Ac/condenser hard lines

[x1n54n3x]

This is probably trivial but I've tried looking around and my book doesn't detail exactly how to disconnect the hard lines running from the evaporator inlet to and from the condenser in front of the radiator. The lines look like they fit into each other and have a metal clip to ensure they stay put, but after removal of the clips, I'm confused as to how they come apart, unless I just don't have the right tool. Could someone steer me in the right direction? The round fittings in the photo are what I'm talking about for reference. Thanks.

 

[md21722]

Inside that round housing is a garter spring. You can buy the quick disconnect tool set for about $13 from Advance. Basically the tool is a cage that presses in on that spring and pops it over the flanged fitting so you can easily separate the lines. Be sure that you are working on an empty system (no pressure).

http://shop.advanceautoparts.com/p/...t-ac501/9010298-P?searchTerm=quick+disconnect

 

[Overland]

Quick disconnect tools can also be found in metal for pretty cheap, if you ever expect to use them more than once or twice.

 

[x1n54n3x]

Picked this guy up at my local Napa, but can't for the life of me get the first line loose. Not sure if the tool is having a hard time getting under that spring or what, but it's not budging. Any tips or tricks?

 

[md21722]

Sometimes the garter springs get stuck from dirt and corrosion. You may find it necessary to spray penetrant in there to loosen them up. A pick to clean out any dirt can help too.

 

[x1n54n3x]

I sprayed em down, I guess I'll just let them sit for a little while. Seems like I'm using too much muscle and I'm afraid of bending a line. Thanks md

 

[iwannadie]

I've used a small hammer and with light taps got the tool to work its way in. Sometimes that little bit of impact action Vs. static pressure works wonders but of course be very careful as it is a pressurized system.

Or, try twisting the tool around as you apply pressure to help work the tool in along with some spray.

 

[md21722]

The system should be pressurized when you are separating these lines. You will have one big cloud of oil and refrigerant and then have to clean up all the oil that blew out.

 

[iwannadie]

The system should be pressurized when you are separating these lines. You will have one big cloud of oil and refrigerant and then have to clean up all the oil that blew out.

I was thinking more of a bad swing with a hammer hitting the hard line and damaging it without realizing...

 

[md21722]

Ah yes, and I see that I missed the word NOT in my above post.. should NOT be pressurized.

 

[x1n54n3x]

I got the top line off, however the bottom one is proving to be harder to get leverage for. I'll try some light taps once I get back home from work this afternoon.

@md- do you mean depressurized? Everything I've read has told me to evacuate the system prior to pulling these lines apart...not to mention my ac wasn't really working and the pressure was low to begin with. At any rate, the system is depressurized right now.

edit: I see you just corrected yourself.

 

[md21722]

Its easier if you remove the battery.

 

[x1n54n3x]

My engine bay is completely torn apart, I'm in the process of removing the radiator/header panel to yank the entire drivetrain out in the next couple of days.