Spring Lock Coupling: Notes
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Mazda B4000, 2002 Mazda B3000, and 2002 Mazda B2300. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The spring lock coupling is a refrigerant line coupling held together by a garter spring inside a circular cage. When the coupling is connected together, the flared end of the female fitting slips behind the garter spring inside the male fitting cage. The garter spring and cage then prevent the flared end of the female fitting from pulling out of the cage.