Dakota 2WD V6-239 3.9L Magnum (1996)
Expansion Block/Orifice Tube: Locations
The fixed orifice tube is located in the outlet line of the condenser. It has filter screens on the inlet and outlet ends of the tube body. The filter screens act
as a strainer for the liquid refrigerant flowing through the fixed orifice opening. 0-rings, on the tube body, prevent the high pressure liquid refrigerant
from bypassing the orifice. Adjustments cannot be made to the fixed orifice tube. If it becomes clogged or damaged, replace the fixed orifice tube.
The fixed orifice tube assembly is the restriction between the high and low pressure liquid refrigerant. It meters the flow of liquid refrigerant into the
evaporator core. Minimum evaporator temperature is controlled by sensing the pressure within the evaporator with a pressure-operated electric cycling
clutch switch. The pressure switch controls compressor operation as necessary to prevent evaporator freeze-up.
The fixed orifice tube should be replaced whenever a compressor is replaced for lack of performance (internal damage).
