Bryan, there were several versions of the Vanagon AC system. There are two main versions that were used on the waterboxer vans. The early version was used from 83-85 (some early 86) and the receiver drier is a tall can about 10 inches tall and located in the drivers side front wheel well. The later system, (86-91) the drier resembles a small beer keg about 8 inches tall and is located in the rear wheel well on the driver's side. Since the van you are asking about is an 86 it could be either version. You need to look at where the drier is located, and that will tell you want is in the 86 and then you can know if the parts from the 83 will be the same or not. The two systems are very different in the lengths of hoses, and also how they are run in the van, and the end fittings, etc.

The other issue you may run into is that there was also a Behr system that I have seen installed on the 83 Vanagons before. This system has the vents for the evaporator in the center of the dash where the radio was originally and it relocates the radio in a box down lower on the dash or between the two front seats. This system is completely different from the other two, but it is also very rare. Hopefully this helps you know what you have.

On 2/2/2015 9:29 AM, Bryan Feddish wrote: > Does anyone know if the AC hoses from an ‘86 Vanagon will fit an ‘83? > > Thanks, > Bryan >

-- Thanks, Ken Wilford John 3:16 www.vanagain.com Phone: 856-327-4936 Fax: 856-327-2242