A/C Problem 98 Caravan

Hi, I have a 1998 Caravan that failed the cool-down test so I decided to recharge the system. I had the engine running and the a/c on when I started to fill system. About 15 seconds after I opened the valve to let the refridgerant in the system there was a loud pop. I turned off the engine and closed the valve on the refridgerant. I looked at the hoses and I now have a big hole in the other hose (I believe its called the discharge line) that comes off the compressor. Did I do something wrong or do these hoses fail sometimes and I just need to replace the hose? Thanks.

The fan relays on our cars are prone to failure and have been redesinged many times. In your case I would suspect the relay.

Did you have the can upside down when you opened the valve?

I'm no A/C tech, but if you had the can upside down, you may have slugged the compressor with liquid. If that's the case, the hole in your hose might have been metal shrapnel from the compressor. I certainly hope that's not your problem or you're looking at a VERY expensive repair (basically all new A/C components forward of the dash, $1000+ easily).

Hindsight is always 20/20, but failing a cool-down test is by no means an automatic indication to recharge with refrigerant - you need to get a proper mainfold gauge set and read the low and high side pressures, with knowledge of the ambient temperature, vent temperature, and engine RPM before making that decision. You didn't mention if the van was failing to cool down.

For more information, see auto AC forum (http://www.autoacforum.com/)

Chad