Note: This section applies to the JDM AE86 models only. The AC for the export markets were slightly different.
My AE86 GT APEX originally came with AC, but it has been removed over the life of the car. I want to install the original AC, so I am collecting all information here. This information may be erroneous or incomplete – if you have corrected information, please drop me an email – thanks!
AC Manufacturers
The JDM AE86 came with two different AC suppliers: DENSO and SANDEN. Most likely, DENSO ACs came from factory, while the SANDEN ones were aftermarket. Both of these ACs are completely different, and parts are not interchangeable.
The SANDEN AC is poorly documented and parts are hard to get. There is no way to source new spares forthe SANDEN AC, so it is easiest to work with the DENSO AC parts.
The compressors are easily distinguishable: The DENSO type is using long screws that go through the compressor housing, the SANDEN compressor has small mounting tabs (like ears). Both use different mounting brackets on the block.
The DENSO AC also had the option of an automatic air conditioner, which has again a lot of different parts.
Compressor
The AE86 came with at least six different compressors: with power steering and without, zenki and kouki, and compressors made by SANDEN and DENSO.
| Manufacturer | OEM Part Number | Manufacturer Part Number | W/ Power Steering | W/Charge Valve | W/Lock Sensor | Period | Pictures |
| DENSO | 88320-12270 | 047200-3652 047200-3651 | Yes | Yes | Zenki | ||
| DENSO | No | Yes | Zenki | ||||
| DENSO | 88320-12400 | 047200-6540 | Yes | No | Kouki | ||
| DENSO | 047200-6690 (?) 047200-6491 (?) | No | No | Kouki | |||
| SANDEN | SD-507 1423012180 | No, perhaps there are also variants for AC models | |||||
Pictures
Block Mounting Bracket
I am aware of at least three different AC compressor engine block mounting brackets:
- DENSO with power steering (smaller)
- DENSO without power steering (comes with a belt tensioner)
- SANDEN compressor mounting bracket without power steering, cast number 51201-45210
AC Amplifier
Another difference between the power-steering and manual steering variants is the AC amplifier, a small piece of electronics mounted next to the evaporator. There are two mounting positions:
- For models without power steering, the amplifier PCB is mounted in a “pocket” on the evaporator case.
- For models with power steering, the amplifier is placed in a separate plastic case, and mounted underneath the evaporator housing.
| OEM Part Number | Denso Part Number | PCB Part Number | W/Power Steering | Comes with Case | Zenki/Kouki | Harness with Relay | Remark |
| ? | 077100-1330 | <– | No | No | Zenki | No | |
| 88650-12231 (?) | 077100-1290 | 077151-0391 | Yes (?) | Yes | Kouki (?) | Yes | |
| 88650-12361 | 077100-2500 | Yes | Yes | Kouki | From 1986 onwards | ||
| 077300-0652 | Yes | For Automatic AC (AAC). Both amplifiers are needed. | |||||
| 077351-0210 | For Automatic AC (AAC). Both amplifiers are needed. |
Relay / No Relay
- The harness of the AC inside the car sometimes comes with a relay, sometimes it doesn’t. I don’t know why.
Evaporator
Condenser
Automatic Air Conditioner
In Japan, there was an automatic air conditioner option, that allowed cabin temperature regulation using a set temperature. This option was only available using DENSO components.
The main differences are:
- Different faceplate for the heater controls.
- Different mechanics for the heater controls (the heater adjustment is no longer a wire, but works electronically).
- Electronically controlled hot/cold coolant valve regulating water flow to the heater core (the valve in the engine bay).
- Two AC amplifier boards (both locations are used; the one in the evaporator housing, and the second location underneath the evaporator housing).
- Several vacuum and electric pipes in the engine room next to the coolant valve (I don’t know any details yet).
- Temperature sensor on top of the dashboard, slightly in the middle above the instrument cluster.
Parts for the automatic AC are hard to find and new replacement parts are not available.
USDM AC
Contrary to incorrect information commonly found in old forum posts, AC for US cars was available from factory using DENSO components. I know this, because my USDM AE86 came with a factory AC.
While the compressor looks very similar to the Japan models, the piping from the compressor to the condenser and evaporator are different.
Fluids and Quantities
Compressor oil for 134a: 100ml (JDM model)
AC gas: 650-750g
Hi Clemens,
I’m happy to see you have this blog and there is some information I’m trying to find with regards to the automatic air conditioner.
My JDM AE86 has a manual air conditioner, and I’m toying with the thought of converting it to automatic. It was done at the dealerships, so how tough can it be? (very tough if you don’t have all the information)
What I have been able to find so far is that it requires three parts:
1. Automatic aircon switch that has a resistive switch to set the temperature (and thus electronically instead of a cable) and a switch that has the “auto” fan speed.
2. A servo to control the air speed
3. A temperature sensor
4. A wiring loom for the automatic air conditioner
Parts for 1 and 2 are not that difficult to find on the auctions, but I haven’t been able to find a part number for 3. There is someone selling 3 on Yahoo Auctions, though. And 4 is nearly impossible to find.
I did find a partnumber for the conversion kit that dealers installed (88860-12021) but it isn’t that clear what the kit will entail as it also includes a lot of vacuum lines and hoses, but not the servo. You can find the diagram here:
https://jp-carparts.com/toyota/partlist.php?maker=toyota&type=162150&cartype=11&fig=8711
I’m hoping you have a bit more information about this than I do.
You also need the electronically controlled water valve in the engine bay, the one that regulates water flow to the heater core. On the model with automatic AC, this one is electric and has a lot of wires and hoses going to it.
You also need both AC ECUs (they are different to the ones of the manual AC). You should be able to get them second hand off yahoo auctions.
A lof of the automatic AC parts are hard to find and new parts are mostly out of stock, so here in Japan, many people actually convert to the manual AC.
Let me know if this helps, I will add the information I have to the knowledge base above. So far, I wasn’t expecting anyone to be crazy enough trying to upgrade to automatic AC.