Early AC Lines

[Fr. Buick]

I am slowly putting together a factory AC system on a '54 Super hardtop. So far all my hard parts, even the compressor, are tight and working.

The copper hard lines have about nine inches of flex hose near the compressor, with a copper mesh around them, and mine are shot.

Has anybody had luck in replacing that flex hose? Who, what, how?

I want to keep it as stock-looking as possible, but don't want to loose any of my R-12 in the process.

Any help is appreciated.

[old-tank]

2 Bronze Vibration Eliminator Pipes - 1" HVAC - NEW - FREE SHIPPING | eBay

This similar to what you need...and some new search terms.

Willie

[Paul Falabella]

So these hoses are braided rubber lines,which if original, are likely shot? And don't bother adding liquid gold(R12) till they are replaced? Is that what I am reading?

[Fr. Buick]

Thanks a million, Willie, you just saved me a tone of money!!! I had no idea the stuff would be so easily gotten. They look like a perfect replacement. Thank you. I figured my only option was to pay a certain vintage AC shop to do a replacement. Now I am off and running!

Yes, Paul, the old ones are fried. And even if they are holding pressure now, add a hundred PSI, plus heat and engine vibration and see what soon may follow... Best to start with new rubber, especially with the price of R-12.

Once again, THANKS, WILLIE!!!

[old-tank]

Most of the the vibration eliminators are not rubber, rather corrugated brass with braided covering. They do fatigue with age and use, so replace. Most will not be the exact length, but if too short, some tubing can be added to the remaining original lines.

Willie