Expansion Block/Orifice Tube: Service and Repair

A/C Evaporator Line And Expansion Tube To Condenser:

Tools Required:
AC-1002, J-26549-D Expansion Tube Remover.
J-38100-C A/C Refrigerant Recover and Recycling Station.

REMOVE OR DISCONNECT
1. Recover refrigerant.
2. Loosen nut and separate liquid line from condenser outlet pipe.
3. Carefully remove expansion tube with needle-nosed pliers, tools AC-1002, J-26549-D or equivalent.
^ In the event that difficulty is encountered during the removal of a restricted or plugged expansion tube (orifice), the following procedure is recommended:
A. Remove as much of any impacted residue as possible.
B. Carefully apply heat with heat gun (hair drier, epoxy drier or equivalent) approximately 7 mm (1/4 inch) from dimples on inlet pipe. Do not overheat pipe.

NOTICE: If the system has a pressure switch near the expansion tube location, it should be removed prior to heating the pipe to avoid damage to switch.

C. While applying heat, use expansion tube removal tools AC-1002, J-26349-C or equivalent to grip the expansion tube. Use a turning motion along with a push-pull motion to loosen to the impacted expansion tube and remove it.

INSTALL OR CONNECT
1. New expansion tube, with short screen toward the evaporator.
2. Liquid line to condenser outlet pipe. Tighten liquid line nut to 23 Nm (18 lbs. ft.).
3. Evacuate and recharge A/C system with 1.02 kg (2.25 lbs.) of R-12.
4. Leak test.