A/C low pressure line replacement questions

[Tooonz]

My Gunmetal 98 jeep has A/C, with the warmer weather here I figured I would try to see if it worked. The switches inside I can hear the switch activating, but the clutch was not engaging. So I bypassed the low pressure switch to test that, and the clutch engaged. Now I wanted to see if the refrigerant was low and it was. So I bought some refrigerant and started filling. Didn’t take much before the gauge was in the red so I pulled the can off. Purged it just a little to bring the gauge into the green. Then I noticed the clutch was pulsing. So I shut it off. Well I sprayed some we 40 around the clutch first then that didn’t;t change it so I shit it off.

I walked away for a bit, when I returned I heard a leak.I traced it to the low pressure line had been rubbing on the fender for quite a while. The back side was flat and that is where the leak was. Is it fairly easy to change the line? Can I do this myself or do I need an A/C service guy?

Any help would be appreciated.

I know some will say it’s a Jeep what use A/C service……… on hot rainy days

 

[JKP]

A vacuum pump is required to evacuate the system before charging it. And a set set of AC gauges.

Replacing the line is simple, but you also need to replace the receiver dryer which has a desiccant bag in it and probably replace some lost oil.

Not something to do without experienced help the first time around.

 

[Vtx531]

If you actually want to do it yourself, get this book and read it all. Can probably find it free at library, elibrary, cheap on ebay. Gives all the theory and fundamentals.

There's A LOT that goes into an AC system. A lot of things that I didn't know I didn't know. Details matter greatly.

 

[KennethS]

As said, replacing the line is fairly easy. Afterwards, the system will need to be evacuated with a vacuum pump to remove air and moisture. If the system was not open for long, replacing the receiver/dryer (with desiccant) is not mandatory as it likely was not open long enough to absorb excessive moisture, and the bit it did will boil off during the vacuum pull-down. And as said, this will require gauges and a vacuum pump.

 

[Link]

The receiver/dryer isn't expensive so I'd replace that too. Peace of mind. I'd also add 1oz of oil.

 

[Tooonz]

Awesome! This is one I will leave to the professionals. Thank you.