I don't know the answer to either question though I rather doubt that a 6-volt AC is made, new. I will tell you that I know a fellow with a '54 who has installed AC in his 6-volt car, though. So it can be done. He diddled something in the compressor, by stretching or compressing a particular coil spring, possibly in the solenoid, to make it more 6-volt-friendly. This was several yeas ago and as far as I know the system is still working just fine.

Also, I believe that they may have introduced AC into the old VW Beetles while they still used 6-volts, so if you happened to stumble on an old, derelict Beetle with air, you might be able to salvage that.

Rob-

Like most things, you can go crazy on cost, or do it all yourself and save quite a bit, or even skimp on materials and suffer with poor quality parts and pieces in the ensuing time you own the car. So, that said, here's a rough guideline, as I've been through this a couple different ways in a step-down.

12V conversion. If you buy a basic kit like Hwy. 51 fuse block and wire and make up all your own connections, it runs around $400 or so (or did a few years ago). After you throw in a new battery and connectors, any tools you might need and bulbs, it gets up around $600-$650. Or, you can go with a YNZ wiring harness, which is made just like the original harness, with original-style wire and connectors already attached. Fantastic directions are included. Simply route the wire and hook it up following the directions. I think a sedan runs in the $1100 range. The time you save installing it is well worth it if you count your time as money. If $$ is more precious than time, then ignore the last statement. After battery, bulbs, about $1250. That's two options with a couple different ranges.

As far as the AC goes, if you get the parts from a quality vendor like Vintage Aire, the AC parts and installation solely on your own would run around $1300-$1500. If you farm it out, of course the sky's the limit. I"ve known guys that spent 4K for AC that way. Biggest cost comes in engineering brackets and braces for the compressor and the sheer time of the labor involved in working under the dash, in front of the radiator, on the engine, through the firewall, etc.

That should give you some basic ideas and price ranges. It can be done cheaper, or more expensive, but what I gave you is some "middle-of-the-road" ideas.

Go here:

http://hudsonrestoration1948-54.com/

Look under "Adding AC", there's a great write up by a friend of mine, who retro-fitted AC to his '51 coupe. Gives you an idea of what is involved.

John and Russell,

Thank you for the tips and ideas!

I was thinking new over old, but if a good one comes along it might be an option.
That is good reading on the A/C and a lot of other topics.
Doesn't look all that hard to do...

I appreciate your time!

Rob