The A/C high pressure pipe on my 2013 XF AWD SC needs to be replaced, as the wiring harness rubbed near the pressure sensor resulting in refrigerant loss. Both ends of the high pressure pipe have a connector with a single nut. I'm just double checking there isn't anything special that needs to be done to separate these connections. I'd appreciate knowing the torque for the nut as well.






You might want to double check your wiring harness isn't rubbing on this pipe like mine did.




Thanks,
Mike

 

I found a manual page for the slightly older 4.2L V8 and it shows the condenser connections as 20 Nm. Probably a fine value to use for my XF connections.




Thanks,
Mike

 

Found a manual for 2013 for XF 3.0L and it lists the torque on the connector nut as 8 Nm. I removed the A/C pipe tonight and the nut did not need much force for removal, so I think the 8 Nm spec is accurate.

Mike

 

Yes those peanut fittings use low torque and I don't even bother trying to measure something that small with a torque wrench. Just a nice snug with the ratchet has always been adequate. I do like this style WAY better than those older Spring-Lock connections that I can never get apart after many years!

Don't forget to add the right amount and correct type of oil. With the age of your car and your right there I would consider replacing the filter/dryer sock.
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Thanks for the recommendations. I have researched the oil type (originally filled with SP-A2) and will be adding some oil with UV dye that is compatible per Sanden. I had bought a replacement receiver/dryer sock as I wasn't sure if the pipe leak had allowed air from the atmosphere to enter the system. It turns out there was some minor pressure in the system and it would hold 25 psi of vacuum. So the receiver/dryer might be ok, but since I had to remove the plastic pieces on the bottom to access the pipe connection at the condenser, changing out the receiver/dryer should be trivial. I'll use new o-rings for the pipe connections lubed with compressor oil, too.

I'm going to first attempt to repair the aluminum pipe before replacing it. Either directly braze the pipe or fabricate a small sleeve and braze it in. Keeping my fingers crossed.

Thanks,
Mike

 

The dryer/filter sock is so cheap I would go ahead and replace it. You already are in there and it's very little extra work.
The AC system can never be too dry or too clean.
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