I figured out what is wrong with my A/C

[chaase]

But I need to know if this is something that is easy to fix. For a quick recap, I had a leak somewhere in the A/C system. The A/C worked fine when it was charged, but after a few weeks it would be back to warm. It was clear I was losing Freon (I know its not really Freon)

I finally figured out that the leak is in metal fitting of one of the rubber hose lines for the A/C at the top of the engine. It is the one closest to the engine that runs right down and next to the radiator cap.

Sooo, how easy is it to replace that hose? Do I need a special tool or can I just get a new one and drop it in?

This is not my car, but if you look at this pic. It is the rubber hose on the left side of the top of the engine. It is next to the charging connection for the A/C. (i.e. directly to the right of the metal A/C line)

[CREWZIN]

The hose is probably something you can do yourself but in order to do it you have to empty the system of the R134. To do that you need special equipment to capture the used R134. You can be fined heavily for just emptying it out yourself. Then you can replace the hose. Then you have to fill the system up with just the right amount of new R134 plus a small amount of something else that lubes the internals. The high side and low side have to be in a particular range or you'll have problems, too much or too little pressure.

[mopar_man]

The lines are very easily replaced (one bolt/nut on each end) but as mentioned by CREWZIN, the system needs to be discharged and charged by someone qualified to do the job.

[slartyblarfast]

It's also a bear to get too. The nut next to the cap is easy, it's where it bolts to the compressor that is a BEAR!!! Small hands and lots of cussing! Take grille and upper radiator support off to make it easier.

[chaase]

Thanks for the advice. I am not worried that much about discharging the system since it is already leaking and I don't get any cold air anymore. If the initial charging procedure is different from a basic recharge, then I will bring it to a professional and have them do it.

Thanks for the advice,
Chris