Well the 96 definately has an A/C leak I filled the system about 3 months ago and it worked fine. Recently the weather has gotten hotter in NJ reaching near 100 F which is more then I and probably the Aero is used to.

During these high temperatures it seems that the Aeros A/C just died I can't say for sure how many days it took from good cool a/c to nothing but definately less then a week. The clutch cycles too fast which tells me low refrigerant charge.

I'm going to pick up some UV dye to find the leak once I do however and have the system discharged I will most likely need to replace a hose (hoping the leak isn't in the evaporator or condenser).

According to the Ford service manual whenever a major part of the A/C system is replaced including hoses the accumulator should be replaced I will replace that however are there any other parts I should replace while I'm in there besides the accumulator and the hose?

Also since Ford refers to the hoses by what state the R-134a is in as it flows through them I want to make sure I have them straight in my head so I don't order the wrong one by mistake.

Suction Line - from the accumulator to the compressor inlet

Discharge Line - from the compressor outlet to the condensor

Liquid Line - from the condensor to the evaporator (I assume this line is also where the orifice tube is located).

Also are there any special tools I'll need to disconnect the fittings on the hoses similiar to the annoying quick disconnects on the heater core hoses.

 

In order to remove hoses, you will need a special set of "doo hickeys" to expand the spring fittings on the hose connectors. Can be had at any auto parts store and they usually come in a set of 4 for different diameter hose fittings and the price is not outrageous (10 bucks or less if I remember right). Just slip over the hose fitting and push into the circular spring, once you feel it seat pull on the hose end. You might have to wiggle it a little to get it started. Reassembly is a snap, replace the Orings, moisten with compressor oil and push together until it clicks into place.

Since you are going to open the system, disconnect the liquid line that enters at the bottom of the evaporator. Remove the old orifice tube and replace. I don't know what the difference is, but Ford has two different O tubes for the front and back unit. The one for the front is orange in color and there is an arrow on the Orifice indicating which end is inserted into the evaporator first. The old O tube can be removed with a pair of needle nose pliers.

 

Leaks are sometimes easy to find cause the area will be oily. Is it a ext with rear ac.? check underneath for pipes around brackets common spot.


Dick