Fluid coupling and method for assembling same

A fluid coupling for fluid-conducting lines, comprising:

• a first coupling member including a tubular body having an axial fluid-flow pathway therethrough and having a rear end for connection with a fluid conducting line and an opposite forward end for connection with a second coupling member, the first coupling member being configured such that the forward end of the second coupling member can be axially inserted into the forward end of the first coupling member for establishing a continuous fluid-flow pathway between the coupling members;
• a valve assembly having a valve body, a valve member, and a valve spring configured to be slid into position as a unit through the forward end of the first coupling member, the valve member coaxially disposed within the valve body and the valve spring coaxially surrounding the valve member and disposed between the valve body and the valve member, the valve body including an aperture configured to allow the valve member to pass through the aperture, the valve member being moved axially upon insertion of the second coupling member into the first coupling member so as to open the fluid-flow pathway;
• a circumferential groove defined in an inner surface of a valve cavity for receiving a stop ring to secure the valve assembly in the valve cavity and to limit the movement of the valve member towards the forward end of the first coupling member, wherein the stop ring is configured to substantially prevent movement of the valve body relative to the tubular body of the first coupling member;
• and
• a hexagonal outer surface of the rear end of the first coupling member to facilitate connecting the fluid conducting line to the rear end of the first coupling member.