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Where is the orifice tube on a 2016 GMC Sierra?


Understanding the location of the orifice tube in your vehicle is crucial for effective air conditioning system maintenance and repair. The orifice tube plays a vital role in regulating the flow of refrigerant in the AC system, and knowing where to find it can save you time and effort during repairs. In this article, we will explore the location of the orifice tube on a 2016 GMC Sierra and provide some tips for accessing it.


Location of the Orifice Tube


On the 2016 GMC Sierra, the orifice tube is located in the high-pressure line of the air conditioning system. Specifically, you can find it:



  • Near the evaporator core, which is situated inside the dashboard.

  • In the engine compartment, connected to the liquid line that runs from the condenser to the evaporator.


To access the orifice tube, you will typically need to:



  • Remove the front grille and possibly the bumper to gain better access to the AC lines.

  • Locate the high-pressure line that runs from the condenser to the evaporator.

  • Identify the orifice tube, which is usually housed within a fitting on this line.


Tips for Working with the Orifice Tube


When working on the orifice tube, consider the following tips to ensure a smooth repair process:



  • Safety First: Always wear safety goggles and gloves when working on your vehicle's AC system to protect yourself from refrigerant exposure.

  • Consult the Manual: Refer to the vehicle's service manual for specific instructions and diagrams related to the AC system.

  • Check for Leaks: If you're replacing the orifice tube, it's a good idea to check for any leaks in the system to prevent future issues.


By knowing the location of the orifice tube and following these tips, you can effectively maintain your 2016 GMC Sierra's air conditioning system. If you're unsure or uncomfortable performing the repair yourself, don't hesitate to reach out to a professional auto service for assistance.


Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the orifice tube located on a 2016 Chevy Silverado?


The orifice tube is located on the inlet of the evaporator.



Will AC work without an orifice tube?


The orifice tube allows for a higher flow of R-134 refrigerant during times when more cooling is needed, and a smaller flow of refrigerant when less cooling is needed. This balance of cooling flow is critical for the A/C to operate effectively.



How to clean an orifice tube?


Clean the Orifice and Nozzle Body

  1. Open the lid and lock it in the upright position.
  2. Remove the nozzle body [2] from the inlet body [1].
  3. Remove the orifice [1] from the nozzle body.
  4. Submerge the orifice and nozzle body into an ultrasonic cleaner filled with white vinegar.



Where is the orifice tube located?


Have a question about the orifice tube location. It is located at the outlet of the condenser. As the liquid turns into gas, it has to go through a tube almost 4 feet before getting to the evaporator.



When would it be necessary to replace an orifice tube?


If the A/C loop is contaminated, the orifice tube will become clogged, and you will need to replace the orifice tube. The orifice tube must always be replaced when another important part of the A/C loop is replaced (compressor, condenser, evaporator, or accumulator)



Which line has the orifice tube?


Its exact location can vary depending on the vehicle's make and model, but you can typically find the orifice tube between the condenser and the evaporator in the small liquid line.



How do I know if my Chevy orifice tube is bad?


4 Bad Orifice Tube Symptoms To Watch Out For

  • The Compressor Is Not Able To Pull In The Specified Amount Of Refrigerant.
  • An Intermittent Loss Of Air Conditioning.
  • A Loud Hiss Coming From Inside The A/C System.
  • You Notice Bubbles Within The Sight Glass.
  • Conclusion.



Where are most orifices located?


In a typical mammalian body such as the human body, the external body orifices are:

  • The nostrils, for breathing and the associated sense of smell.
  • The mouth, for eating, drinking, breathing, and vocalizations such as speech.
  • The ear canals, for the sense of hearing.



What are the symptoms of a clogged orifice tube?


A faulty orifice tube can manifest in several ways. You might notice a significant drop in cooling performance, unusual hissing noises, or even frost on the evaporator.



Can an orifice tube be cleaned?


Submerge the orifice and nozzle body into an ultrasonic cleaner filled with white vinegar. 5. Run the ultrasonic cleaner for 3–5 minutes or until clean.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.