What's that thing I can see down that hole?

[Maj]

Just started the motor tear down of the 5.0L '84 GM yesterday. I've taken all the A/C gubbins off for better engine access and it doesn't work anyways, while I was staring at it I noticed a load of crap stuck in the metal pipe that comes up from the bottom of the A/C heat exchanger'(?). I sucked out what I could with the vacuum cleaner and then I noticed there is a small plastic thing in the pipe too. I tried to pull it out but it wouldn't budge. Does anyone know what the plastic thing is? I want to get it out if I can because I think all that crap I mentioned blocking the pipe is what's buggering up the A/C.
Thanks

[gadget73]

That would be the orifice tube. It pushes into the tube and its a bit of a bitch to pull it out. THere is a special tool, but long skinny needle nose will usually get it out. The screen on it is intended to catch any crap that gets into the AC. Get the thing out and have a look. Depending what you find, it should tell you what needs replacing. If its sand, the dessicant bag in the drier blew up. No big deal because you need a new one anyway since the AC has been opened. If its black sludge, the compressor seals have blown apart, and you'll need a compressor and a full system flush.

[Maj]

Thanks, i'll try some pliers then. The crap in there looks more like brown sand than black sludge. What's involved in replacing the dessicant bag?

[gadget73]

its in the receiever/drier assembly, that black can next to where you're working. It should be replaced any time the AC system is opened anyway, so simply remove it and pitch it out. I'd probably suggest a full system flush and all new O rings before you vacuum it down and recharge it.

[Maj]

Gotcha, I already have the 'receiever/drier ' out so that should be easy enough.
Thanks again sir!