The 5 Best A/C Hose Crimpers

This wiki has been updated 20 times since it was first published in October of 2018. If you're serious about auto repair, then you should consider investing in one of these A/C hose crimpers. They're pricier than most tools, and you're not likely to use them very often, but if they spare you a trip to the mechanic, they'll quickly pay for themselves. We've included both manual and hydraulic options, so you can decide for yourself how hard you want to work. When users buy our independently chosen editorial selections, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

1. MasterCool Hydra-Krimp 71500

The MasterCool Hydra-Krimp 71500 (around $557) comes with quite a few dies, allowing you to tackle a variety of hose sizes in the time it takes to swap out a tool. It is a little on the pricey side, but its versatility and general build quality make it worth every penny.

No need to remove hose from vehicle
Handheld hydraulic pump
Works on reduced barrier hoses

2. Amflo 855

The Amflo 855 (appx. $119) sports heavy-duty ductile iron castings, allowing it to crimp repeatedly without too much wear and tear. It's perfect for a busy shop, and the price point is friendly enough that springing for it won't put your company too far in the red.

Works on steel-braided hoses
Small footprint
Five dies included

3. MasterCool 71550

Any professional gearhead should have the MasterCool 71550 (around $148) in their garage — and most shade tree mechanics will want one as well. It can create production-quality crimps, enabling you to do your own repairs and fix any existing ferrules on your vehicle.

Pairs well with impact drivers
Lightweight and compact
Made of high-grade aluminum

4. Kohstar Manual

The Kohstar Manual (appx. $169) is a no-nonsense option that might not scratch your itch for a bright, shiny, new tool, but it's a dependable model that will be there when you need it. Everything snaps neatly into place without requiring pins or screws.

Works for beadlock fittings
Holding fixture included
Universal vise compatibility

5. MXbaoheng SD-7842B

The MXbaoheng SD-7842B (around $489) has a long hydraulic hose connecting the crimper to the pump, allowing you to dictate the amount of pressure placed on your fittings. This means that it takes up more space than similar models, though, so be sure you're willing to sacrifice the room.

Bright yellow for easy visibility
Plastic box for die storage
Expensive for what it does

Last updated by Quincy Miller

After getting his bachelor’s from the University of Texas, Quincy Miller moved out to Los Angeles, where he soon found work as a copywriter and researcher, specializing in health and wellness topics for a major online media brand. Quincy is also knowledgeable about home improvement, as he’s had extensive experience with everything from insulation to power tools to emergency room trips, sometimes in that order. Sharing a home with three dogs and a couple of cats has forced Quincy to learn as much as he can about pet supplies, animal nutrition and, most importantly, the best ways to tackle the mountains of fur that accumulate in every corner of your home.

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