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Dual O-Ring Separator Necessary?

alchemist_bobtilton on Wed June 18, 2008 9:00 AM User is offline

Year: 1998
Make: Chevrolet
Model: Suburban 1500
Engine Size: 5.7L
Refrigerant Type: 134a
Country of Origin: United States

One question that I have on replacing the accumulator on this vehicle. I see from my 1998 GM factory service manual that it suggests to use a J-38042 "Dual O-Ring Separator", as there are two o-rings on one of the connections at the accumulator. I've replaced many GM accumulators in my day (esp. on mid-90's B-bodies: Caprices, Roadmasters, Impalas, etc.), and I don't recall ever needing one of those tools. But then, I don't recall there being two o-rings stacked on one fitting at the accumulator. Is this thing necessary? Tell me it's one of those unnecessary tools (please).

Thanks-

GM Tech on Wed June 18, 2008 9:22 AM User is offline

I've never used one- just a dental pick hook tool is all you need to remove the o-rings-- - and always be careful not to scratch the sealing surfaces...

Come to think of it- maybe they (probably) are referring to separating the connection- some of those dual-oring connections are a bear to pull apart- when there is no room for movement- and a separater sounds like that is what it would do-- actually pull the connection apart- like a pry bar.. now that might help- but again- I've never used it- and have done a ton of them.....

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The number one A/C diagnostic tool there is- is to know how much refrigerant is in the system- this can only be done by recovering and weighing the refrigerant!!
Just a thought.... 65% of A/C failures in my 3200 car diagnostic database (GM vehicles) are due to loss of refrigerant due to a leak......

alchemist_bobtilton on Wed June 18, 2008 10:00 AM User is offline

yes, it looks like the separator is used to pull the fittings apart, because of the tight fit of the accumulator to the firewall and the tight fit of the hose to the accumulator (maybe the double o-ring makes it a biotch??). Doesn't look like it would be used just to pull the o-rings. Those things are pliable and easy to maneuver.

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