A/C Spring Lock Coupling (Refrigerant System)
A/C SPRING LOCK COUPLINGThe spring lock coupling is a refrigerant line coupling held together by a garter spring inside a circular cage. When the coupling is connected together, the flared end of the female fitting slips behind the garter spring inside the male fitting cage. The garter spring and cage then prevent the flared end of the female fitting from pulling out of the cage.
Disconnect
1. Remove the A/C tube lock coupling clip (if equipped).
2. Fit appropriate SST to the spring lock coupling.
3. Push the tool into the cage opening to release the female fitting from the A/C tube lock coupling spring.
4. Pull the spring lock coupling fittings apart.
CAUTION: Do not use metal tools to remove the O-ring tools. They can cause axial scratches across the O-ring grooves resulting in refrigerant leaks.
5. Remove the O-ring seals with a non-metallic tool.
- There are three O-ring seals required for the A/C condenser core couplings.
- There are two O-ring seals for all other refrigerant tube couplings.
CAUTION: Do not use a screwdriver or similar tool to remove the A/C tube lock coupling spring; this can cause axial scratches across the O-ring grooves resulting in refrigerant leaks.
6. Remove the A/C tube lock coupling spring with a small hooked wire.
Cleaning
1. Fabricate a cleaning tool from a 1/8 inch diameter brazing rod.
2. Cut an abrasive pad with the dimensions corresponding to the coupling size.
3. Assemble the pad to the tool.
4. Coat the abrasive pad with R134a refrigerant oil.
5. Roll the pad on the tool and install it in a variable speed motor drill.
CAUTION: Maintain low speed drill rotation when inserting or removing the cleaning tool to prevent axial scratches which may cause future leaks.
6. Polish for 1 minute at moderate speed (less than 1500 rpm) or until the surface is clean and free of scratches or debris.
7. Clean the fitting with a lint-free cloth.
8. Inspect the surface for grooves or scratches. If grooves and scratches are still present, replace the component.
9. Clean the O-ring grooves with a 300 mm (12 inch) length of natural fiber string.
- Loop the string around the grooves and pull the string back and forth.
10. Remove any debris from the grooves with a lint-free cloth.
Connect
1. Install the A/C tube lock coupling spring.
2. Lubricate the inside of the coupling with refrigerant compressor oil (R-134a systems or equivalent).
CAUTION: Use only new green O-rings. The use of any O-ring seals other than specified may result in intermittent leakage during vehicle operation.
3. Install the O-ring seals.
- Lubricate the O-ring seals with refrigerant compressor oil (R-134a systems or equivalent).
4. Connect the spring lock coupling fittings with a twisting motion until the A/C tube lock coupling spring snaps over the flared end of the female fitting.
5. Install the A/C tube lock coupling clip.
