Why Inspect the TXV?

Many domestic and import vehicles use a Thermal Expansion Valve (TXV). Our Technical Support Department has received numerous calls on why it is necessary to clean or replace the expansion valve when performing a compressor replacement. We realize that the location of the TXV, often times, makes it difficult to clean or replace as most vehicles require the removal of the evaporator housing. In some cases accessing the valve could take several hours.

If you have a vehicle with a compressor failure, it is very likely that some contamination has reached the expansion valve. We strongly recommend that the expansion valve be removed for inspection, cleaning and/or replacing because:

· Warranty requires the inspection of the TXV inlet port and inlet screen for contaminants.

· Warranty requires flushing of the evaporator. It will be necessary to remove the expansion valve in order to flush through the evaporator.

· The expansion valve opening is as small as .080" diameter. Contaminates in the system can easily restrict or block the TXV inlet passage.

· A plugged expansion valve will cause a restriction that will block the oil flow back to the compressor. If a compressor lacks lubrication it will eventually lead to a failure.