Refrigerant Line Coupler: Operation
The spring-lock coupler is held together by a garter spring inside a circular cage on the male half of the fitting ( Fig 1 ).- When the two coupler halves are connected, the flared end of the female fitting slips behind the garter spring inside the cage on the male fitting. The garter spring and cage prevent the flared end of the female fitting from pulling out of the cage.
Two O-rings on the male half of the fitting are used to seal the connection. These O-rings are compatible with R-134a refrigerant and must be replaced with O-rings made of the same material.
Secondary retaining clips are installed over the connected couplers for added protection. In addition, some models have a plastic ring that is: used at the factory as a visual indicator to confirm that these couplers are connected. After the coupler is connected, the plastic indicator ring is no longer required; however, it will remain on the refrigerant line near the coupler cage.