Expansion Block/Orifice Tube: Service and Repair
EXPANSION (ORIFICE) TUBE REPLACEMENTREMOVAL PROCEDURE
TOOLS REQUIRED
J 26549-E Orifice Tube Remover and Installer or Equivalent
1. Recover the refrigerant from the system. Refer to Refrigerant Recovery and Recharging.
2. Remove the evaporator tube from the evaporator.
3. Remove the O-ring seal and discard.
4. Use the J 26549-E in order to remove the expansion (orifice) tube.
5. If you have difficulty removing a restricted or plugged expansion (orifice) tube, use the following procedure:
5.1. Remove as much of any impacted residue as possible.
NOTE: If the system has a pressure switch near the expansion (orifice) tube location, it should be removed prior to heating the pipe to avoid damage to switch.
5.2. Carefully apply heat with a heat gun (hair dryer, epoxy dryer, or equivalent) approximately 7 mm (0.25 in) from the dimples on the inlet pipe. DO NOT overheat the pipe.
5.3. While applying heat, use the J 26549-E or equivalent in order to grip the expansion (orifice) tube.
5.4. Use a turning motion along with a push-pull motion in order to loosen the impacted expansion (orifice) tube.
Remove the expansion (orifice) tube.
INSTALLATION PROCEDURE
IMPORTANT: Install the shorter screen end of the expansion (orifice) tube into the evaporator first.
1. Use the J 26549-E in order to install the expansion (orifice) tube.
2. Coat the new O-ring seal with 525 viscosity refrigerant oil.
3. Install the new O-ring seal.
NOTE: Refer to Fastener Notice in Service Precautions.
4. Install the evaporator tube to the evaporator.
Tighten
Tighten the evaporator tube to 28 N.m (21 lb ft).
5. Evacuate and recharge the system. Refer to Refrigerant Recovery and Recharging.