Grand Caravan V6-3.8L VIN L (2007)
Hose/Line HVAC: Description and Operation
Plumbing
Description
DESCRIPTION
The A/C refrigerant lines and hoses are used to carry the refrigerant between the various A/C system components. The refrigerant lines and hoses for the
R-134a system on this vehicle consist of a barrier-hose design with a nylon tube sandwiched between rubber layers. The nylon tube helps to contain the
R-134a refrigerant, which has a smaller molecular structure than R-12 refrigerant. The ends of the refrigerant lines are made from lightweight aluminum
or steel, and commonly use braze-less fittings.
Any kinks or sharp bends in the refrigerant lines and hoses will reduce the capacity of the entire A/C system and can reduce the flow of refrigerant in the
system. The radius of all bends in the flexible hose refrigerant lines should be at least ten times the diameter of the hose and the refrigerant lines should
be routed so they are at least 80 millimeters (3 inches) away from the exhaust manifold(s) and exhaust pipe(s).
Operation
OPERATION
High pressures are produced in the refrigerant system when the A/C compressor is operating. Extreme care must be exercised to make sure that each of
the refrigerant system connections is pressure-tight and leak free. It is a good practice to inspect all flexible hose refrigerant lines at least once a year to
make sure they are in good condition and properly routed.
The refrigerant lines and hoses are coupled to other A/C system components with block-type fittings. An O-ring seal, or a flat steel gasket with an
integral O-ring (dual plane seal), is used to mate the refrigerant line fittings with A/C system components to ensure the integrity of the refrigerant system.
The refrigerant lines and hoses cannot be repaired and, if faulty or damaged, they must be replaced.
