In a message dated 6/27/02 9:09:29 AM Central Daylight Time, BobB@xxxx writes: > I have noticed that on newer cars there is much less rubber hose and > more aluminum piping. Since by definition rubber hose has some > porousity, I have figured that this was done just as a good measure for > the environment. However, experience has now shown that this was done > because 134 does leak through hoses more easily. > > Now to redesign the hoses and replace them with metal..... > > BoB > Bob, actually there are rubber hoses out there that are more capable of handling R-134a. if you go to a place that specializes in pressurized lines and hydraulics, they can sell you some stock hose that will hold 134a. about two months ago i had my system vacuumed and the oil replaced with ester 100, and then charged with R-134A. i had a minor leak in my flexible lines but i had it repaired at a hydraulic shop. i didn't do any of the 'expert' stuff either, and my A/C blows so cold i have to turn it down after it's been running for about 30 minutes or else my hands go numb!!!! the place i did it at said the real trick is to vacuum the system for a long time, on the order of 2 hours. you really have to get all the moisture out for the system to work well. these guys have been doing it this way for a long time and haven't had any problems, and i haven't had any problems yet either........ but i'm just crossing my fingers! Andy Soma576@xxxx 1982 DeLorean DMC-12 VIN#11596 Fargo, ND 58102 [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]