Another 'What does this do?' thread

[insanitybeard]

For my own unrelenting curiosity(!), can anybody tell me the function of the canister shaped item (as highlighted/ pictured below) that sits inline on the offside upper air-con pipe in the vicinity of the condenser at the front of the vehicle? It appears I had incorrectly assumed for some reason (possibly by misunderstanding something else I had read) that it was an expansion valve. I know this particular pipe is prone to failure in service, but I'm interested to know what the function of the 'canister' is!



[attachimg=1]

[Mirez]

The expansion valve is on the bulkhead, I remember when I bought this one and the A/C didn't work it caused the Ford mechanic who changed mine a great deal of hardship

As for what that thing is, I'd presume (quite possibly also incorrectly) that its there to iron out pressure fluctuations from the compressor.

[insanitybeard]

Good point! Having the pipes turning 90 degrees as the enter and leave this 'canister' does seem to be asking for trouble with regards to this particular pipe failing.... as they seem to quite often! Mine hasn't yet, I expect it's  forecast........