Michael Benno

I need some help understanding the correct positioning of the flexible AC return hose that connects from the low-pressure return line into the compressor. Item 29 in the diagram below.




I removed my compressor to rebuild it. Re-installation and O-rings replacement required removing the hoses. Now re-installed, the hose is forced against the radiator shroud (This is a S4). Is that normal? I don't remember if it was before but there are marks on the hose to indicate it was. I'd appreciate any pics of the proper clearance. It's a difficult area to see.

Second question, I noticed that my hose offered some ability to swivel the top neck (see purple circled area). Is that correct? Seems like a place to leak.

davek9

I can only say it should not be touching the Fan Shroud, else you would have to remove the AC hose in order to remove the Fan shroud, and I have never had to do that.
Also I do not recall that part being a swivel, it is a pressed on crimp and the orientation is determined by whomever crimped it. IIRC that large hose connects to the Lo side AC pipe that is attached to the Fender, and that may be out of alignment???

Are these new stock hoses or did you have them re-done?

Michael Benno

Thanks for the reply. The AC hoses are OEM. They both have remnants of parts tables on them which may mean they were replaced at some point. I do have the CSF radiator in my car which I noticed is wider than stock by about 1/2' and that may be pushing the shroud out a bit more. The low side (return) line attached to the fender looks solid. I'll try and get some pictures posted.

worf928

skpyle

Good photo!
Thank you for that, Dave.

Rob Edwards

Hardline support bracket and tensioner bracket orientation:

worf928

You're welcome. I'm surprised that I was able to beat Rob "The Picture Man" Edwards

M. Requin

Thanks gents for the pics! Does that configuration also work for S models?

Michael Benno

davek9

Is it an older aluminum Rad, the last two I purchased, the ones that 928 International and Roger sells were an exact fit, not thicker, I know some of the older ones were?
I also see that the Fan shroud tabs are not fitting into the slots on the bottom edge, looks like you have Zip Ties, that could be a factor too.

merchauser

BUMP
I am having the same issue that Michael mentioned in first post: the orientation of the suction hose now is firmly against the cooling fan shroud. I have the original radiator and this was not
happening prior to removing compressor.

it is a MUST that the hoses attach to the compressor before the compressor is hoisted in place? it does not appear there is access to the fittings with any wrench, tool or spanner.

is it the function of this bracket to orient the hoses with compressor off the car? (this bracket is pre 1990, for 6 cylinder compressors)

dr bob

The hose connections on the compressor manifold adapters must be made before the compressor is secured in the support on the block. WYAIT list includes replacing the o-rings under those plates with HNBR, and replacing the schraeder valves in those charge ports. New HNBR o-rings in the port caps is good too. This area is inaccessible with the compressor in the bracket, as it fits up pretty snugly under the heat shield. Don't Over-Tighten The Hose Connections. Lubricate all the o-rings with refrigerant oil prior to installation.


The hoses present a pretty long moment arm, so support from that hose bracket is critical to the long-term survival of the hose ends and the manifold plate connections. The o-rings in those tapered-seat connections will distort if the hose is allowed to wiggle at all. The torque requirements are less than one might think ideal, but perfect for applying just the right amount of squeeze to the hose-end o-rings. It's absolutely critical that the connections won't twist, else the o-rings will tear and leak. That bracket serves all those purposes.

merchauser

OK got it! that makes it all very clear. thanks

compressor is in place and now I need to know if there is a trick to threading the high side hose, past the radiator, to reconnect to the condenser?

Rob Edwards

Undo the passenger side blockoff shield, screws are marked. The upper tapping screw may be reached from above if you position the headlight correctly, or from below with the headlight completely raised, through the right front wheelwell.

merchauser

^^^^^ Thanks…...Found the lower screw with ease but not the upper. For the record, the cooling fans and radiator are in place; do they need to come out?
Removed the RH fender liner, along with the forward dust shield to expose the headlight. Looks like the upper screw is hidden behind the horns? I was able to wrestle out the hose with just a little tug. I don't suppose I can cheat and do the same with re install?