I have to replace the Hi pressure line from the compressor to the condenser coil on my 69 Cutlass AC system. What is the purpose of the muffler and is it needed? They are currently back ordered at OPGI. I am considering have it repaired and wonder If it can be eliminated? Are there any other sources that can be recommended?
thanks,
Steve

 

I needed a muffler hose for my 1970 Rallye 350 and got it from the parts place. It was in stock back in October.

 

Unless the muffler is damaged, you could just have new hoses installed on the existing fittings.

 

I did wind up having the hose replaced for $60.
thanks,
Steve

 

For future readers, the muffler absorbs the pulses coming from the pistons moving in the compressor. Without it, the hose and condenser can vibrate and make noise.
Note the word "can". That's why you seem them on the higher trim cars, and not necessarily on a Chevy or Pontiac.
I ran a hose without a muffler on an R4, there was some noise but not terrible. Right now I've adapted a little 90deg muffler from some truck hose to run with my sanden setup.

And usually the easiest answer is to find a local hydraulics repair shop. Crimping A/C hoses is a lot like crimping hydraulic hose, so they typically do A/C hose work on the side.

If you want to go way down the rabbit hole, two complete sets of re-done hoses is about the same price as buying one of the cheap crimp tools from ebay, then the bulk hose and fittings from a supplier like Cold Hose (I like that shop - they've treated me well).

 

Thanks for the answer to the purpose of the muffler. I did take it to a hydraulic hose place and the cut off the fittings and reconnected them to new hose. Total cost $60. It doesn't look much different and was 1/4 of the cost of a new hose/muffler. I can live with the small difference, which is buried in the heater hoses.

Steve