Thread: Rooftop Aircon for Fender

Originally Posted by taff

...they're not cheap to buy but i'm hoping that it'll be more than worth it. the 2 units on the right i intend to mount up top and i'm going to strip down the box on the right and either put it into the bulkhead and make my own fascia or put it in the overhead consloe that i'm making.

That would solve some issues I have. I'll be very interested in how it works out.

I don't think these units would be too cheap, but I've been told Webasto is a quality product.

Webasto Australia Webasto Compact 5 Air Conditioner

http://www.webasto.com.au/am/graphics/PS_CC_5_8.pdf

check out the truck mags they have heaps of different cab aircons for around $500

A mate who's Defender is non air con was advised to go this route by the people who own the rights to the original Australian AMC design!

However, I'd advise not to fit it direct to the roof panel being aluminium as it simply wouldn't support the weight long term and would lead to stress cracking.

A whole separate frame system to support it needs to be developed and a roof rack suitably modified leands itself to that. However, there again, it cant be solidly mounted between the rack and the roof, to allow for movement.

So many issues to overcome, which is why it's not seen around on top of Defenders.

Originally Posted by idletorque

A mate who's Defender is non air con was advised to go this route by the people who own the rights to the original Australian AMC design!

However, I'd advise not to fit it direct to the roof panel being aluminium as it simply wouldn't support the weight long term and would lead to stress cracking.

A whole separate frame system to support it needs to be developed and a roof rack suitably modified leands itself to that. However, there again, it cant be solidly mounted between the rack and the roof, to allow for movement.

So many issues to overcome, which is why it's not seen around on top of Defenders.

Easy actually... Built the frame under the roof to the sides of the framework and then bolt the unit through the lot!

I have looked into this also, and am still planning to get a "Mini Van" unit and put it in the back of the cabin above the rear door, or just behind the cargo barrier. The unit would be around $500 - $600 mark. Then plumb it into my existing compressor. Have not persued it, as I have been renovating the house, and have no disposable funds at the moment. Let us know how you go.

Cheers,
Ken

Seems this is a popular problem

yes you started something here