Technical AC lines

Normal #10 AC hose is 1/2 inch ID and about 1 inch OD. There is another "barrier hose" which is 1/2 ID and only about 3/4 OD. The small OD stuff would fit under the dash better. Is it as good and where is the best source?
Thanks
Pat

 

A/C pressure can get pretty high not sure I would try anything but A/C hose.

 

There is fairly new barrier hose available that is smaller OD, made for modern refrigerants. I used it on a project a couple years ago. I Don't know the best source, but a company called CSTK in Kansas City, KS handles it. I work for a sister company but don't get any better pricing. It comes with some neat clamps, you have to buy the hand held pliers to crimp it, but worked great for me. It's quality stuff. Almost 40 years in off road ac experience here, but for the last 25 we only do locomotive HVAC, no barrier hoses or flex hoses allowed. Where ya can, use the aluminium tubing from vintage air.

 

Its called reduced barrier hose. It is more flexible and works well for under dash applications. It has its own fittings and beadlock dies, though. It is actually priced comparably to standard barrier hose.

 

Being a suction hose, have you thought about using hard line in this area with o-ring ends, aluminum or SS? Not sure how you run the lines through the firewall however either can be bent and fit into tighter areas than larger OD flexible hose.

 

Check Vintage Air. That have new smaller hose and crimping is done with pliers. Hose is much more pliable and crimp bands look very clean.

Sent from my XT1585 using The H.A.M.B. mobile app

 

Vintage Air called EZ clip

Sent from my XT1585 using The H.A.M.B. mobile app

 

Thank you all . I'll be talking to CSTK first as its local. My ace hydraulic shop only has the big stuff. Is that golden flathead in a Volvo?

 

I like hard lines in tight places, with tight bends. You can buy aluminum lines with pre-formed ends. You can also get ends with swages , and lo-temp aluminum solder to put them together.

 

I went to CSTK and they were very helpful. The hose is great. They hurt my feelings charging big for the tile nippers but now I will be able to do all my own hoses. And I can get a fitting quick. It may be next winter before I get the compressor mounted. Can I just cap my bulkhead or do I need a charge of nitrogen or in my evaporator?
Thanks
Pat

 

If it’s empty now, I’d just cap it. You’ll have to vac it down before charging it.


Sent from my iPad using H.A.M.B.

 

Thanks David. That's what Vintage Air said too. I got some special assembly oil fore the EZ clip o rings.
Pat