AC Orifice Tube

Replace the AC orifice tube located in the liquid line between the condenser and evaporator to restore proper refrigerant flow and AC system performance.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• AC orifice tube × 1 — Use OEM specification
• AC system O-rings (liquid line fittings) × 2 — Use OEM specification
• PAG oil (compatible with R-134a or R-1234yf) × 1 — ND-11 for factory systems

Fluids

• R-134a or R-1234yf refrigerant (per system label)

Preparation

1. Verify the vehicle's refrigerant type from the underhood AC system label (R-134a or R-1234yf)
2. Ensure AC recovery machine is certified for the refrigerant type in this vehicle
3. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
4. Allow engine to cool completely if recently run
5. Open hood and secure with prop rod

Procedure

1. 1

   Recover refrigerant from AC system
   Connect AC recovery machine to the low and high side service ports. Follow machine instructions to completely recover all refrigerant from the system. Record the amount recovered for recharge reference. Wait until system pressure reaches atmospheric pressure (0 psig).
2. 2

   Locate the orifice tube
   The orifice tube is located in the liquid line between the condenser and evaporator. On the 2018-2024 Camry, access is from the engine bay. Trace the smaller diameter AC line from the condenser outlet (passenger side of radiator) toward the firewall. The orifice tube is typically located in this line near the firewall, identifiable by a slight bulge or crimped section in the aluminum tubing.
3. 3

   Disconnect the liquid line at the orifice tube location
   Using a 10mm socket, remove the bolt securing the liquid line fitting nearest to the orifice tube location (typically at the evaporator inlet). Carefully separate the fitting. Cap or plug the open lines immediately to prevent moisture and debris entry. Inspect and discard the old O-rings.
   ⚠Even after recovery, residual refrigerant may escape. Ensure adequate ventilation and wear safety glasses.
4. 4

   Remove the old orifice tube
   Insert the orifice tube removal tool into the open end of the liquid line where the tube is located. The tool grips the tube's internal mesh screen. Gently pull and twist to extract the orifice tube. If the tube breaks (common), use a pick tool or needle-nose pliers to carefully remove all remaining pieces and debris. Inspect the line opening to ensure it is completely clear.
5. 5

   Inspect the removed orifice tube
   Examine the old orifice tube and screen for metal shavings, debris, or black residue. Excessive contamination indicates compressor failure or system contamination. If significant debris is present, the system may require flushing and the compressor should be inspected before proceeding.
   ⚠Metal debris in the orifice tube indicates compressor damage. Installing a new tube without addressing the root cause will result in rapid failure.
6. 6

   Clean the line and prepare new orifice tube
   Use a clean, lint-free shop towel to wipe the inside of the liquid line opening, removing any residual debris or oil. Inspect the new orifice tube to identify the inlet side (usually marked with a dimple or arrow pointing toward refrigerant flow direction - from condenser to evaporator). Coat the new orifice tube O-rings lightly with the specified PAG oil.
7. 7

   Install the new orifice tube
   Carefully insert the new orifice tube into the liquid line with the correct orientation (inlet toward condenser, outlet toward evaporator). Push firmly until the tube seats completely and the retaining tabs or O-rings engage. The tube should be flush with or slightly recessed from the line opening. Do not force or damage the mesh screen.
8. 8

   Install new O-rings on line fittings
   Inspect the liquid line fittings for damage or corrosion. Install new O-rings of the correct size on both sides of the connection. Coat each O-ring with a thin layer of the specified PAG oil to ensure proper sealing and prevent damage during installation.
9. 9

   Reconnect the liquid line
   Align the liquid line fittings carefully, ensuring the O-rings remain properly seated. Hand-thread the connection bolt to prevent cross-threading. Once hand-tight, use a torque wrench to tighten the line fitting bolt to specification. Add the specified amount of PAG oil to the system through the service port (typically 1-2 oz to replace oil lost during service - consult service manual for exact amount).
   Torque spec

   AC Line Fittings20 Nm (15 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Evacuate the AC system
    Connect the AC service machine to both high and low side service ports. Run a vacuum cycle for at least 30 minutes to remove all air and moisture from the system. The system should hold a vacuum of at least 29 inches Hg. Monitor for vacuum decay; any loss indicates a leak that must be repaired before recharging.
    ⚠Inadequate evacuation will leave moisture in the system, which can freeze at the orifice tube and damage the compressor.
11. 11

    Recharge the AC system
    Using the AC service machine, recharge the system with the correct type and amount of refrigerant as specified on the underhood label (typically 15-18 oz for this vehicle, but verify). Do not overcharge. Follow the machine's instructions for proper charging procedure. Disconnect the service machine when complete.

Reassembly

1. Verify all AC line connections are secure and torqued to specification
2. Ensure no tools or materials are left in the engine bay
3. Close the hood

Verification

• Start the engine and turn AC to maximum cooling with fan on high
• Allow system to run for 5 minutes and verify cold air output from vents (should be 35-45°F at center vents)
• Check that AC compressor engages and cycles normally
• Inspect all AC line connections for signs of refrigerant leaks (oil residue or frost formation)
• Use a leak detector or soap solution to verify connections are leak-free
• Monitor AC performance over the next few days to ensure consistent cooling

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