[C320-list] Air Conditioning

[Warren Updike]

Kirk, we are at Md Marina on Middle R.  This winter two of us 320 owners
installed AC. We worked together on every aspect of it. Now that the season
is in full swing, we've had opportunity to use both cooling and heat; and,
can report that we are very satisfied with the result.

After much study, research, and consultation with others we decided on a
Cruiseair 12K unit installed in the port locker. We bought the unit from
Annapolis Cruiseair and were very happy with their support. I strongly
recommend you talk to them.

This installation afforded us the least effort installation with good
results. The Cruiseair unit is reported to produce a true 12k output. With
only a short duct to the galley and return grill in the aft cabin, it
required no other ducts and no cabinetry work.  The removable panels in the
v-berth bulkhead allow free flow of conditioned air through the v-berth.
After seeing a few other AC installations in the port locker, I can say with
confidence we have the cleanest looking installation of the bunch.  

Our overriding objective were: to maximize the space left in the port
locker; and, to minimize the loss of space in the bread box.  We needed to
reduce the height of the bread box by only 2 inches and the unit fits
entirely under the bread box up against the galley bulkhead. We constructed
a plywood enclosure around the unit which is necessary to enclose it. To top
it off, I installed a shelf in the locker that aligns horizontally with the
top of the AC enclosure.  

I have lots of pictures and considerations we made in doing the project.  I
haven't taken the time as yet to do an article for the web site; but, I'm
happy to share both with you or anyone.  Since we are only 3 hours away
across the Bay, you are welcome to come here or meet us on the bay for more
on the story.

Warren & Pattie Updike
1994 C320 #62 "Warr De Mar"

-----Original Message-----
From: Kirk Mueller [mailto:kirkm753 at gmail.com] 
Sent: Wednesday, June 05, 2013 11:44 AM
To: C320-list at catalina320.com
Subject: [C320-list] Air Conditioning

Hi All,

Has anyone recently installed A/C in their boat.  If so, what type and size?
Where did they put the unit, the supply ducts and the return?

Thanks,

Kirk Mueller
Second Chance #361
Rock Hall, MD