HELP. . . A/C Expansion Valve Removal/Installation - United Bimmer Community

**BostonGreen318** · 07-02-2011, 07:23 PM

After replacing my A/C compressor (Saiko Seiki equivalent) and receiver dryer on my ’94 e36 (08/1994), the local shop refilled the system with refrigerant and retested the PSI levels. The PSI levels raised from 110/110 to 125/150, which led the technician to advise expansion valve replacement. So, I ordered the part from Pelican.com (#64118384379) and had the system evacuated again.

Following that, I removed the glove compartment and glove compartment support frame back at home. Next, the two screws supporting the right-side control module carrier were removed and the plastic valve cover was removed afterwards, finally exposing the valve itself. The flange bolt on the top of expansion valve was exceedingly difficult to loosen due to excessive corrosion. It was at this point that I hit a wall. I’m not sure as to how to proceed regarding the removal of the expansion valve mounting screws (if there are any, even). The copper pipes that extend out from engine compartment really inhibit any movement of the valve itself. Any advice as to how to proceed will be greatly welcomed. Thanks.

**BostonGreen318** · 07-05-2011, 08:04 AM

So far, I've come up empty handed in locating any information online about expansion valve removal for an e36. Since the description in the Bentley is so scant, the fine members of this forum are my last prospect before turning the job over to a "professional."

I did, however, discover a diagram on the Real OEM site. Under the "Heater and Air Conditioning" category, there is the "Heater/Radiator/WDEN Cable" subgrouping. The diagram can be seen at this address:

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts...55&hg=64&fg=15

The part in question is listed as "#3" and is held down by what appears to be two bolts. The first bolt (#15, Fillister head with washer) secures the set of copper pipes against the valve. The second bolt (#5, Threaded bolt), which is the part I can't seem to remove (or locate for that matter), secures the valve to its base.

It's been in the mid-nineties here in central NC with 100% humidity and I've never sweat like this before in my life. Any advice would be a blessing. Thank you!