Small,heavy brass Automatic Expansion Valve,American Radiator Company,662M,steam car?

[sagefinds]

The two small flare fittings had caps on them and I thought it was an exterior mounted oil pump. Beadblasted it,took the caps off and low and behold it's an expansion vale. Sure helps when they stamp the use right in it but expansion in what? Steam car was my only idea.Appreciate any help.

[m-mman]

Expansion valves are also essential parts of an air conditioning or refrigeration system. . .

The small in and out ports look too small for steam, but seem the correct size for refrigerant. 

[sagefinds]

This thing was in a box of patent 1901-03 Jefferson unions off a Stanley Steamer but what you're saying is really making some sense. We'll see if any other ideas come along however unlikely. Thanks much.