Ford Mustang (1999-2004) Service Manual: Spring Lock Coupling

The spring lock coupling is a refrigerant line coupling held together by a garter spring inside a circular cage.

• When the coupling is connected together, the flared end of the female fitting slips behind the garter spring inside the cage of the male fitting.
• The garter spring and cage then prevent the flared end of the female fitting from pulling out of the cage.
• Three O-ring seals are used to seal between the two halves of the A/C condenser core couplings. All other couplings have two O-ring seals.
• Use only the O-ring seals listed in the Ford Master Parts Catalog for the spring lock coupling.
• A plastic indicator ring is used on the spring lock couplings of the A/C evaporator core to indicate, during vehicle assembly, that the coupling is connected. Once the coupling is connected, the indicator ring is no longer necessary but will remain captive by the coupling near the cage opening.
• The indicator ring may also be used during repair operations to indicate connection of the coupling.
• An A/C tube lock coupling clip (19E746) may be used to secure the coupling but is not required.

Service Gauge Port Valves

The high-pressure service gauge port valve is located on the A/C manifold and tube.

The low pressure service gauge port valve is located on the suction accumulator.

The fitting is an integral part of the refrigeration line or component.

• Special couplings are required for both the high side and low side service gauge ports.
• A new Schrader-type valve core can be installed if the seal leaks.
• Always install the A/C charging valve cap (19D702) on the service gauge port valves after repairing the refrigerant system.