Air conditioning hose assemblies are used to carry refrigerant and lubricant between the components of car, truck, bus, heavy equipment and other mobile air conditioning systems. These systems typically utilize both a pressure and return line. Various end connection types are available depending on the vehicle.
Types of Air Conditioning Hose
Continental’s Galaxy 4826 Full Dimension Barrier Hose
Wire braid reinforced; used in large off road equipment, bus and transit applications
- Reduced outside diameter allows for tighter routing; used in automotive, truck and heavy equipment applications
- Commonly used in automotive and truck applications
Corrugated teflon or stainless steel metal hose
- High end and extremely durable; used in bus and transit applications
Types of Air Conditioning Hose End Connections
- Permanent crimp, socket style re-useable and clip style re-useable
- O-ring bump tube, SAE/JIC flare, o-ring face seal, German DIN, flange style
- Low and high end valved charge and test ports
- The metal tube portion of some AC hose assemblies can often be saved by using weld or compression style hose ends on new hose.
How to check AC Hose Assemblies
AC hose assemblies are subjected to high temperatures and other extreme road conditions. A regular visual inspection will help you avoid the dangers associated with a damaged hose assembly. Visual keys are:
- Pinholes: Tiny holes that may allow flammable fluid to spray on hot engine surfaces.
- End connection leaks: Fluid leaks due to damaged or old end seals and threads.
- Softness: Indicates that the fluid conveyed has seeped through the tube and is eating away at the hose components.
- Cracks or rotting of hose cover: Indicates that the hose has been affected by heat and ozone and lost the ability to hold pressure.
- Discolored fluid: Dark fluid often indicates that a hose assembly’s tube is being eaten away and causing contamination.