Here's a general outline; however, always consult a repair manual specific to your 2001 Ford Focus for precise instructions and diagrams. This is crucial, as variations exist between models.
Before You Begin:
* Safety First: Wear safety glasses and gloves. Refrigerant is harmful if inhaled.
* Recover Refrigerant: This is absolutely critical. You MUST have the refrigerant properly recovered from the system by a qualified technician or using a refrigerant recovery/recycling machine. Releasing refrigerant into the atmosphere is illegal and harmful to the environment. Attempting this without proper equipment is dangerous and irresponsible.
* Gather Tools: You'll need a set of wrenches (metric), sockets, screwdrivers, a vacuum pump (for evacuating the system after the repair), AC refrigerant charging equipment, and possibly a flare nut wrench for the lines. A repair manual will specify the correct tools.
* Parts: Obtain the correct orifice tube for your specific vehicle. Use a reputable parts supplier to ensure you're getting a quality part.
General Steps (Consult your repair manual for specifics):
1. Disconnect the Battery: Always disconnect the negative terminal of the battery before starting any electrical work.
2. Access the Orifice Tube: This usually involves removing parts of the undercarriage or accessing it from under the dash. The exact location varies by model year and engine. Your repair manual will show you the exact location.
3. Disconnect the Lines: Carefully disconnect the AC lines connected to the orifice tube. Be prepared for some refrigerant to escape even if you've had it recovered, so wear gloves and safety glasses. You may need to loosen clamps or use flare nut wrenches. Note the orientation of the lines before disconnecting, you'll need to put them back exactly as they were.
4. Remove the Orifice Tube: This may involve removing other components to access the orifice tube. The tube itself is usually held in place with a clip, a bracket, or other fasteners.
5. Install the New Orifice Tube: Carefully install the new orifice tube, ensuring it's seated correctly.
6. Reconnect the Lines: Carefully reconnect the AC lines, ensuring they are properly seated and clamped.
7. Evacuate and Recharge the System: After reconnecting everything, you MUST evacuate the system using a vacuum pump to remove any air and moisture. Then, a qualified technician should recharge the system with the correct amount and type of refrigerant.
Important Considerations:
* System Contamination: If the system has been open for a while, there's a risk of contamination. Professional cleaning and flushing might be necessary.
* Other Components: While you're working on the system, inspect other components like the compressor, condenser, and evaporator for any damage or wear.
Recommendation:
Unless you have significant experience working on automotive AC systems, it is strongly recommended to have a qualified mechanic perform this repair. Improper handling can lead to expensive damage to your AC system, and improperly handling refrigerant is dangerous and illegal. The cost of professional repair is often less than the cost of incorrectly repairing it yourself and then having to fix the resulting damage.
