Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
SYS.OK|MANUAL.DBβ LIVE
HOMESERVICE MANUALSFORD1992TEMPO LX, 2.3 X, STANDARDREPAIR AND DIAGNOSIS (SINGLE PAGE)HEATING, VENTILATION & A/C (HVAC)GENERAL SERVICINGA/C SYSTEM GENERAL SERVICINGORIFICE TUBE REPLACEMENT - ALL OTHERREMOVAL
1992 Ford Tempo LX, 2.3 X, Standard
Orifice Tube Replacement - All Other: Removal
1992 Ford Tempo LX, 2.3 X, StandardSECTION Removal
- Orifice tube is located in condenser-to-evaporator liquid refrigerant line near condenser by the 3 indented notches or circular depression in the line. See Fig 1 .
- Disconnect negative battery cable. Discharge A/C system using approved refrigerant recovery/recycling equipment. To remove liquid line, fit appropriate spring lock coupling clamp on the line. See SPRING LOCK COUPLING CLAMP table earlier in article.
- Close clamp and push into opening side of cage to expand garter spring and release female fitting. After garter spring is expanded, pull coupling apart. See Figure . Remove liquid line.
- Locate orifice tube in metal portion of liquid line (3 indented notches or circular depression). See Fig 1 . Note angle positions of liquid line ends for reassembly. Cut a 2 1/2" (63.5 mm) section from tube at orifice location. DO NOT cut closer than 1" (25.4 mm) from start of bend in liquid line. See Fig 2 .
- Flush out liquid line. Lubricate "O" rings with refrigeration oil. Assemble orifice tube kit on liquid line. See Fig 2 . Ensure replacement orifice tube is the same color as that removed.
- Ensure flow direction arrow is pointed at evaporator and taper on ferrule is toward the nut. While holding hex of liquid line in a vise, tighten each compression nut to 65-70 ft. lbs. (88-95 N.m).
- Reconnect line, using a new "O" ring lubricated with refrigeration oil. Leak test, evacuate and recharge the system. Check system for proper operation.
RENDER: 1.0x
NO RELATED
Recommended Tools & Savings
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.