Wicke Auto Service and Body Co.
Replace Your Car's AC Thermal Expansion Valve or Orifice Tube
Your car or truck's AC system is under extreme pressure and the thermal expansion valve or orifice tube monitors the amount of pressure and the temperature of your A/C system. It calculates the precise amount of refrigerant that can safely go into the evaporator. A failing expansion valve or orifice tube often causes a vehicle's air conditioner to blow hot air.
Replace or Repair
- Expansion Valves: Too much refrigerant causes your evaporator to get too cold whereas too little refrigerant would result in inadequate cooling. The expansion valve is a complex valve that regulates refrigerant flow. This process of metering the refrigerant adjusts the flow according to the temperature of the refrigerant in the evaporator coil. Talk to one of the pro mechanics at Wicke Auto Service and Body Co., as this part can be replaced on its own and does not require the entire replacement of the AC assembly.
- Orifice Tubes: Unlike the expansion valve, the orifice tube is a simple fixed device with no moving parts. It therefore cannot vary the flow of refrigerant into the evaporator, but rather causes a permanent restriction in the system. However, like the expansion valve the orifice tube regulates refrigerant flow through the system and filters debris which may come through in its screen. Often fixing a "bad orifice tube" requires replacing the entire evaporator assembly.
OUR REVIEWS
Jeremiah Kirsch, 07/09/2024Jeff and the entire Wicke team are the epitome of an honest, efficient, and customer-first business, and I would recommend their operation for any car issues! They are well worth the drive across town! I've been taking my older car soley to Wicke for 3+ years now, and each time I left appreciating the great service and no-nonsense, fair price for the work performed. From saftey inspections, tire & windsheild repair, to brake and exhaust issues, each time they have effectively diagnosed the problem, called me before repairs with multiple options and price points, and offered an honest opinion on what I should do considering my car's age and mileage. This includes 2 times where they actually made less money because they gave an honest assesment of what was needed/not needed. Wicke Auto Shop is my trusted shop for any car repairs, and I will continue to go there with all of my vehicles in the future! Their attention to detail (including even putting away my spare tire and jack after a tire repair) does not go unnoticed, and their effeciency to return your car on the same day is quite impressive. Over the last 3 years, Jeff and team have saved me atleast $2000 over multiple issues and kept my car running well. I appreciate all they've done for me and would recommend them to anyone in need of car repair/maintenance. They are a hidden gem in STL!
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