Parts for your 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero-Tx valve

2002 Mitsubishi Pajero TX Valve: What it does, where it is, and how to look after it

Yes, the 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero runs a thermostatic expansion valve (TX valve). Technical sources including the Mitsubishi workshop manual (Group 55 – Heating and Air Conditioning) and the Mitsubishi electronic parts catalogue (ASA/EPC) show a TX valve for the front evaporator, with an additional rear TX valve on models fitted with rear air. Major aftermarket catalogues from brands commonly used in AU/NZ workshops also list direct-fit Pajero TX valves for this model year, confirming its use.

The TX valve’s job is to meter refrigerant into the evaporator based on temperature and pressure, keeping superheat in the sweet spot. That helps the aircon cool quickly at lights, stay frosty on the highway, and avoid icing the evaporator. When a Pajero TX valve starts to play up, the cabin air can swing from cold to warm, the system can hiss or surge, the evaporator may freeze, or pressures read oddly on gauges.

On the 2002 Pajero, the front TX valve is mounted at the front evaporator, typically accessed behind the glovebox where the refrigerant lines enter the HVAC case. If equipped with rear air, a second TX valve lives with the rear evaporator in the rear quarter trim. Because the system originally uses R134a, any work that opens the system needs recovery, evacuation, and a precise recharge by an ARCtick-licensed technician.

• Best practice when replacing a TX valve: renew the receiver–drier (or desiccant bag), fit new O-rings, and perform a deep vacuum and leak test.
• If there’s been compressor failure or debris, flush lines where allowed, and consider changing the TX valve and condenser to protect the new compressor.
• Insulate the valve bulb/sensing area exactly as found and torque fittings correctly to prevent leaks and false readings.
• Check blower performance, cabin filter condition, and condenser cleanliness, airflow issues can mimic a dodgy TX valve.

TX valves aren’t a periodic “service item” and don’t need routine replacement. They’re replaced when symptoms point to metering faults, contamination is present, or the evaporator is being changed. Quality matters—genuine or reputable aftermarket valves hold superheat more consistently, which is noticeable on hot Kiwi and Aussie summer days or when towing. If the Pajero has dual air, diagnose both circuits, one sticky valve can make the whole system seem off. A pro will confirm with pressure readings, temperature drop checks across the valve, and a quick scan for blend door operation before calling it a TX valve issue.

FAQs

Does a 2002 Mitsubishi Pajero use a TX valve or an orifice tube?
It uses a thermostatic expansion valve. Front evaporators have a TX valve, and models fitted with rear air have a second TX valve for the rear evaporator. This layout is shown in Mitsubishi service literature and parts catalogues for the NM/NP series.

Where is the TX valve on a 2002 Pajero?
The front TX valve sits at the evaporator inlet/outlet, usually accessed by removing the glovebox and trim to reach the HVAC case. On vehicles with rear air, the rear TX valve is mounted at the rear evaporator, commonly behind trim in the rear quarter area.

Should the TX valve be replaced during a regas?
No. A regas alone doesn’t require a new TX valve. Replace it if there are metering faults, contamination, or major component changes (like a failed compressor or a new evaporator). Always replace the receiver–drier when the system is opened and have an ARCtick-licensed technician carry out the work.