Frequently Asked Questions About Kenworth W900A AC Condensers

Will these AC condensers fit my specific year Kenworth W900A, and are there differences between model years?

Our AC condensers are designed to fit Kenworth W900A models from 1961 through 1990. However, there are slight variations in mounting brackets and inlet/outlet configurations between early models (1961-1975) and later models (1976-1990). When ordering, please have your VIN ready or know your exact model year. The main differences involve the refrigerant type - earlier models used R12 while later models may have been converted to R134a. We stock condensers compatible with both systems.

What are the most common installation challenges, and what tools will I need?

The most frequent installation challenge is accessing the mounting bolts behind the grille, which typically requires removing the grille assembly first. You'll need a basic socket set (10mm-19mm), refrigerant recovery equipment, and new O-rings for the fittings. Many customers report spending 2-3 hours on installation. The trickiest part is usually aligning the condenser with existing brackets while maintaining proper clearance from the radiator. We recommend having at least 3/4 inch spacing between the condenser and radiator for optimal airflow.

Are these condensers made from aluminum or copper/brass, and which is better for my truck?

We carry both aluminum and copper/brass condensers. Aluminum condensers are lighter (typically 8-10 lbs vs 15-18 lbs for copper/brass) and offer better cooling efficiency with modern parallel flow designs. Copper/brass units are more traditional and some drivers prefer them for their durability and easier field repairs. For trucks running in extremely dusty conditions or with frequent stop-and-go driving, aluminum tends to perform better. However, if you're maintaining originality or prefer the traditional look, copper/brass matches the period-correct appearance.

What size condenser do I need, and how do I measure for proper fitment?

Standard Kenworth W900A condensers typically measure 20" x 16" or 24" x 18", depending on your original equipment. To determine the correct size, measure your existing condenser core (not including the tanks) width and height. Also check the inlet and outlet fitting sizes - most use #8 and #10 fittings, but some aftermarket systems may vary. If you're upgrading from R12 to R134a, we recommend going with the larger size for improved cooling capacity, as R134a typically requires about 10-15% more condenser capacity.

How can I tell if my AC condenser is failing, and should I replace other components at the same time?

Common signs of condenser failure include warm air from vents even when AC is on, visible refrigerant leaks (oily residue on condenser fins), bent or damaged fins blocking more than 20% of the surface area, or corrosion at the inlet/outlet connections. When replacing the condenser, we strongly recommend also replacing the receiver/dryer and expansion valve, as debris from a failed condenser can contaminate these components. Plan on spending an additional $75-150 for these parts, but it will save you from comeback issues and ensure optimal system performance.