Where is the orifice tube located?
The orifice tube is a small fixed throttling device in automotive air conditioning systems, and it is generally placed on the high-pressure side of the system, between the condenser and the evaporator. Its exact location varies by vehicle, but it is typically found in the liquid line or within an expansion-device assembly.
Overview of the orifice tube’s location
The orifice tube regulates refrigerant flow as it moves from the condenser to the evaporator. In most cars that use an orifice-tube expansion device, the tube sits in the high-pressure liquid line after the condenser. In many designs, it is housed inside the receiver-drier (also called the accumulator) assembly or inside a dedicated expansion-tube housing near the evaporator core.
The precise placement depends on the vehicle’s design. Some models place the orifice tube inline in the line before the evaporator, while others integrate it into the receiver-drier or a component mounted near the dash/evaporator housing. Always consult the service manual for model-specific details.
Common locations by design
These are the typical configurations you might encounter. The exact location is model-dependent, so use the vehicle’s repair documentation to confirm.
- High-pressure liquid line between the condenser and evaporator, often within or just upstream of the receiver-drier assembly.
- Inline in a dedicated expansion-tube housing that sits along the liquid line before the evaporator.
- Embedded within the evaporator housing or related module in some older or compact designs.
Understanding where the orifice tube sits helps technicians diagnose performance issues and plan component repairs, such as replacing the tube alongside the accumulator or evaporator when needed.
Model-specific notes
Because location varies widely, refer to the vehicle’s service manual for exact access points and safety procedures. Accessing or replacing the orifice tube may require removal of panels, hoses, or the dash in some models, and handling refrigerant requires appropriate precautions and equipment.
In practice, when servicing, technicians often inspect the area around the condenser outlet, the receiver-drier, and the line leading to the evaporator to locate the orifice tube or its housing. Visual confirmation and reference to the manufacturer’s diagrams are essential for accuracy.
Summary
For most vehicles with an orifice-tube expansion method, the tube resides on the high-pressure side of the A/C system—between the condenser and the evaporator. The exact placement varies: it may be inside the receiver-drier, within a dedicated expansion-tube housing, or, in some designs, integrated into the evaporator housing. Always verify with model-specific service documentation before attempting inspection or replacement.
