If done carefully , it can work just fine.
Joining AC hoses that was is pretty much  the normal practice in subaru
conversions, as you have to join soobie hoses to Vanagon ones.
there are  of course 'real' crimp fittings that look factory, but the
tool to do that with requires the hose be out of the car according to my
AC shop.

you could have an AC shop sniff those junctions for leaks.  If your AC
is working, it's probably working like that a long time anyway.
btw........if they used real AC barbed hose
fittings..............they're really up to the job.  Very well made
parts - seems like titanium  - with about 6 barbs on each end.
scott
www.turbovans.com

Allan Streib wrote:
> Was under the front of my van the other day and noticed that both the
> rubber lines to the AC condenser have been cut, near the condensor,
> and spliced back together.  Looks like short lengths of aluminum or
> steel tubing was used, with the cut ends of the rubber lines
> hose-clamped to each end.
>
> I'd guess this was done when the radiator was replaced (prior to my
> ownership) by some ham-fisted mechanic who could not get the fittings
> decoupled properly.
>
> So, since what's done is done, does this have any prayer of being able
> to hold a refrigerant charge?
>
> Allan
> --
> 1991 Vanagon GL
>
>
>