My '62 came with an A/C unit. It uses a Sanden compressor that has been converted to R134, is it? Today, as I washed the engine I noticed that one of the ears on the A/C compressor has cracked in 1/2. The case is aluminum and I'm sure can be mended. The issue is whether or not it's worth the trouble. There are more efficient units available, the car really struggles with this one even though the engine is a .030 overbore B20. Secondly the hoses are all attached with regular hose clamps, so some minor leaking occurs too. When I looked into just swapping the compressor I discovered that there is no way to use the old components with a new compressor due to the fittings. That is hoses with clamps vs. real hose fittings. The whole system needs to be reworked. Seems straight forward except that I'd have to some how adapt, I guess by soldering, new 134 fittings to the condensor's intake and exit tubes.

Has anyone done this? Are appropriate fittings available and is it just a matter of some soldering to make a connection? Any suggestions on which compressor to choose?