Where is the expansion valve located on the Jinbei Grace?
2 Answers
It is located behind the evaporator box. The precise location is under the white air intake cover beneath the windshield wiper water deflector. There are two screws on each side; after removing them, you will see the expansion valve. Relevant information about the expansion valve is as follows: 1. Introduction to the thermal expansion valve: The thermal expansion valve, also known as the throttle valve, is one of the four major components in the automotive air conditioning refrigeration system (evaporator, compressor, condenser, and expansion valve). It senses the superheat of the refrigerant vapor at the outlet of the evaporator to adjust the opening degree of the expansion valve, thereby controlling the flow of liquid refrigerant entering the evaporator. 2. Thermal expansion valve balance: Based on the balance method, thermal expansion valves are divided into internal balance and external balance types. The working principles of internal and external balance expansion valves are basically the same. The difference lies in: the internal balance expansion valve diaphragm senses the pressure at the evaporator inlet. When the pressure drop in the evaporator is too large, it reduces the superheat sensed by the power head, causing insufficient valve opening. The external balance expansion valve diaphragm senses the pressure at the evaporator outlet, avoiding the influence of evaporator pressure drop on the valve opening and overcoming the shortcomings of the internal balance valve.
The expansion valve of the Jinbei Grace is generally located near the air conditioning system's evaporator box, specifically in the area close to the rear of the dashboard or beneath the center console. I've helped a friend repair it before. To locate it, you usually need to open the hood or remove the glove compartment and follow the air conditioning high and low-pressure pipes. There's a small component connecting the pipes to the evaporator. The expansion valve controls the flow of refrigerant. If it's misaligned or clogged with rust, the air conditioning won't blow cold air—blame it for that. I suggest not tampering with it right away if you encounter this issue. Instead, check the metal part of the valve for oil leaks or damage to avoid further system damage and costly repairs. The Jinbei model is a bit cramped in design, so beginners shouldn't force it. It's safer and more convenient to have a professional shop handle it. Regular air conditioning maintenance can extend its lifespan.
