Interesting Catfish, thanks for the info.

I knew about the hose thing and figure that is where all the molecules went as I haven't detected the leak from the metal parts yet. It was a crap shoot but only cost $140. Just don't want to do it again.

I figure to find a junked van and rob the a/c parts. Had one close by but wasn't ready to commit. Since the body style is the same I believe this should work, if not let me know. Not looking forward to working in the tight quarters.

The van is like new with 83k miles originating in TX then southern KS, old people driven and spent time in a garage or I wouldn't be pursuing this avenue. And I may not get it done but no a/c is not gonna work for me i don't believe.

I'd prefer to have the system designed for the R134 if possible, especially using a more efficient compressor designed for it.