I noticed this on my 6 and now on my Z28, if im crusing along and turn on the A/C it really feels like it takes power away. Is this a normal thing with the F-bodies?

 

A/C uses a mechanical compressor... takes power to turn it. Normal on all cars when just "cruising" at part thottle. I never found it intrusive on my LT1.

 

It's normal for any car with A/C. When the compressor kicks in, there is a huge drag on the system. I've heard about 20 hp.

 

Yep, happens with any car, not much you can do about it, except use the T-Tops if you've got 'em

 

It does take away power when you have it on but i think on every car when you go WOT with the a/c on the compressor kicks off until you let off the gas so when cars need all the oomph they can get the a/c kicks off to ensure the most power out of it! so if your wanting the power just give it all the gas!

 

Oh yeah. You notice it a lot with a M6. It really drags the rpm down quick between shifts from the extra resistance on the motor. I hardly use my A/C in the summer because I hate the way it makes the car perform.

Dan

 

I heard it could only rob you about 8hp. I always use my A/C but I turn it off if i'm having some fun.

 

I don't know haw much HP it robs, but I can tell ya that it really sucks in the "seat of the pants" feel. It's a definate power robber. I could feel the increase that my K&N CAI gave me, and that's about 8 - 10 HP. The A/C feels like it's taking away much more than that. Does that make sense. It feels like 15 HP at least.

Dan

 

i dont notice that much of a difference on my car. It just revs up a LITTLE slower.

 

The A/C on our cars is so inefficient. It robs so much power and you feel that ****.

 

Definitely notice it on my Bronco 351, but can't say that I notice it on my Lt1. I'm running the 2-pully March UDs. Don't know if that has anything to do with it.

I believe that it may be true that the AC shuts off at WOT, but have no evidence supporting that belief. JMHO

 

I agree!!! I never use the AC in my car (atleast when its driveable ) I hate feeling the powerloss! As far as the AC cuttin off at WOT, im not sure on our cars but i gave a '02 Elantra (sp?) full pedal (w/ the AC on) and it stayed on the whole time! So im not sure if only GMs do that or what....

 

I suppose one could watch the compressor to see if it was engaged when someone runs it up to WOT.

Just be sure you're not standing it front of it when you do it.