View Full Version : AC hose crimp tool???
JimLev
04-02-2018, 10:36 PM
What are you guys doing to crimp the fittings for the AC hoses?
I've called Vintage Air however their phone system is on the fritz (seems like it always is) and you can't get past the recorded message.
AZPete
04-02-2018, 10:54 PM
I used the Vintage Air EZ Clip system and bought #420000-VUR EZ Clip pliers. I was amazed that months later when I had the system charged by an AC shop, there were no leaks! I can't imagine any other way to reliably crimp the hoses with the EZ Clips. Unfortunately, I sent my pliers off to another FFR builder, otherwise I'd send you mine. Anyone else have those pliers in your tool box that you no longer need?
Gordon Levy
04-02-2018, 10:55 PM
I have the $140 crimp tool. You can go to any hydraulic place and have the crimped. Make sure you mark the fitting and hose for any specific angles.
Fixit
04-03-2018, 04:25 AM
These guys seem to be everywhere, and have done stuff for me
Pirtek (https://www.pirtekusa.com/locations/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIjrWeruSd2gIVy7rACh23OAqmEAAYASA BEgIWLPD_BwE)
(Well, I take that back - no listings in NM... but it may help someone else.)
edwardb
04-03-2018, 07:07 AM
I suspect Gordon is talking about this A/C hose crimper: https://www.mastercool.com/product/71550/. Also the one Factory Five references in their A/C instructions. In the $140-150 range if you shop around. The Vintage Air clip system looks interesting. But if you already have the hoses and fittings, an expensive option to buy all that stuff again. Or just take your hoses to a shop that can crimp them for you, as others have suggested. I have the A/C installation ahead on my Coupe build. Still considering options, but likely will just bite the bullet and get the crimper.
JimLev
04-03-2018, 07:47 AM
Thanks for the info guys. I'm thinking about biting the bullet too and buy one.
The EZ clip looks interesting.
I do like the Mastercool one you linked to. Seems like it would provide a tighter crimp.
I have all the fittings and hose, I'd like to do it myself at my own pace.
I used the EZ clip system on my HR. It is a fantastic hose system in that the hose is of an overall much smaller diameter allowing for tighter radius' especially if room is at a premium. It is also very easy to assemble the hoses. I rented the crimp tool from Vintage but you can buy it for $78. I will try and dig up a picture of my installation. The system is actually from Aeroquip.
https://www.vintageair.com/custom/magnify-image.php?image=547002
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/816/26339905017_cdaf2cf8dd_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/G8yU6p)Hot Rod 019 (https://flic.kr/p/G8yU6p) by , on Flickr
Olli