HomeHVAC > A/C Flow RestrictorsFour Seasons 38881 A/C Expansion Valve
Part #: 38881

Four Seasons 38881 A/C Expansion Valve

Expansion Valve
⚙️ 9 vehicles fit this part
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OE Direct Replacement — Bolt-on fit, no modifications needed
📦Expansion Valve
🚗Fitment: BMW and Mercedes-Benz, L6, L7, 735i, 733i, 240D, 280CE, 280E, 300CD, and 300D
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Overview of Four Seasons Expansion Valve 38881

The Four Seasons Expansion Valve 38881 is designed for precise control of refrigerant flow in automotive air conditioning systems. Engineered from durable aluminum, this block-type valve is compatible with R134a refrigerant and fits select BMW and Mercedes-Benz models, including the 300D and 735i.

  • Constructed from corrosion-resistant aluminum material
  • Compatible with R134a refrigerant systems
  • Block type design with two mounting holes for secure installation
  • Female suction and liquid inlet/outlet fittings with specific thread sizes
  • Includes green O-rings for reliable sealing
  • Meets or exceeds OEM specifications

Detailed Product Features and Specifications

This Four Seasons Expansion Valve 38881 features a block-type design that ensures consistent refrigerant metering for efficient A/C performance. The valve is made from aluminum, providing strength and resistance to corrosion. It is designed specifically for R134a refrigerant systems, commonly used in modern vehicles. The valve includes two mounting holes for stable attachment and features female suction inlet and outlet fittings with thread diameters of No. 8 and No. 10, respectively. The suction inlet thread type is 3/4" - 18, while the suction outlet thread type is 7/8" - 18. Similarly, the liquid inlet and outlet fittings are female with thread diameters No. 6 and No. 8, and thread types 5/8" - 18 and 3/4" - 18, respectively. The liquid inlet and outlet sizes measure 0.41 inches (10.5 mm) and 0.54 inches (13.6 mm). The valve comes equipped with green O-rings ([24606] and [24608]) to ensure a secure, leak-free connection.

About the Four Seasons Expansion Valve Product Line

The Four Seasons Expansion Valve product line focuses on delivering reliable and precise refrigerant flow restrictors for automotive HVAC systems. This line is engineered to meet or exceed OEM standards, providing consistent performance and durability. The Expansion Valve 38881 is part of this line, designed to maintain optimal air conditioning efficiency in vehicles such as BMW 300D and Mercedes-Benz 735i models.

Applications and Common Issues Addressed

  • Regulates refrigerant flow to maintain proper A/C system pressure
  • Prevents compressor damage caused by improper refrigerant metering
  • Eliminates inconsistent cabin cooling and temperature fluctuations
  • Resolves issues related to refrigerant leaks at valve connections
  • Improves overall HVAC system reliability and performance

Installation Notes and Tips

  • Ensure compatibility with BMW 300D and Mercedes-Benz 735i before installation
  • Use proper tools to avoid damaging the aluminum valve body or fittings
  • Replace O-rings with the included green O-rings to maintain a secure seal
  • Follow vehicle manufacturer torque specifications for mounting bolts
  • Check for refrigerant leaks after installation and system recharge

Quality Assurance and Warranty

The Four Seasons Expansion Valve 38881 meets or exceeds OEM quality standards, ensuring reliable performance in compatible vehicles. Manufactured with precision and tested for durability, this valve is backed by Four Seasons' commitment to quality. Warranty details should be confirmed with the product documentation or supplier.

BrandFour Seasons
Part Number38881
PositionExpansion Valve
ColorAluminum
DescriptionExpansion Valves
Liquid Inlet Fitting GenderFemale
Liquid Inlet Fitting Thread DiameterNo. 6
Liquid Inlet Size IN0.41
Liquid Inlet Size MM10.5
Liquid Inlet StyleFOR
Liquid Inlet Thread Type5/8" - 18
Liquid Inlet TypeO-Ring
Liquid Outlet Fitting GenderFemale
Liquid Outlet Fitting Thread DiameterNo. 8
Liquid Outlet StyleFOR
Liquid Outlet Thread Type3/4" - 18
Liquid Outlet TypeO-Ring
Lqd Out Size IN0.540
Lqd Out Size MM13.6
MaterialAluminum
Meets / Exceeds OEM?Yes
Mounting Hole Quantity2
O-Ring A Number/Desc[24606] / Green O-Ring
O-Ring B Number/Desc[24608] / Green O-Ring
O-Ring C Number/Desc[24610] / Green O-Ring
Refrigerant TypeR134A
Stylew/o Solenoid
Suc In Size IN0.54
Suc In Size MM13.6
Suc Out Size IN0.65
Suc Out Size MM16.4
Suction Inlet Fitting GenderFemale
Suction Inlet Fitting Thread DiameterNo. 8
Suction Inlet StyleFOR
Suction Inlet Thread Type3/4" - 18
Suction Inlet TypeO-Ring
Suction Outlet Fitting GenderFemale
Suction Outlet Fitting Thread DiameterNo. 10
Suction Outlet StyleFOR
Suction Outlet Thread Type7/8" - 18
Suction Outlet TypeO-Ring
Super Heat8.000
Switch Included?Not Included
Tonnage1.500
TypeBlock Type

This part fits 9 vehicles. Search below:

YearMakeModelPositionNotes
1986BMW735iN/AExpansion Valve
1985BMW735iN/AExpansion Valve
1981Mercedes-Benz300DN/ATo VIN No. 181803; Expansion Valve
1980Mercedes-Benz300DN/ATo VIN No. 181803; Expansion Valve
1979Mercedes-Benz300DN/ATo VIN No. 181803; Expansion Valve
1978Mercedes-Benz300DN/ATo VIN No. 181803; Expansion Valve
1977Mercedes-Benz300DN/ATo VIN No. 181803; Expansion Valve
1976Mercedes-Benz300DN/AExpansion Valve
1975Mercedes-Benz300DN/AExpansion Valve

* Always verify fitment with your vehicle's VIN if unsure. Submodel & trim restrictions may apply.

This part directly replaces or is cross-referenced with the following part numbers:

1113888112383011841550040191898312073813130915341124034112913758881388817588818070048900147393888195044A97381BSM308011CWK758881

Cross-reference numbers are provided for identification purposes only. Always confirm fitment before ordering.