Ac Hoses

[ccracin]

I've been doing a lot of searching and reading, and really have made no decisions. What do you guys recommend for A/C hoses. You've got the OEM type black hose with crimp ends and there is the Aeroquip Braided SS with reusable ends. Are there any other recommended options? I don't really want the braided SS, but like the ability to make the hoses exactly the way I want them in the garage with the ability to adjust clocking etc. The OEM hose with crimp on fittings is tried and true, but you need to be on target first time with fitting clocking and length. Plus, it's just black rubber hose. Most of the visible hoses on the truck will most likely be the black nylon braided hose. Any suggestions?
The requirements are:
1. Function - No Leaks, long term sealing
2. Esthetics - Hopefully match rest of hose, clean, professional look
3. Ease of Use - Hopefully be made in garage with minimal special tools

Thanks for any input you all may have!

[XLexusTech]

I have heard the braided stuff leaks...
take a look at this..

http://www.eaton.com/Eaton/ProductsS...ngs/PCT_259178

I hear its what VA packages as "EZ clip" and that it is felxiable and stands up well.... i am looking for a retailer for it that get me a good price..

[Ron in SoCal]

You can also use the 'ol reliable black and get a split-seam wrap that will match your other braided hoses quite well.

[ccracin]

Originally Posted by Ron in SoCal

You can also use the 'ol reliable black and get a split-seam wrap that will match your other braided hoses quite well.

So far Ron that is what I am leaning toward. I can get crimped hoses made and put the wrap on them with shrink wrap to finish the ends. I just don't like have to "Go Somewhere" to have them made and then hope I measured correct, got them clocked correctly, and the vendor did what I asked for.

Anyone else?

[ccracin]

Originally Posted by XLexusTech

I have heard the braided stuff leaks...
take a look at this..

http://www.eaton.com/Eaton/ProductsS...ngs/PCT_259178

I hear its what VA packages as "EZ clip" and that it is felxiable and stands up well.... i am looking for a retailer for it that get me a good price..

I saw those, but the metal band clamps are..............well..............Fugly!

[XLexusTech]

Originally Posted by ccracin

I saw those, but the metal band clamps are..............well..............Fugly!

Only if you see them

[ccracin]

Originally Posted by XLexusTech

Only if you see them

I gotcha, I have a solution to that other than where thr AC lines meet the Sanden Compressor. If I can get past that, they will work.

[XLexusTech]

Originally Posted by ccracin

I gotcha, I have a solution to that other than where thr AC lines meet the Sanden Compressor. If I can get past that, they will work.

From the looks of the rest of you thread.. I am sure you will figure it out !

Awesome work!

[renegade6]

When I had my lines made for my last project, I taped the ends with masking tape to the hoses so the parts store wouldn't mess up the clocking.

[72Z/28]

In my case I did the smoothing of the firewall and decided to run the AC hoses behind or through the fender and made two 1 1/4 inch holes in the blower hole that was covered and welded. I ordered the VA extra length hose kit from Summit and had to cut only the #6 line. However, the biggest mistake I made is that the fender had been installed prior to running the hoses under the fender, and it was a hassle to run the #10 hose through the 1 1/4 inch hole while having the VA grommet as well. This was also becuase of the fitting that was crimped by a crimping machine before the insertion of the line.