Plumbing

PLUMBING

DESCRIPTION
The A/C refrigerant lines and hoses are used to carry the refrigerant between the various A/C system components. The refrigerant lines and hoses for the R-134a system on this vehicle consist of a barrier-hose design with a nylon tube sandwiched between rubber layers. The nylon tube helps to contain the R-134a refrigerant, which has a smaller molecular structure than R-12 refrigerant. The ends of the refrigerant lines are made from lightweight aluminum or steel, and commonly use braze-less fittings.

Any kinks or sharp bends in the refrigerant lines and hoses will reduce the capacity of the entire A/C system and can reduce the flow of refrigerant in the system. The radius of all bends in the flexible hose refrigerant lines should be at least ten times the diameter of the hose and the refrigerant lines should be routed so they are at least 80 millimeters (3 inches) away from the exhaust manifold(s) and exhaust pipe(s).

OPERATION
High pressures are produced in the refrigerant system when the A/C compressor is operating. Extreme care must be exercised to make sure that each of the refrigerant system connections is pressure-tight and leak free. It is a good practice to inspect all flexible hose refrigerant lines at least once a year to make sure they are in good condition and properly routed.

Depending on vehicle, model and market application, refrigerant lines are connected to each other or other A/C system components with block-type or quick-connect type fittings. To ensure the integrity of the refrigerant system, flat gaskets and O-rings are used to seal the refrigerant system connections.

The refrigerant lines and hoses cannot be repaired and, if faulty or damaged, they must be replaced.