AC suction line blew
 

My 95 sl500 while sitting in the garage for no reason decided to get into my wallet. The suction line blew (might have been rubbing the head) but I haven't used the ac in a while because the top is down. Do I have to add compressor oil or can I just replace the line and charge with freon? Also does anyone know if I can repair the line with some kind of coupler or something? Thanks, George

Usually what you're looking at with this is the whole manifold hose set, which is the high and low side hoses off the compressor.
You'll want to also replace the receiver/drier, as the system is now exposed to humidity.
Sooner the better.
Gilly

The manifold hoses can be rebuilt by a competent a/c shop. They will replace the rubber portions while retaining the metal manifold assembly and end pieces. Quality is the same as new. Be sure to replace the valve cores for the service valves - they get tired & leaky over time. You'll find that going this route will save 300-500 dollars.

You'll need to add oil because you will be replacing the receiver/dryer. It's doubtful you lost much oil through the hose. Refer to the shop manual on how to determine the correct amount of oil to add. Two ounces or so is typical with a dryer, but you need to research it. Be sure to use the correct oil as well, otherwise larger problems loom down the road.

JCYUHN is right about the hoses - have them rebuilt. The price for new ones is nothing short of ridiculous.

Look in the yellow pages for places that rebuild hydraulic hoses.

Do a search on Yahoo at "Tubes N Hoses". You should be able to find one in your area.

Well, I found an old R12 coupler at Pep Boys, cut the $450.00 suction line and installed then gave it a shot of freon and it's working great. Thanks for all your info. Total repair $65.00. Hope it holds up. George

Hi George-

I had the same exact thing happen to my 1992 500SL. I was in the house and heard a loud "pop" and then a hiss. Come to find out it was my hose as well.

I live in a rather small town and I wanted to get it fixed right away. Total parts and labor at the MB store was some $730!

I hope your fix works for you!