A/C lines crimp tool

**stevenx40** · 05-16-03, 06:51 PM

I have just finished ordering my A/c lines and fittings from Vintage Air to complete my system. I will be using the beadlock fittings. I have twelve crimps that need to be made and the tool they sell cost over $450. Does anybody have any suggestions for alternatives or a tool they might be willing to rent. Steve

Bill Bayard · 05-16-03, 07:23 PM

Steven,

As you stated, automotive A/C line crimps require a special crimping tool($400+). HVAC crimps will NOT work on them.
I found an automotive A/C specialist, who crimped mine for a pretty reasonable price.
$150, including hooking up the lines with the proper O-rings, pressure testing the system with nitrogen, vacuuming the system, charging with R134, and a 1 yr leak guarantee. I had to drive my car 50 miles to his shop, in 80 degree heat with no A/C, but it was definitely worth the ride. The cockpit of my car was like a walk-in freezer on the way home!
Make a few phone calls, and you should be able to find someone capable of doing the work locally. Get a guarantee!
Like you, I couldn't bring myself to buy a $400 tool for a one time job! With my luck,
if I had made the crimps, they would have leaked!

Bill

[ May 16, 2003: Message edited by: Bill Bayard ]

Peter D · 05-21-03, 04:00 AM

Steve, I had the same problem but found a local "mobile auto a/c" service mechanic. He had the crimping tool, a myriad of fittings, hoses, electrical connectors, etc - all in the van.

He has made 3 visits so far, & all hoses except the compressor are installed, crimped & sealed. The next visit should be the last - finish off the compressor hoses, install all o-rings, vacuum & charge.

This mobile approach might be the way to go - you can do it in stages, & if you have a serpentine belt set-up, you dont have to worry about how to get the car to the mechanic without running an un-gassed compressor.

Peter D. [img]images/icons/smile.gif[/img]

Scott · 05-21-03, 08:11 AM

Pete,
Regardless of whether you run a serpentine or normal vee belt set up, the compressor should not run due to the low pressure switch cut out that should be plumbed/wired into the system even if a/c switch is turned on.
The cut out kills the power to the electro-magnetic clutch so compressor pulley just free wheels on shaft just as if working normanally when compressor cycles off when evaporator gets down to temperature.
Scott.