AC gauges and hoses

[Tony1968]

Can anyone recommend a set of gauges for doing the AC on my car? I have a vac pump but my gauges are from the early 90's and are beat to heck. I used to do car and residential ac but that was r12 and r22. Don't think I'll have issues with new stuff but don't want to spend hundreds on a set if I'm only going to use it once... hopefully
Thanks

 

[JimmyCamino]

Tony - I've been happy with the Pittsburgh R134a set I bought from Harbor Freight. Under $70. - Jim

 

[78Delta88]

Yep, just get the regular 134 manifold gauge set. Harbor Freight I have several, never had an issue.

If you still have the original R-12 Schrader valves you have to get the R-134 attachments. They are not very expensive and just screw on to the R-12 connectors. Once attached, they stay on.

 

[Tony1968]

Thanks guys. Heading to HF in a few hours. My system is new Holley and Restomod air so it's 134a. Takes 24oz total but I'll pick up 3 12oz cans just in case and make sure I have all correct fittings.

 

[Tony1968]

Bought the Pittsburgh set. Haven't been in HF since they had that recall on jack stands many moons ago and had a gift card that was given for defective stands. Wasn't sure it would still be good. But miracles exist. Walked out with gauges and a few extra fittings and 3 12oz cans of 134a for $30. Merry Christmas to me.

 

[Tomeal]

If the set you bought still has plastic knobs, remember to be easy on them. Grabbed mine forgot they weren't the yellow jackets and cranked a little to hard on them.



I also remember some issue with the yellow charge hose not working with the 1lb can adapters. I used another hose I had.

My set is old so yours could be different.

 

[Tony1968]

If the set you bought still has plastic knobs, remember to be easy on them. Grabbed mine forgot they weren't the yellow jackets and cranked a little to hard on them.

View attachment 232662

I also remember some issue with the yellow charge hose not working with the 1lb can adapters. I used another hose I had.

My set is old so yours could be different.

This one has aluminum knobs but specifically says don't over tighten. Was getting ready to vac system. Changed pump oil because it has to be 20 years old. You think dif gear oil smells bad. Ha. Nasty. Anyway bumped it on and coupler exploded. Waiting on parts now.