I actually scouted this job 2 weeks ago when I scouted the leak. I thought you’d need to go in underneath - given the workspace, hampered by a set of A/C lines I couldn’t really see a way to do it. So then I pulled both wheels - there’s just no way to get there that way either. Those AC lines are in the way (and not easily moved), and the fittings face toward the passenger’s side. Even without the AC lines I don’t think there’s a way in. From the passenger’s side there’s simply zero access given all of the junk in the way. That’s when I decided I couldn’t do it and would have to take it in.
The $400 price tag had me looking again, and I saw I could get in from the top if I pulled the air intake tract. So I went for it - I’m still convinced its the only way it can be done, though I suppose if I had a lift rather than jackstands, and a more interesting assortment of specialty tools, going in from the bottom could be feasible. Some part of my day did involve looking at every possible angle again.
In any case, I did finally manage it & now have the lines out (see above. The other end of the pressure line was a perfect and very tightly fitting 16mm, btw). But I did decide to close shop before proceeding to reinstall everything - at least partly b/c when I’m tired and annoyed I get sloppy & don’t do things as carefully as I should. Because of the complicated hose routing and the tangled mess this van is under the hood I’m not expecting a picnic, but the rest of the complication is reasonable & manageable.
I really appreciate the help.