What happens if the orifice tube of an AC unit fails?

The AC expansion valve and orifice tube work together to regulate the flow of the AC system. If either component fails or has an issue, it can disturb the performance of the AC system, which can cause it to underperform.

Can a bad or failing orifice tube cause a car to freeze?

If the AC evaporator or orifice tube malfunctions, it can cause refrigerant to flow unmetered through the vehicle’s AC system. This can cause the evaporator to freeze over, or frost to form or come from the vehicle’s AC vents.

What happens when a clutch orifice tube is clogged?

If the filter’s filled with white or brownish debris, the desiccant bag in the accumulator has broken, sending desiccant throughout the system. This restriction will cause high high side system pressures. Restrictions result in frost forming around the restricted area.

Can a bad expansion valve cause a compressor to run?

A constantly running compressor is another symptom of a possible problem with the AC expansion valve. If the AC expansion valve fails or sticks open, it will cause the compressor to pump refrigerant through the vehicle’s AC system, even when it may be undesirable for it to do so.

Can a bad expansion valve cause an AC compressor to run?

AC compressor constantly running. A constantly running compressor is another symptom of a possible problem with the AC expansion valve. If the AC expansion valve fails or sticks open, it will cause the compressor to pump refrigerant through the vehicle’s AC system, even when it may be undesirable for it to do so.

What should the suction pressure be on a Dodge Ram?

Normal suction pressure varies from 35 PSIG to 45 PSIG depending on the ambient temperature. The discharge pressure should be anywhere (RED GAUGE) from 250 PSIG to 350 PSIG, again depending on the ambient temperature. Check your connections at the compressure, the system should have a safety switch somewhere.

Can a liquid line be replaced on an orifice tube?

Ive read that its not replaceable, and the liquid line has to be replaced, If thats true, then, no problem, i’ll get one, just seems odd to have to replace the whole line just to replace orifice well the orifice is fixed on my truck, so the liquid line had to be replaced…was only 24.00 at the dealer, which surprised me

What to do if your Dodge Ram has an AC problem?

Any recommendation for a good mechanic or shop in Sac Vacaville area would also be appreciated. Sounds like you still have something blocking the system. You need to remove the orfice tube and have the system flushed to get the debris out of it. Then get an OEM orfice tube. Install, and evacuate the system; recharge, and you should be G2G.

What causes a Dodge Ram to go into vacuum?

A restricted orifice tube filter will not cause the low side to go into vacuum, the low pressure cutoff switch on mopars will disable the compressor when low pressure reaches 18psi to avoid freeze ups and running the compressor dry. Low side pressure can vary from 30-55psi, High from 150-325, both depending on ambient temp.

How do you remove the orifice tube in an evaporator?

Remove the orifice tube using needle nose pliers or removal tool. Note the orientation of the orifice tube. It must go back in the same way. Lubricate the O-rings on the new orifice tube with AC oil. Insert the new orifice tube into the evaporator or LLOT or SLOT.

Where is the filter on a clogged orifice tube?

Clogged Orifice Tube. A fixed orifice tube contains a small brass tube of a fixed diameter encased in a plastic case. The case contains a debris catching filter at each end. It’s located between the condenser and the evaporator core.

Where is the orifice tube in an AC car?

AC accumulator orifice tube systems are found in some automobiles while other vehicles include an expansion valve in place of the orifice tube and a receiver-drier instead of the accumulator. Problems/Symptoms of a Bad Accumulator and Orifice Tube. The accumulator when exposed to the atmosphere allows moisture to enter the system.

What causes an orifice tube to fail in an AC system?

Most orifice tubes fail due to contamination in the AC system due to sealer, oil degradation or mechanical deterioration. Replacing a plugged orifice tube without solving the root problem will result in another plugged orifice tube.

How do you replace the orifice tube in a car?

Replacing the orifice tube requires you to completely evacuate the AC system and disconnect the high pressure liquid line. It’s not a fun job. • Replacement orifice of the exact same color and part number as the old unit Buy or rent a refrigerant recovery machine. Attach the manifold gauge set to the high and low side ports on your car’s AC system

Where is the orifice tube located in Ricks free auto?

Lubricate the O-rings on the new orifice tube with AC oil. Insert the new orifice tube into the evaporator or LLOT or SLOT. Reconnect the liquid line to the evaporator or condenser and follow factory specs for tightening (if required).