Originally Posted by Momobile
There are threads on the connector but I was thinking they were for the cap. I bought a R134 hose and it doesn't fit the port, and I also have an old R12 hose from years ago and it doesn't fit either. I'm on the correct port, smaller one on the larger pipe (as per the instructions). I appreciate everyone's help and I'll get the dryer for sure but I have to figure out the hose issue now.
R-134a connections are NOT threaded, they are "quick-disconnect" couplers. You snap them on and lock them into place, then turn on the valve atop each side.
If you bought a retrofit kit, it's SUPPOSED to have service port adaptors that you put atop the R-12 fittings, and they are supposed to remain in place for the duration of the vehicle life. If you're charging with R-134a, then you need those adaptors, return the kit if it doesn't come with it.
These are all service fittings that go atop R-12 service ports
Anyway, some of the latter years, just nearing the end of R-12 production, the fittings require an adaptor to the hose and yes it is a slightly larger diameter. I'd always borrow that adaptor from someone caz all the R-12 vehicles I serviced, where never a direct fit to the hose line, and required that adapter.
part #90005 is what I'm talking about