Your car or truck's AC system is under extreme pressure and the thermal expansion valve or orifice tube monitors the amount of pressure and the temperature of your A/C system. It calculates the precise amount of refrigerant that can safely go into the evaporator. A failing expansion valve or orifice tube often causes a vehicle's air conditioner to blow hot air.

Replace or Repair

  • Expansion Valves: Too much refrigerant causes your evaporator to get too cold whereas too little refrigerant would result in inadequate cooling. The expansion valve is a complex valve that regulates refrigerant flow. This process of metering the refrigerant adjusts the flow according to the temperature of the refrigerant in the evaporator coil. Talk to one of the pro mechanics at Rick Allen's Auto Repair, as this part can be replaced on its own and does not require the entire replacement of the AC assembly.
  • Orifice Tubes: Unlike the expansion valve, the orifice tube is a simple fixed device with no moving parts. It therefore cannot vary the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator, but rather causes a permanent restriction in the system. However, like the expansion valve the orifice tube regulates refrigerant flow through the system and filters debris which may come through in its screen. Often fixing a "bad orifice tube" requires replacing the entire evaporator assembly.


Partners

ASE (Automotive Service Excellence)
TECH-NET
CARQUEST
IATN (International Automotive Technicians' Network)
Jasper
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What our clients are saying about us

We have established longterm and stable partnerships with various clients thanks to our excellence in solving their automotive needs!

I have known Rick Allen and his team since the 1988 and he has been providing continuous expert service and advice ever since that time. Rick and Mike are the two most honest and knowledgeable car repair men in the world. quotes-image
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I just wanted to reach out to let you know how much I appreciate and depend upon your service and integrity. It's been 23 years now that I've been relying on you to keep my vehicles running, and 20 years since Mike recommended that I buy a Tacoma - thank you Mike! Sometimes, as I am sitting in the waiting area listening to Mike interact with a customer, I am just amazed at his 'triage' skills. Whatever the knowledge level of the client is, Mike is always able to glean information from them and develop an idea of what the issue might be with the vehicle in question. He is incredible. Everyone at the counter is so friendly - Mike, Cheryl, and Michelle! I've just recommended you to friends and they should be calling you soon, I rave about you and how you have taken good care of 'Vinnie', my truck for so many years! Have a joyous, fun-filled Christmas! I'll see you on the 2nd.quotes-image
, 01/02/2024