OEM 2002 Chevrolet Corvette A/C Orifice Tube

2002 Chevrolet Corvette Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How to replace the A/C Orifice Tube in an A/C system on 2002 Chevrolet Corvette?

  A: The first step to change the expansion (A/C Orifice Tube) requires recovering the refrigerant from the A/C system. Remove the front evaporator tube to rear evaporator tube retaining bolt then immediately cover the open rear evaporator tube with tape because contamination poses a threat. Discussion of the front evaporator tube with the rear evaporator tube leads to removal of the O-ring and application of caps or tape to protect the open front evaporator tube. You can use the A/C Orifice Tube Remover (J 26549-E) to take out the A/C orifice tube before thoroughly checking it for damaged or broken plastic frames or torn and damaged filter screen or brass A/C orifice tube or plugged orifices. Replace the tube when necessary. The filter screen can be cleaned with low pressure shop air when metallic debris coats its surface for possible reuse if the cleaning proves satisfactory. The technician must replace the O-ring before installing the re-used A/C orifice tube. Intellectually install the front evaporator tube after removing its cap or tape by placing it in position with the short filter-containing side first. First remove tape or cap from the rear evaporator tube then use a cloth to wipe down both tubes as well as their sealing points. Mineral base 525 viscosity refrigerant oil should be applied gently to the O-ring seal as part of the installation process but must not get inside the refrigerant system. Place the new O-ring seal onto the front evaporator tube but stop it before complete seating while leaving oil on a specific area according to the indicator only. Insert the front evaporator tube into the rear evaporator tube before attaching the retaining bolt and tightening it to 25 N.m (18 lb ft). The procedure concludes by evacuating the A/C system followed by recharging it while performing a leak test on the fittings with the Halogen Leak Detector (J 39400-A).