Bryan, there were several versions of the Vanagon AC system.  There are
two main versions that were used on the waterboxer vans.  The early
version was used from 83-85 (some early 86) and the receiver drier is a
tall can about 10 inches tall and located in the drivers side front
wheel well.  The later system, (86-91) the drier resembles a small beer
keg about 8 inches tall and is located in the rear wheel well on the
driver's side.  Since the van you are asking about is an 86 it could be
either version.  You need to look at where the drier is located, and
that will tell you want is in the 86 and then you can know if the parts
from the 83 will be the same or not.  The two systems are very different
in the lengths of hoses, and also how they are run in the van, and the
end fittings, etc.

The other issue you may run into is that there was also a Behr system
that I have seen installed on the 83 Vanagons before.  This system has
the vents for the evaporator in the center of the dash where the radio
was originally and it relocates the radio in a box down lower on the
dash or between the two front seats.  This system is completely
different from the other two, but it is also very rare.  Hopefully this
helps you know what you have.

On 2/2/2015 9:29 AM, Bryan Feddish wrote:
> Does anyone know if the AC hoses from an ‘86 Vanagon will fit an ‘83?
>
> Thanks,
> Bryan
>

--
Thanks,
Ken Wilford
John 3:16
www.vanagain.com
Phone: 856-327-4936
Fax: 856-327-2242