"So, for you builders who were like me, I encourage you to take a page
from my retrospective lesson book and consider installing the A/C
while it's easier, while the engine and airframe are not finished"

Jeff,

I agree 100%!  The A/C system we installed has been a necessity - not a luxury.  When we were building, Janie (better half) insisted on installing A/C and now I am glad she was so insistent!  Our Virginia weather this time of the year (90 degrees - 90% humidity) makes it mandatory.  I promise anyone that if they do install the A/C, they won't be sorry.  The only thing I would suggest is to be frugal with costs when selecting a system.  The systems out there on the market are pretty much street rod systems and they don't cost $5-8K!  A little bit of research will save money for other "goodies".

Ed Smith
N9JE
Chesapeake, VA