When it comes to air conditioning blown hoses are a symptom, not the real
cause of failure.  There are a number of different switch set ups that could
be used but the following functions should be part of that hose manifold.

High pressure service/gauge port. And if converted must have fitting to
match refrigerant used.
A low pressure switch to make sure there is some refrigerant in the system
to allow the compressor to run.
A pressure switch to place the radiator fan into high speed when needed.
(~275 psi)
An over pressure switch to turn the AC off if pressure continues to climb.

All of these functions can be in one switch known as a "Trinary".

The sudden hose failure was most likely the result of excessive pressure due
to an over charged system, fan or cut off system failing to protect, or a
defective dryer or expansion valve. These situations can also damage the
compressor. Moisture in the system can cause ice crystals to form blocking
the expansion valve. Just one reason a system needs to be properly evacuated
before charging. Air and moisture reduce efficiency and create internal
corrosion.

It may be time to seek a professional to get it repaired properly before
someone gets hurt.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Gregg Carlen
Sent: Tuesday, July 24, 2012 4:17 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Purpose of the ports on this AC hose?

>
> So, I'm down in Virginia Beach, VA and not near my usual shop that
> does AC in Northern Viringia, when I lost my AC again in my 90 Westy
> (2WD, stock 2.1L). (I'm down here two more weeks before I have to
> drive the van back up to NoVA; so hoping I can get the AC fixed before
then).
>
> The hose between the condensor in the upper cabinet and the dryer blew
> (it was the one hose that looked good and I didn't replace it - lesson
> learned; looks can be deceiving). It has this two-service-port
> connector in the middle. Seems to me it should be simple enough to get
> fabricated at a hose shop. My question is if this 2-service port
> fitting is just for the high and low pressure sensors, or, if there some
other purpose that these do?
> Seems like its nothing more than a 8" tube with a compression fitting
> at each end and two service ports.
>
> Hopefully, the link below will work or you to see the pic I posted on
> my Picasa account.
>
> Thanks,
> Gregg
> 90 Westy (Blueberry) continuing the never ending AC battle
>