Stratus V6-2.5L VIN H (1997)
Expansion Valve: Description and Operation
The valve is used to meter refrigerant into the evaporator in accordance with cooling requirements. The valve is located in front of the evaporator
coil.
The expansion valve is located on the engine side of the dash panel, near the right shock tower. The expansion valve can fail in three different
positions (open, closed or restricted).
In an Open Position: this will result in a noisy compressor or no cooling. The cause can be a broken spring, broken ball or excessive moisture in
the A/C system. If the spring or ball are found to be defective, replace the expansion valve. If excessive moisture is found in the A/C system,
recycle the refrigerant.
In a Closed Position: There will be low suction pressure and no cooling. This may be caused by a failed power dome or excessive moisture in the
A/C system. If the power dome on the expansion valve is found to be defective replace the expansion valve. If excessive moisture is found recycle
the refrigerant.
A Restricted Orifice: There will be low suction pressure and no cooling. This may be caused by debris in the refrigerant system. If debris is
believed to be the cause, recycle the refrigerant and replace the expansion valve and receiver/drier.
