I had a leak on the low pressure hose of the AC system on this truck so I bought a new hose assembly that includes both low and high pressure hoses. My question is; do I have to replace the accumulator too at the same time since it was exposed to the environment. It took me about an hour to complete the job so I wonder if its efficiency has gone bad. Thanks for your help.

 

It would likely be better if you did, but if you vacuum the system out real good, it will evaporate any moisture out. If your Chevy is an older model, it might be better if you did change the accumulator out, however. It's a filter of sorts, and all filters need to be replaced eventually. But eventually, it's your call.

 

The rule of thumb for accumulators is 24 hours exposure to atmosphere before replacement is required.

If the accumulator has been replaced within the last couple of years, it’s unlikely to need replacement now.

If it’s several years old or you’re not sure, I’d recommend replacement.

 

Yeah, depending on model, they are $20 to $30 bucks. Not going to break the bank. I'd have replaced the orifice tube as well.

 

Thanks Guys for your advice and suggestions. I went ahead and replaced both the accumulator and the orifice . I pulled a vacuum until the gage showed 28 inches of mercury. Than waited for another 30 minutes to see if there were any leaks, no leaks found at all. I recharged the system. Pressure on the low side goes from about 45 and down to about 20 psi. The high pressure gage shows about 225 psi. Ambient temp. was about 95 degree when I did this. I think this readings are about right.
Let me know if you think the readings are normal or do I have a problem on eighter the low or high side.

 

20 PSI is pushing the boundary (below 20 is cause for concern) but overall the pressures look good - I wouldn’t worry about it if the duct temperature is good and remains stable.