Originally Posted by
jangell
I was able to run the hoses though without separating the frame and body, although by "I" I mean "my friend who is a mechanic but not specifically one who works on DeLoreans". I used original-style hoses (so, single hoses, not split hoses with extra connectors) that DMC MW made for me to R134 spec.
The trick is to jack the car up by the body, not the frame. This separates the frame and body JUST enough (without removing any bolts) to allow the hose connectors to slide through. However, many people have an aversion to jacking from the body for fear of damaging it or flexing something they shouldn't (I'm less concerned; I mean, there are jack points on the body, after all, but I admit I jack from the frame whenever possible). We didn't have to pry the frame, but we tapped the hose along with a mallet and a block of wood in a few places.
-- Joe