MCT-9 Valve Core Removal Tool (Schrader Valve Core) – 5/16" Inlet (R410A · R32) × 1/4" Side Port

The MCT-9 is a service tool used to remove and install the valve core (Schrader valve core) in air conditioning and refrigeration systems while the system is under pressure. It attaches to the service valve with its 5/16" SAE female end — this size is the common service port on R410A and R32 systems. A manifold or vacuum line is connected to the 1/4" SAE male side port.

Removes the Valve Core Without Emptying the System — Without Refrigerant Loss

First job — replacing a leaking core. When a valve core starts to leak, the normal method is to empty the system: the refrigerant is recovered, the core is replaced, a vacuum is pulled and the system is recharged. With this tool, the core is removed and a new one fitted while the system is full and under pressure. There is neither refrigerant loss nor recharging.

Second job — speeding up evacuation. The valve core creates a significant flow restriction at the service port; a vacuum pulled with the core in place is both slow and does not reach the true micron value. Because the tool withdraws the core completely from the line, the vacuum is pulled through the full bore. On systems with long lines and multiple circuits, it noticeably shortens evacuation time.

The body is brass, the shaft is steel and sealing is provided by an O-ring. The cap on the side port is attached to the body with a chain — it does not get lost in the field.

Technical Specifications

• Model: MCT-9
• Inlet (connects to the system): 5/16" SAE female fitting — the common service port size on R410A · R32 systems
• Side port (hose connects): 1/4" SAE male, 90°, with chained cap
• Shaft: knurled turning knob — turned without tools
• Body: brass · steel shaft · O-ring sealed
• Operation: the core can be removed and installed while the system is under pressure
• Applications: air conditioning, heat pump, refrigeration and automotive AC service ports

• 🔧 How to use: ① Fit the tool to the service valve and remove the side cap. ② Turn the knob to loosen the core and withdraw it. ③ Connect the manifold/vacuum line to the side port. ④ When finished, turn the knob the other way to reseat the core and remove the tool.
• ⚠️ Do not overtighten the valve core. The torque given by manufacturers is in the 3-5 in-lb range — a "light seating" by feel is enough. Excessive torque damages the core seat and seal and causes a permanent leak.
• ⚠️ Close the side port before removing the tool. If the tool is removed before the core is reinstalled, the service port remains open and the charge escapes. Do not change the sequence.
• O-ring care: clean the seal surface after each use. A dried-out or crushed O-ring leaks; a drop of refrigeration oil extends its life.
• 🔎 Which version fits your system?
  5/16" inlet — this product: R410A · R32 (new-generation air conditioners and heat pumps).
  1/4" inlet — other version: R22 · R134a · R404A · R407C (classic refrigeration and older air conditioning systems).
  If you are not sure, remove the cap from the outdoor unit’s service valve and try your manifold hose: if the hose is loose, the port is 5/16". The side port is 1/4" SAE male on both versions, so the manifold hose fits directly.
• Keep spare cores on hand. A removed core is often not reused — valve core sets and single cores are available in our catalog.