Help, AC out and local mechanic indicates leak in the manifold hose, also calling for repair/replace of the accumulator??? Total estimate $850 range. Tells me that if I don’t fix it now that could have more expensive repair bill later because system now breeched. Neighbor has offered to charge system for me so we can see how long will hold the coolant but mechanic won’t go for much cheaper alternative. Any insights welcomes; really don’t want to put out the money now but don’t want to prevent same repair later if have funds then.
A/C isn’t typically a DIY project, unless you really know what you’re doing. Putting a can of refrigerant in may help, but may not. If your mechanic is a general mechanic, and not an A/C specialist, try one of them.
You don’t need to replace the accumulator if the AC system only developed a leak. However, in order to remove the moisture from the AC system it requires an AC vacuum pump. If you have access to a vacuum pump then install the new manifold hose, pull a vacuum on the system for about an hour to remove any moisture, and recharge the system to see if it holds.
It just so happens I’m doing the same repair on an Explorer and that’s what I’m going to do.
Tester