Coupler HVAC: Description and Operation

SPRING LOCK COUPLING

Spring Lock Coupling:

When disconnecting or connecting spring lock couplings, observe the following.
- When the coupling is connected together, the flared end of the female fitting slips behind the garter spring inside the cage of the male fitting.
- The garter spring and cage then prevent the flared end of the female fitting from pulling out of the cage.
- Three O-ring seals are used to seal between the two halves of the couplings.
- Use only the O-ring seals listed in the Ford Master Parts Catalog for the spring lock coupling.
- A plastic indicator ring is used to indicate, during vehicle assembly, that the coupling is connected. Once the coupling is connected, the indicator ring is no longer necessary but will remain captive by the coupling near the cage opening.
- The indicator ring may also be used during service operations to indicate connection of the coupling.
- An A/C tube lock coupling clip may be used to secure the coupling but is not required.

PEANUT FITTING

Peanut Fitting:

When disconnecting or connecting peanut fittings, observe the following.
- The male and female blocks of the peanut fitting are retained with a nut.
- Support the female fitting with a wrench to prevent twisting of the tubes.
- An O-ring seal is installed around the tube on the male block.
- When correctly assembled, the male and female fittings should be flush.
- Use only the O-ring seal listed in the Ford Master Parts Catalog.

TUBE-O FITTING

Tube-O Fitting:

When disconnecting or connecting tube-O fittings, observe the following.
- The male and female portions of the fitting are retained with a nut.
- Support the female fitting with a wrench to prevent twisting of the tubes when disconnecting.
- An O-ring seal is installed around the tube on the male side of the fitting.
- Use only the O-ring seal listed in the Ford Master Parts Catalog.

Service Guage Port Valves, Part 1:

Service Gauge Port Valves, Part 2:

The high-pressure service gauge port valve is located on the high pressure liquid line.

The low pressure service gauge port valve is located on the evaporator to suction accumulator line.

The fitting is an integral part of the refrigerant line or component.
- R-134a type service couplings are required for both the high side and low side service gauge ports.
- A new Schrader-type valve core can be installed if the seal leaks.
- Always install the A/C charging valve cap on the service gauge port valves after repairing the refrigerant system.