How to Install a Rotolock Compressor

Written By
Mark Robinson
Mark Robinson
Published: Sep 26, 2011
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
2 minute read

Step 1

Apply a small amount of flux onto the surface of the rotolock with a small brush and discharge pipe stub. Avoid leaving excess amounts of flux inside the pipe and fitting. Remove the Teflon gaskets from the rotolock fitting.

Step 2

Assemble the rotolock fitting onto the pipe stub immediately after adding the flux. Revolve the fitting at least once on the pipe to spread the flux in a uniform manner.

Step 3

Apply a small amount of flux over the back end of the fitting. Make sure the fitting has adequate support, if needed.

Step 4

Braze the fitting with an oxyacetylene torch fitted with a low-velocity bulbous tip and a 10-inch-long soft copper extension tube. Position the flame at least a half-inch away from the end of the fitting.

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Step 5

Heat the fitting all around to promote the uniform expansion of the pipe. After the flux on the pipe melts to a clear liquid, move the torch away from the pipe and onto the joint on the rotolock fitting.

Step 6

Apply alloy onto the junction between the pipe and fitting by heating the alloy stick with the torch. Allow the liquefied alloy to run and settle into the junction. When finished, remove the heat and wash off residual flux with a wet brush. Reinstall the Teflon gasket onto the rotolock fitting.

Step 7

Insert the discharge line into the rotolock fitting. Hold the larger nut on the rotolock fitting with one combination wrench while tightening the line with the other combination wrench. Repeat the procedure for the suction line and other lines that require rotolock fittings.

Warnings

Remove all refrigerants from the compressor before servicing joints, lines and other parts, otherwise severe injury or death can occur.

Mark Robinson

Mark Robinson is a freelance graphic designer and writer. Since 2008 he has contributed to various online publications, specializing in topics concerning automotive repair, graphic design and computer technology. Robinson holds a Bachelor…

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