick panels just so I can open them for fresh air as needed.

Unfortunately I failed to install the kick panels before putting in the VA unit. Having a heck of a time getting the passenger kick panel installed. Looks like I will be pulling the VA unit out, or at least loosening it to the point that I can move it a couple of inches.

Something for you to think about depending where you are with your build.

[KevinW]

Right, whenever you are installing anything in the interior, kickpanels go in first!