Quote:
Originally Posted by ROLLGUY
The problem with just grinding off the sleeves (ferrules), is that the factory fittings are "bead lock", meaning the sleeve is locked into the fitting. If the sleeve is ground or cut off, a new sleeve is only clamping the hose, and not connected to the fitting. This type of fitting has less aggressive barbs than a non-bead lock fitting. I have had experience with the hose coming off because the sleeve is not captured on the fitting (higher pressures with 134a). If you cut off the old hose and sleeve, a new barb can be welded on, and will hold the hose without the sleeve being part of the fitting (coarser barb).
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I am new to beadlock fittings so pardon me if I am not describing it right. Isn't the "beadlock" the "bead" on the male insert where the o-ring seats which also forms a stop against its female mating half? The sleeve or ferrule is for crimping the hose and has nothing to do with the bead.
The Mercedes AC fittings are all beadlock fittings where the sleeve or ferrule is part of the entire fitting and not a replaceable part. If one tries to grind off the Mercedes ferrule and replace with a ferrule with a barb hole in it, it will be a much weaker crimp.