I've got the engine pulled out of my '72 Torino and while there's a big hole there, I'm refitting the firewall-mounted evaporator so I can get the A/C working again. I got a new evaporator and compressor and plan to convert to 134a. I have all the factory A/C parts which includes an accumulator with the hoses crimped on.
I know I need a new drier/receiver. Do I need new hoses? I can't find them for a '72 Torino. I also can't find an accumulator, which makes sense with them being an assembly. Can you clean a condenser or accumulator, assuming an accumulator is necessary. Any other suggestions?
Re the hoses, you should be able to have them refitted with 134a compatible hose by a competent hydraulic shop (or your local NAPA if they offer the service, the franchise here did mine but that was a few years ago). You can clean a condenser but i'm not sure about the accumulator. As with all advice it's worth what you paid for it and YMMV
Dunno if I'd be excited about using the old hoses. I've heard the R-134a is a smaller molecule and tends to get through the rubber more easily than R-12. And if those hoses are original, they're pretty bloody old.
Either a local shop, or Nostalgic AC (nostalgicac.com) could probably get you into some new hoses.
Edit: I believe both the accumulator and the receiver/dryer contain a dessicant and should be replaced anytime the system is opened.
My money:
New condenser, lines, drier, and a sanden compressor. Essentially only keeping the poa valve/expansion valve and evap from the torino. The new cheap Chinese stuff from ebay has been successful in my installations. Its worth it for the massive increase in efficiency and reliability over the 50 year old factory tech.
The last couple installs we did we used an eaton tool and hoses / fittings, there should be some helpful youtube stuff on it. I stumbled on it doing some AC work for an old vanagon that parts were NLA.
Eaton AC hose
