Coupler HVAC: Service and Repair

Special Tools:

Special Tools

REMOVAL
1. Discharge the A/C system.





2. Remove the A/C tube lock coupling clip.





3. Fit the required size of Spring Lock Coupling Disconnect Tool to the refrigerant line so the tool can enter the cage opening to release the A/C tube lock coupling spring.





4. Push the tool into the cage opening to release the female fitting from the A/C tube lock coupling spring.





5. Pull the spring lock coupling fittings apart.





6. Remove the tool from the disconnected spring lock coupling.

INSTALLATION





1. Check for a missing or damaged A/C tube lock coupling spring. A damaged spring can be removed with a small hooked wire.

2. Clean the fittings.





3. On the (A) female spring lock coupling, check the inside of each fitting for scratches, corrosion, or debris from deteriorated (B) O-rings.

NOTE: Remove any surface residue from the inside of the coupling by polishing with 400-grit emery cloth or equivalent. Polish the surface by using a twisting motion so that any scratches made will not cross the O-ring sealing surface. Finish polishing with 600-grit emery cloth or equivalent. Remove all polishing residue from the fitting with a lint free cloth.





4. Use (A) plastic O-ring tool supplied in O-ring kit or equivalent to remove the (B) O-ring seals from the male fitting.

NOTE: Do not use metal O-ring tools. They can cause axial scratches across the O-ring grooves resulting in refrigerant leakage.

5. Install the O-ring seals.

NOTE: Use only specified O-ring seals. Any O-ring seal other than the one specified may allow the connection to leak intermittently during vehicle operation.

NOTE: Lubricate the new O-ring seals with Motorcraft Refrigerant Oil YN-12b or equivalent meeting Ford specification WSH-M1C231-B.

6. Lubricate the male fitting and O-ring seals and the inside of the female fitting.

NOTE: Use Motorcraft Refrigerant Oil YN-12b or equivalent meeting Ford specification WSH-M1C231-B.

7. Install the plastic indicator ring into the cage opening if the indicator ring is to be used.
8. Fit the female fitting to the male fitting and push with a twisting motion until the A/C tube lock coupling spring snaps over the flared end of the female fitting.

NOTE: If the plastic indicator ring is used, it will snap out of the cage opening when the coupling is connected to indicate engagement.

9. If the indicator ring is not used, check the coupling engagement by making sure the A/C tube lock coupling spring is over the flared end of the fitting.
10. Charge the A/C system.