Refrigerant Line Coupler: Operation
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Dodge Dakota. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
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 clips are installed over the two connected coupler halves at the factory for added blowoff protection.