Abstract: The disclosure is directed to a self-contained line tapping and clamping device for removing fluids from a refrigeration system. The apparatus includes a main inner shaft, and an outer tubular shaft slidably fitting over at least a portion of the inner shaft. A pair of opposing clamp arms are provided, one carried by the lower portion of the inner shaft and the other carried by the outer shaft. The clamp arms align by relative movement of the inner and outer shafts. One of the clamp arms carries a piercing device which includes a piercing point for piercing a line supported by the other clamping arm such that the piercing point is aimed directly at the line. A threaded actuating device including a mechanism for rotating the actuating device is provided for urging the two arms together as they move relative to each other to thereby cause the piercing point to pierce the line.