Use the following steps when servicing quick-connect-style lines and hoses.
The metal brackets that some manufacturers use to provide an extra
layer of protection against leaks need to be removed prior to
disconnecting the coupling with the special removal
The brackets should be safely stored after removal to prevent accidental loss. These devices are used to provide an extra layer of protection for quick-connect couplings. The brackets should be installed prior to returning the vehicle to
1. Remove the metal bracket from the quick-connect joint if one is in lace.
The quick-connection bracket should be removed prior to using the special tool that allows the connection to be disconnected. This bracket provides an extra layer of protection to ensure that the connection will not come apart while in operation. Not all manufacturers use these
2. Inspect the connection to determine which side of the assembly that the spring is on. Choose the correct size special tool to use on the connection.
The quick-connect coupling should be closely inspected to determine where the spring is located. The side of the connection with the spring is where the disconnect tool lip will need to be
Several companies make sets of disconnect tools that are made from aluminum. This set has six different sizes and the pieces are very rigid since they are made of metal. Quick-connect couplings are used in other systems, such as fuel supply lines, transmission cooler lines, engine oil cooler lines, and even engine coolant
The quick-connect tools typically come in various sizes and are often color coded to assist in choosing the correct tool for each job. These tools are available at most parts supply stores. These tools are made of plastic so they can be damaged if they are dropped or used
3. Install the special tool with the beveled edge facing the spring.
The tool has one side that has a beveled lip. This beveled lip faces the spring in the quick-connect coupling. The tool is spring loaded, so it must be held open when installing it into a quick-connect
The tool is inserted into the quick-connect coupling with the beveled lip facing the spring in the joint. The lip moves the spring back to allow the coupling to be pulled
4. Push the tool into the joint with one hand while pressing the opposite way with the other hand.
While pushing the tool into the coupling, the other side of the connection can be pulled apart. Once the joint is partially separated, the tool can be removed to allow it to completely come apart. It is sometimes necessary to twist the line to assist in breaking it loose to allow it to be
After the quick-connect joint has been disconnected using the tool, the two parts of the assembly can be fully disconnected. Most of these connections have two or three O-rings to allow for better sealing
5. Pull the connection apart.
The quick-connect joint is pulled apart after the tool is used to begin the process. The joint typically comes apart easily once the initial separation has been
6. If replacing the line or hose, be sure that new springs, gaskets, and/or O-rings are used in every location that is opened during the repair.
The spring on the coupling can be serviced. A pick can be used to pull the spring out of the housing. Extra caution should be applied to ensure that the correct size replacement spring is
Slide the new spring into place using normal finger pressure. This process is typically very simple and does not require the use of a pick or
7. Assemble the connection by carefully pushing the two parts together until an audible snap is heard. After hearing and feeling the spring pop into place, carefully try to pull the connection apart. The connection should not be able to be pulled apart by hand without using the tool.
The new spring should be firmly seated by hand to ensure that it is in the correct position. Once the spring is correctly installed, the coupling can be reassembled without the use of any tools. Always install new O-rings every time a connection is opened for
After pushing the quick-connect coupling together by hand until the spring snaps into place, the connection should be pulled on to see if it will hold together. If the spring is firmly in place, then the connection will not come apart without the tool in
No tools are needed to reassemble a quick-connect coupling. The two parts of the connection can just be pushed together by hand until the spring snaps back into place. Even pressure should be used to prevent putting too much side pressure on the O-rings, which could damage
8. Install the metal bracket onto the connection if one was removed in step one.
