Spring Lock Coupling: Cleaning

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Lincoln LS. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fabricate a cleaning tool from a 1/8 inch diameter brazing rod.

Fig 1: Fabricating Cleaning Tool From Brazing Rod
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Cut an abrasive pad from maroon colored 3M Scotch Brite® with dimensions corresponding to the coupling size.

Fig 2: Coupling And Pad Specification Chart
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Assemble the pad to the tool.

Fig 3: Assembling Pad To Tool
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Coat the abrasive pad with PAG Refrigerant Compressor Oil (R-134a Systems) or equivalent.
Roll the pad on the tool and install it in a variable speed drill motor.

CAUTION: Maintain low speed drill rotation when inserting or removing the cleaning tool to prevent axial scratches which may cause future leaks.

Fig 4: Rolling Pad On Tool And Installing In Variable Speed Drill Motor

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Polish for one minute at moderate speed (less than 1,500 RPM) or until the surface is clean and free of scratches or foreign material.
Clean the fitting with a lint-free cloth.
Inspect the surface for grooves or scratches. If grooves and scratches are still present, install a new component.
Clean the O-ring seal grooves with a 300 mm (12 inch) length of natural fiber string.
- Loop the string around the grooves and pull the string back and forth.
Fig 5: Looping String Around Grooves
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove any foreign material from the grooves with a lint-free cloth.