Expansion Block/Orifice Tube: Service and Repair

Expansion Tube:

Expansion Tube Inspection:

Tool Required:
J 26549-E Orifice Tube Remover and Installer or Equivalent

Remove or Disconnect

1. Recover the refrigerant from the system.
2. The retainer from the evaporator case to the evaporator tube.
3. The evaporator tube from the evaporator.
4. The expansion (orifice) tube using J 26549-E.
^ If difficulty is encountered during the removal of a restricted or plugged expansion (orifice) tube, the following procedure is recommended:
- Remove as much of any impacted residue as possible.
- Carefully apply heat with heat gun (hair dryer, epoxy dryer, or equivalent) approximately 7 mm (0.25 inch) from dimples on the inlet pipe. Do not overheat the 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 the switch.

A. While applying heat, use the expansion tube removal tools (J 26549-E) or equivalent to grip the expansion (orifice) tube. Use a turning motion along with a push-pull motion to loosen the impacted expansion (orifice) tube and remove it.

Install or Connect

1. The expansion (orifice) tube using J 26549-E.

Important
^ Install the "shorter screen end" first into the evaporator.
^ Coat O-ring seal with 525 viscosity refrigerant oil.

2. The evaporator tube to the evaporator.

Tighten
^ The evaporator tube to 28 N.m (21 lb ft).

3. The retainer to the evaporator tube to the evaporator cover.
4. Recharge the refrigerant to the system.
^ Check the system for leaks.