C-GT A/C quest (and Bilstein report)

["Ken Keith" <keith@specialdevices.com>]

Hi,

I recently tested (tried out) my A/C in my Coupe, since summer is coming 
up.  It doesn't work.

I looked at the compressor to see if it (the center part) turned when the 
switch was turned on.  It wasn't, and my first instinct was that the A/C 
compressor clutch was bad and I should ask the list how to test it.

Then I read in the Bently about the low pressure switch preventing the 
clutch from activating if the system pressure is too low.

So, I guess my next step is to just take it in to an A/C shop and have it 
looked at.  I fear that if it's a leak in the system that it will be 
costly and cumbersome to find and fix.  I only have about a month before 
I come to know a new meaning of the word "hot".  <tick, tock>

On another topic, is there a way to eliminate the master cylinder as the 
cause of my hard break pedal?  Has anyone replaced their power booster on 
their vacuum-operated brake system?  Is it a job I should try to do 
myself, or should I have it done?

Oh yeah, I installed those Bilstein's this weekend.  Can you say "firm"?  
These things are downright hard!  I'm still waiting for them to "break 
in", but they are firm as can be.  I like the ride at speed, nice and 
stable, but around town these things rival a lowered mini-truck on 
firmness.  Not bouncy, mind you, just really firm.

I'm running the ABT Sportsline springs with them, which of themselves 
weren't firm before I added these struts.

I suppose these "Sport" model struts might be firmer than the regular "HD" 
model they offer, in addition to them having a shorter shaft.

I like my car to be "tight", but I believe I've approached the upper limit 
of my preference.

Of course the 40 series tires and urethane (delrin?) A-arm bushings 
probably don't help any.

Take care,

Ken