GMW-CSL

I need to modify the AC compressor refrigerant lines to fit the compressor into my BMW using a new LS1/6 compressor. I need to cut the aluminum tubing to re-route it. I'm told that a map gas torch and aluminum rod with flux (1100 degree melt) is the way to do this. Do any of you have any experience with this?

NoTicketsPlease

iTrader: (2)

try the tools forum

jdustu

iTrader: (2)

i know for any other type of gas welding, mapp gas sucks....but the reason it sucks is because it doens't burn hot enough, so maybe that would work with the aluminum....personally, i'd tig it, but i'm interested to hear from someone that's done this......

cbrich

I have brazed/welded aluminum once with gas but that was when I was in school, I used the cobra torch to do this. I usually TIG aluminum just because it is easier and lower chance of melting a hole in it.

sparkwirez06

iTrader: (18)

http://www.alumaloy.com/ anyone ever try this??

MrElectric03

iTrader: (71)

I would tig it, also find an old ac line around or even get one from a junk yard...practice makes perfect.

WE TODD DID

iTrader: (2)

Definitely tig it if you can.

vanillagorilla

iTrader: (1)

Don't tig it, it will probably seep rerfrigerant over time. A tig will probably come out stronger, but a properly brazed joint will never leak. I would braze it with an oxy/acetelene torch, and use the flux cored braze rings sold by docsblocks.com. There are also instructional videos you can download for free on that site.

orangeapeel

iTrader: (18)

I was about to say the same thing. If you have ever worked on refrigerant lines you have used brazing rod and cutting torch to mend.

WE TODD DID

iTrader: (2)

I've been doing a/c lines for years. I've always done the tig method with no problems, ever. I guess it all comes down to your welding skills.

SoxXpupPeT

iTrader: (34)

always TIG weld. clean it up real good with some light sand paper so theres no dirt on it. and just put a little spot on it. works perfectly

jsds500

iTrader: (1)

I've had good luck tig welding them, getting it clean is important, The oil in the line can contaminate your weld and make it hard to get a good weld. I use brake clean, just make sure its dry before you start welding.

99345hp

I would tig weld also, but it will take a good welder to be able to do this. Those lines are pretty thin. I would get .032 filler material. Use 1/16th tungsten and at those low amps it wont matter if its green or red. Sharpen the tungsten to a point (no need for the ball). Clean the joint out well. Use a brand new stainless brush and acetone. Fit the joint up with a very slight gap between the pieces and tack together. Now weld her up making sure to get good penetration. Good luck.

geestyle4

first of all a proper weld will never ever seep. second the skills needed to braze alumium is very hard thing to do. 9/10 of you will end up with the whole thing melted in a puddle on your floor. if you know how to tig try that better chance of sucess.