GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 26549-E Orifice Tube Remover

Removal Procedure

  1. Remove the condenser tube. Refer to Condenser Tube Replacement .
  2. Use J 26549-E in order to remove the expansion (orifice) tube.

  3. Object Number: 493641  Size: SH

    Important: DO NOT use any solvents or chemicals to clean the porous plastic inlet filter of the expansion (orifice) tube .

  4. Inspect the expansion (orifice) tube for the following conditions and clean or replace with a new tube as indicated:
  5. • Broken plastic frame (1); replace the tube.
    • Inlet filter (3) damaged or plugged with fine gritty material; replace the tube.
    • Inlet filter (3) coated with metal chips, flakes, or slivers; remove the coating with low pressure shop air ONLY and reuse if the filter is cleaned satisfactorily. Do NOT reuse the O-ring seals (2).

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 493641  Size: SH

    Important: Lubricate the new O-ring seal (2) with mineral base 525 viscosity refrigerant oil.

  1. If you reuse the orifice tube, install the new O-ring seals (2).
  2. Carefully grasp the edge of the expansion (orifice) tube (1) without touching the inlet filter (3) and insert the expansion tube into the condenser tube until fully seated.
  3. Install the condenser tube. Refer to Condenser Tube Replacement .