Expansion Block/Orifice Tube: Service and Repair
EXPANSION (ORIFICE) TUBE REPLACEMENTTOOLS REQUIRED
- J 26549-E Orifice Tube Remover and Installer or Equivalent
- J 39400-A Halogen Leak Detector
REMOVAL PROCEDURE
1. Recover the refrigerant from the system. Refer to Refrigerant Recovery and Recharging.
2. Remove the evaporator tube from the evaporator (1).
3. Remove the O-ring seal and discard.
4. Use the J 26549-E in order to remove the expansion (orifice) tube (2).
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.
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.
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.
IMPORTANT: 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
1. Use the J 26549-E in order to install the expansion (orifice) tube (2).
IMPORTANT: Install the shorter screen end of the expansion (orifice) tube into the evaporator first.
2. Coat the new O-ring seal with 525 viscosity refrigerant oil.
3. Install the new O-ring seal.
4. Install the evaporator tube to the evaporator (1).
NOTE: Refer to Fastener Notice in Service Precautions. Vehicle Damage Warnings
Tighten
Tighten the evaporator tube to.............................28 N.m (21 lb ft).
5. Evacuate and recharge the A/C system. Refer to Refrigerant Recovery and Recharging.
6. Leak test the fittings components using the J 39400-A.