Replacing AC Service Port on High Side - Camaro5 Chevy Camaro Forum / Camaro ZL1, SS and V6 Forums

JemSS · 07-01-2022, 09:09 PM

I have a leak from the AC service port on the high side. This doesn't appear to be a normal Schrader valve, so it appears the whole valve/port needs replaced.

I found the part at AutoZone, however, I can't for the life of me get the old port off. I've given it quite a bit of torque, but I'm worried i'll bust/bend the lines.

Any tips?

Mr_Draco · 07-01-2022, 11:29 PM

All newer GM vehicles do not use a Schrader valve on the high side so you are correct in that the whole port needs to be replaced. If you google the issue, it is pretty common and most recommend to replace this port on a regular basis.

To remove, you need to put a wrench, I think it's a 5/8 in, on the nut that is welded to the line and use a special socket made to remove the port. You can use two wrenches but the socket is much easier, and yes it takes quite a bit of force to remove especially if it's still the factory port. Do not forget to lube the o-ring with some AC oil or you will be taking it off and refilling your freon in a couple months as the o-ring needs to be lubed in order to seal.

InFiD3ViL · 07-06-2022, 12:21 AM

I am doing this job on mine soon. The high side port does not have your typical Schrader valve, as MR_Draco said, but instead has a plastic valve core piece that wears down and eventually leaks, as mine is also doing.

The socket I bought for removal:

Mastercool 98234 Socket -
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002YKK234...roduct_details

You don't want to try using a normal socket, as the port is 8-sided, I assume this is to discourage DIY's from doing what some DIY'ers do...

Also, I decided to NOT go with the GM replacement port, as the Dorman branded port is highly recommended instead. It has a true Schrader valve instead of that crappy plastic valve setup that GM uses on the high side. From what I have read, the plastic GM high side port is supposed to be replaced whenever it is serviced. No thanks GM. Here is the link to the Dorman part:

Dorman 800-955 GM Air Conditioning Schrader Valve M12 X 1.50 Compatible with Select Models
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E58M8J4...roduct_details

If you are interested in replacing the low side valve core while you are in there, here is the GM part. A bit pricey for a tiny ass Schrader valve, but it is a GM part after all:

GM Genuine Parts 15-1119 Air Conditioning System Valve Core
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0012P1QN2...roduct_details

Mr_Draco · 07-06-2022, 06:53 PM

I got a leak in my AC as well but I'm not sure where it is yet but I'm pretty sure it's the port. Thanks for posting links to the tool and a better replacement port.

DCC · 12-04-2022, 10:31 AM

Thanks for the Good Information InFiD3ViL.... I have to Replace the High side port as well

07-01-2022, 09:09 PM	#1
JemSS Drives: 2010 Camaro 2SS/RS, 1993 Camaro Z28 Join Date: Dec 2012 Location: Tucson, AZ Posts: 22	Replacing AC Service Port on High Side I have a leak from the AC service port on the high side. This doesn't appear to be a normal Schrader valve, so it appears the whole valve/port needs replaced. I found the part at AutoZone, however, I can't for the life of me get the old port off. I've given it quite a bit of torque, but I'm worried i'll bust/bend the lines. Any tips?

07-06-2022, 12:21 AM	#3
InFiD3ViL Drives: 2010 CGM 2SS/RS LS3 Swapped A6 Join Date: Sep 2016 Location: Spring Hill, FL Posts: 4,570	I am doing this job on mine soon. The high side port does not have your typical Schrader valve, as MR_Draco said, but instead has a plastic valve core piece that wears down and eventually leaks, as mine is also doing. The socket I bought for removal: Mastercool 98234 Socket - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002YKK234...roduct_details You don't want to try using a normal socket, as the port is 8-sided, I assume this is to discourage DIY's from doing what some DIY'ers do... Also, I decided to NOT go with the GM replacement port, as the Dorman branded port is highly recommended instead. It has a true Schrader valve instead of that crappy plastic valve setup that GM uses on the high side. From what I have read, the plastic GM high side port is supposed to be replaced whenever it is serviced. No thanks GM. Here is the link to the Dorman part: Dorman 800-955 GM Air Conditioning Schrader Valve M12 X 1.50 Compatible with Select Models https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E58M8J4...roduct_details If you are interested in replacing the low side valve core while you are in there, here is the GM part. A bit pricey for a tiny ass Schrader valve, but it is a GM part after all: GM Genuine Parts 15-1119 Air Conditioning System Valve Core https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0012P1QN2...roduct_details __________________ 2010 CGM Camaro 2SS LS3 Swapped A6 - GPI LS3 SS1 .647/.638, (224/237, 112 +4, 7º overlap) on CamMotion 8620 core, BTR Platinum .660" Dual Spring kit w/titanium retainers, CHE bronze trunnion upgrade, stock heads milled @ .015, Melling HV 10296 oil pump, TSP 1-7/8" long tube headers (W/Catless Off-road Pipes), Corsa Xtreme 3" Catback, GPI Ported/Rod Mod Intake, Stage 2 Ported Throttle Body, Vararam OTR CAI, Mike Norris Gen 2 catch can + GM 1LE clean side separator, 160º thermostat - Megan Racing adjustable coilovers (lowered 1.75"), MRR M017 10/11" wheels-Tuned by Ryan @ GPI Last edited by InFiD3ViL; 07-06-2022 at 12:41 AM.

07-01-2022, 11:29 PM	#2
Mr_Draco Drives: 2SS/RS Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: Western North Carolina Posts: 7,179	All newer GM vehicles do not use a Schrader valve on the high side so you are correct in that the whole port needs to be replaced. If you google the issue, it is pretty common and most recommend to replace this port on a regular basis. To remove, you need to put a wrench, I think it's a 5/8 in, on the nut that is welded to the line and use a special socket made to remove the port. You can use two wrenches but the socket is much easier, and yes it takes quite a bit of force to remove especially if it's still the factory port. Do not forget to lube the o-ring with some AC oil or you will be taking it off and refilling your freon in a couple months as the o-ring needs to be lubed in order to seal.

07-06-2022, 06:53 PM	#4
Mr_Draco Drives: 2SS/RS Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: Western North Carolina Posts: 7,179	I got a leak in my AC as well but I'm not sure where it is yet but I'm pretty sure it's the port. Thanks for posting links to the tool and a better replacement port.

12-04-2022, 10:31 AM	#5
DCC Drives: Rally Yellow 2012 2SS Join Date: Jan 2015 Location: Wagener , South Carolina Posts: 68	Thanks for the Good Information InFiD3ViL.... I have to Replace the High side port as well