Reusing old fittings

wolfsburged on Mon May 09, 2011 10:36 PM

Year: 1984
Make: Volkswagen
Model: Jetta
Engine Size: 1.6 TD
Refrigerant Type: R134a

I have a '84 VW Jetta I'm converting the AC to R134a. Old system was completely dead.

I have bought new #8 and #12 barrier hose and ferrules from AC Kits here. I have cut off the hose on the old lines and intend to reuse the old ends. I have access to a Mastercool 71550 crimper tool.

Here are two representative ends that I have of #8 and #12 fitment:

The smaller one has three ridges that are slightly recessed. I'm assuming this is a leftover from a barb fitting? The larger diameter tube is completely smooth.

Question: Can I just crimp new lines onto these ends? Do I need to worry about the recessed grooves on the smaller line leaking if properly crimped? Should there be any kind of bead on these for use with the barrier hose?

Also any tips on bending 5/8" OD hard tubing lines? I need to alter one, but don't want to collapse it as its bent. I have access at work to tube benders up to 1/2" but no larger.

Thanks,
Bill in Raleigh NC

TRB on Mon May 09, 2011 11:33 PM

We would weld on some new barbed ends. I don't think you will have good results just crimping hose on those ends.

35-20854

35-20856

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When considering your next auto A/C purchase, please consider the site that supports you: ACkits.com
Contact: ACKits.com

Edited: Mon May 09, 2011 at 11:33 PM by TRB

NickD on Tue May 10, 2011 6:05 AM

See a lot of stuff much newer than that in a lot worse shape. Probably why a bunch of people when going into a new car show room see pretty colors and flashing lights. While I just see a big pile of crap.

Since you have those tubes cleaned and stripped, might be able to get a nickel for them at a recycling place.

wolfsburged on Tue May 10, 2011 7:48 AM

Quote
Originally posted by: TRB
We would weld on some new barbed ends. I don't think you will have good results just crimping hose on those ends.

35-20854

35-20856

Any reason to use the weld on barbed fitting versus weld on beadlock fitting? I thought barbed fittings were less desirable due to potential for leakage?

Cussboy on Tue May 10, 2011 9:07 AM

I had my '88 hose repaired about 5 years ago due to a leaky crimp, and was told by repairer (not AMA in this instance) that to ensure a leakproof fit that he'd have to weld on hose barb. He said that the original style used special crimps and that just crimping AC hose to that wouldn't likely be successful. It's still leak free.

So the two "stories" do match. I recommend to do it right, do it once.

TRB on Tue May 10, 2011 9:32 AM

Weld on bead-lock is also an option.

-------------------------

When considering your next auto A/C purchase, please consider the site that supports you: ACkits.com
Contact: ACKits.com

wolfsburged on Wed May 11, 2011 10:53 PM

Could I use something like this tubing beader tool to add a bead to my 5/8" lines to use with the beadlock crimper tool and barrier hose I have?

http://www.jegs.com/i/JEGS-Performance-Products/555/80083/10002/-1?parentProductId=1423179