Refrigerant Circuit Components: RESTRICTOR

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2016 Volkswagen Beetle, 2015 Volkswagen Beetle, 2014 Volkswagen Beetle, and 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CAUTION:

Non-approved tools or materials such as leak sealing additives can cause damage or malfunctions in the system.

Only use tools and materials approved by the manufacturer.

The warranty is voided if non-approved tools or materials are used.

All components of the refrigerant circuit submitted for quality observation are always to be sealed (use original sealing caps of original part).
Replace damaged or leaking components of refrigerant circuit, refer to COMPONENTS, REPLACING .
To date, the original parts (compressor, reservoir, receiver/dryer, evaporator and condenser) have been filled with nitrogen gas. This charge is being gradually discontinued. There is little or no pressure equalization when removing the sealing plugs from the original part.

The restrictor creates a constriction. This restriction reduces the flow and creates high and low pressure sides in the refrigerant circuit. Before the restrictor the refrigerant which is under a higher pressure is warm. After the restrictor the refrigerant which is under a low pressure is cold. Before the restriction there is a strainer for contaminants and after the restriction there is a strainer, to atomize the refrigerant before it reaches the evaporator.

Fig 1: Identifying Restrictor

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.

NOTE:

Arrow -A- on restrictor points to evaporator.

Replace after each opening of the circuit.

Note different versions.