'78 Avanti air conditioning switch

[Dan S]

The switch for the AC does not seem to shut on and off.  Should there be a click when the switch is turned to the off position.  The AC always seems to be running.  Can anyone help?  Are new AC switches available?  Thanks

[Jim78]

The fan switch has a definite click to OFF when rotated counterclockwise.  When the switch is rotated clockwise, there should be a definite click, and the fan should come on at its highest speed.  Rotating it further, the fan speed decreases.   This switch must be on in order for the compressor clutch to operate.  That said, when the fan switch is on, the compresssor clutch is then controlled by the thermal switch (thermostat).   The fan switch should be available, or at least a generic substitute.  It is just a rheostat with an OFF position, like an old radio volume control.  You would need to get one with the same resistance, and an equal or greater wattage rating.

[Avanti83]

As with most things Avanti, it's probably borrowed from another manufacture's parts book so there may be another source but when looking for parts for these vehicles, the go-to source is Dan Booth at Nostalgic Motors in Wixom, Mi. He bought out the old Avanti Motors parts stock. You could call him as he may have both NOS and used parts. Never inexpensive but way cheaper than other high end classics.

[Gunslinger]

Be aware that some NOS parts may malfunction after being stored for many, many years.  The storage conditions may not have been optimal and gaskets can deteriorate, electrical contacts corrode, etc.  I'm not saying it's the norm, but it can and has happened.  

[Dan S]

Thanks for the advice, I appreciate the help.