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Apr 9, 2010 | 08:42 AM

gr8t73

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From: Usa

Picture Posts Please

I am trying to put my 73 Coupe factory A/C system back into service for the summer. Everything is there hard lines, evaporator box, condenser, compressor all

except the hoses. Could someone please post photos of their factory system especially the hose routing. Also where is the best place to get accurate replacement hoses. I've heard many of the vendors sell hoses that are "close enough" but not truly accurate.

Apr 9, 2010 | 09:20 AM

oldsarge

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From: Canboro Ontario

I don't have any pics for you, but I know it is next to impossible to find the 73 original manifold hose. The repops are functional, but do not look original. If you have an AIM manual, it will show you all the hoses and routing. You can find most of the hoses you need from any of the aftermarket guys, you will just have to shop for the best price.

Apr 9, 2010 | 10:49 AM

gr8t73

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From: Usa

Quote:

Originally Posted by oldsarge

I have looked at most of the vendors hoses and you are right they don't look be exactly correct but probably functional. I was wondering if anyone has ordered these hoses from Doc Rebuild his web site states they are correct and my experience has been his parts usually are accurate. I have looked at my AIM and the routing is there but photos of an accurate installation would be very helpful if someone would be willing to post.

Apr 9, 2010 | 06:00 PM

oldsarge

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From: Canboro Ontario

Quote:

Originally Posted by gr8t73

Most of Doc. Rebuild's, hoses are correct, his manifold hose is a GM replacement, that they will say is correct, but it is the same as the others. You can try Paragon Vintage dept. for a used one, or try this guy, he is all and only 73.
Lyle Chamberlain
(419) 826-3666
Swanton, Ohio.

Apr 9, 2010 | 06:51 PM

Ironcross

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From: Taylor Michigan

NAPA or Advance, both should be able to help you with hoses or make up hoses from the '4 Seasons brand......or local AC shops

Apr 10, 2010 | 05:10 AM

redwingvette

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From: Waterford Mi

When I rebuilt my 73 AC I replaced the hoses and found the hose going to the condenser was much longer. It seems that the extension tube that went from the condenser through the rad support was suppose to be removed and replaced by the new hose. I took the hose to the local radiator shop and had them cut it to the correct length and left the extension tube in place. The GM service bulletin shows they also added a fill valve in the line.

Last edited by redwingvette; Apr 10, 2010 at 05:13 AM.

Apr 10, 2010 | 10:22 PM

gr8t73

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From: Usa

Quote:

Originally Posted by redwingvette

Thanks redwingvette, I have the replacement compressor hose and it also is designed to eliminate the metal extension tube. I will do exactly as you did and have it cut to the correct length. For the line that runs from the condenser to the VIR I will just have a local shop make it up for me. The diagram you posted is helpful but due to size a bit difficult for me to read. Could you email me the diagram in a pdf format. My email address is gr8t73@hotmail.com I would greatly appreciate it.

Apr 11, 2010 | 09:37 PM

gr8t73

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From: Usa

I wanted to thank redwingvette for emailing the pdf diagram it was extremely helpful and I wanted to thank everyone else for their responses. I now have a path forward and hopefully be cruising with cold a/c this summer.