A/C Orifice Tube
WARNING:
The A/C liquid line between the A/C condenser and the A/C orifice tube can become hot enough to burn the skin. Use extreme caution when performing the following test to prevent possible personal injury.
NOTE:
The A/C orifice tube can be checked for proper operation using the following procedure. However, the A/C orifice tube is only serviced as a part of the A/C liquid line. If the results of this test indicate that the A/C orifice tube is obstructed or missing, the A/C liquid line must be replaced.
- Confirm that the refrigerant system is properly charged. See Heating and Air Conditioning - Diagnosis and Testing .
- Start the engine. Turn on the A/C system and confirm that the compressor clutch is engaged.
- Allow the A/C system to operate for five minutes.
- Lightly and cautiously touch the A/C liquid line near the condenser outlet at the front of the engine compartment. The A/C liquid line should be hot to the touch.
- Touch the A/C liquid line near the evaporator inlet at the rear of the engine compartment. The A/C liquid line should be cold to the touch.
- If there is a distinct temperature differential between the two ends of the A/C liquid line, the A/C orifice tube is in good condition. If there is little or no detectable temperature differential between the two ends of the A/C liquid line, the A/C orifice tube is inoperative and the A/C liquid line must be replaced. See Heating and Air Conditioning/Plumbing/LINE, A/C Liquid - Removal .