Used TXV?

[Tim]

Only after spending a fortune and 4 months trying to figure out what was wrong did I stumble on the problem with my A/C.

The stupid TXV (thermostatic expansion valve) is an aftermarket, crappy chinese one which requires an adapter to fit my system. Turns out my problem was with this adapter. It doesn't seal properly (design flaw) and the freon leaks out. And I wasted $40 on this piece of junk.

So I went to the junkyard, and got me the right valve from a Festiva.

At the time, the system was untouched and under pressure, so I presume everything worked before the car was scrapped.

Do these valves go bad over time? Does the release of pressure from the system cause damage to the valve?

I'd like to know whether this used valve has a reasonable chance of working before I go through the hassle of putting it in and charging the system.


Regards,

Tim

[gomer]

I don't know of any tests to ensure the expansion valve is OK ... they do go bad on their own but the usual culprit is dirt and debris from a failed compressor ... I would buy a new expansion valve and drier from a wholesale AC supplier...

[Tim]

I know I should buy new, but I haven't got much money, and I have to settle for used.

The whole A/C system is built from used parts, taken from about a dozen Festivas. I kept swapping stuff out until it worked. When it was charged up, and before the Freon could leak out, I had the system blowing out ice cold air.


Regards,

Tim