Orifice Tube Replacement - Escort, Exp, Tempo & Topaz
- Ford Fixed Orifice Tube (FFOT) is located in condenser-to-evaporator liquid refrigerant line near condenser. Disconnect battery negative cable. Discharge A/C system using approved refrigerant recovery/recycling equipment. Remove liquid line.
- To remove liquid line, fit appropriate spring lock spring lock coupling clamp to line. See Fig 1 . Close clamp and push into opening side of cage to expand garter spring and release female fitting. After garter spring is expanded, pull coupling apart. See SPRING LOCK COUPLING CLAMP table.
- Locate orifice tube in metal portion of liquid line (3 indented notches or circular depressions). Note angular positions of liquid line ends for reassembly. Cut a 2 1/2" (63.5 mm) section from tube at orifice location. Do not cut closer that 1" (25.4 mm) section from start of bend in liquid line.
- Using pliers, carefully remove orifice tube. Flush out liquid line. Lubricate "O" rings with refrigerant oil. Assemble orifice tube kit on liquid line. See Fig 2 . Ensure proper orifice tube is used. See ORIFICE TUBE IDENTIFICATION table.
- Ensure flow direction arrow is pointed at evaporator. While holding hex of liquid line in a vise, tighten each compression nut to 65-70 ft. lbs. (88-95 N.m). To complete installation, reverse removal procedure.
SPRING LOCK COUPLING CLAMP
| Refrigerant Line (Diameter In Inches) | Part Number |
|---|---|
| 3/8 | T81P-19623-G1 |
| 1/2 | T81P-19623-G2 |
| 5/8 | T83P-19623-C |
| 3/4 | T85L-19623-A |
NOTE:
The Probe FFOT is not replaceable, the liquid line must be replaced as a unit.