I've got an aftermarket a/c that blows ice cold (yea, it's been a hot one in the midwest). However there was never any provisions (such as an idle solenoid etc... when it was originally installed) for the idle to kick up when the compressor engages. Was there anything for stock a/c's in 64 and does any one know of any options for this application? BTW, I've got a bbs and an auto trans.
Thanks, Dale

There is an aftermarket solenoid that accomplishes what you want, but I don't know which carbs it fits.

I have no problem with idle speed on my '64 Valiant with Vintage Air. When the compressor engages, there is almost no change in the idle speed.

The factory and Mopar dealer A/Cs didn't get idle kicker solenoids until sometime in the mid-1970s. There was a throttle solenoid available for the BBS in its final two years of production ('73 and '74) but your '64 throttle lever doesn't have the tab for such a solenoid to strike. You could probably cobble-up something workable. The accepted procedure for dealing with idle/AC issues prior to the introduction of solenoids was twofold:

1) Set the idle speed with the A/C compressor engaged (or simply raise it by 150 rpm or so—same effect)

2) When stopped in traffic with A/C on, shift to Neutral (if stopped for prolonged periods, raise engine speed with foot on accelerator).

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Thanks for the responses. This is as a daily driver (believe it or not), I drive it about 30 miles a day. unforntunatly I live in a congested area, which means much of my driving is stop & go or slow & go. I have enhanced the idle to compensate, but the $ of gas by me has gone to $2.69 for reg. (bummer). It's not that big of a deal, I think my compressor may be getting tired because when it does kick on it pulls more than 150rpm's can handle. At any rate I've gotten the Dart running too damn good, I'm spoiled and just looking for perfection.

BTW, I've been a Service Director & or Service Manager for many different brands and companies for over 20 years. I've always had a sparkling new demo I.E. - Landcruisers, Lexus', etc... I've recently taken over an independent chain (with no demo). While there is something to be said for driving a $60,000 + car (especially when I'm not paying the monthly note, whew) I really prefer driving the 64 Dart, except in the winter which I'll take out the 4x4 Ram Charger (which is not to shabby for the snow we get).
So after all that, Dan I so much agree with a prior statement regarding the pretentious, pompous, superficial, materialistic, professionals that crowd and clutter our roads today. Long live the classics (especially Mother Mopar)!