oil change CHRYSLER CARAVAN 2002 Workshop Manual

FLUID
STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - FLUID LEVEL AND
CONDITION CHECK
NOTE: The transmission and differential sump have
a common oil sump with a communicating opening
between the two.
FLUID LEVEL CHECK
The torque converter fills in both the P Park and N
Neutral positions. Place the selector lever in P Park
to be sure that the fluid level check is accurate.The
engine should be running at idle speed for at
least one minute, with the vehicle on level
ground. This will assure complete oil level sta-
bilization between differential and transmis-
sion.The fluid should be at normal operating
temperature (approximately 82 C. or 180 F.). The
fluid level is correct if it is in the HOT region (cross-
hatched area) on the fluid level indicator (Fig. 165).
Low fluid level can cause a variety of conditions
because it allows the pump to take in air along with
the fluid. As in any hydraulic system, air bubbles
make the fluid spongy, therefore, pressures will be
low and build up slowly.
Improper filling can also raise the fluid level too
high. When the transaxle has too much fluid, the
gears churn up foam and cause the same conditions
which occur with a low fluid level.
In either case, the air bubbles can cause overheat-
ing, fluid oxidation, and varnishing. This can inter-
fere with normal valve, clutch, and servo operation.
Foaming can also result in fluid escaping from thetransaxle dipstick where it may be mistaken for a
leak.
FLUID CONDITION
Along with fluid level, it is important to check the
condition of the fluid. MopartATF+4 (Automatic
Transmission Fluid-Type 9602) when new is red in
color. The ATF is dyed red so it can be identified from
other fluids used in the vehicle such as engine oil or
antifreeze. The red color is not permanent and is not
an indicator of fluid condition. As the vehicle is
driven, the ATF will begin to look darker in color and
may eventually become brown.This is normal.
ATF+4 also has a unique odor that may change with
age. Consequently,odor and color cannot be used
to indicate the fluid condition, or the need for a
fluid change.
After the fluid has been checked, seat the dipstick
fully to seal out water and dirt.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - FLUID AND FILTER
CHANGE
NOTE: For the recommended maintenance (fluid/fil-
ter change) intervals for this transaxle, (Refer to
LUBRICATION & MAINTENANCE/MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULES - DESCRIPTION)
NOTE: Only fluids of the type labeled MoparTATF+4
(Automatic Transmission Fluid) Type 9602 should
be used. A filter change should be made at the time
of the transmission oil change. The magnet (on the
inside of the oil pan) should also be cleaned with a
clean, dry cloth.
NOTE: If the transaxle is disassembled for any rea-
son, the fluid and filter should be changed.
FLUID/FILTER SERVICE (RECOMMENDED)
(1) Raise vehicle on a hoist. Place a drain con-
tainer with a large opening, under transaxle oil pan.
(2) Loosen pan bolts and tap the pan at one corner
to break it loose allowing fluid to drain, then remove
the oil pan.
(3) Remove oil filter-to-valve body screws (Fig.
166).
(4) Remove oil filter and gasket (Fig. 167).
(5) Install a new filter and gasket (Fig. 167).
(6) Clean the oil pan and magnet. Reinstall pan
using new MopartSilicone Rubber Adhesive Sealant.
Torque oil pan bolts to 19 N´m (165 in. lbs.).
(7) Pour four quarts of MopartATF+4 (Automatic
Transmission Fluid-Type 9602) through the dipstick
opening.
Fig. 165 Fluid Level Indicator Markings
1 - TRANSAXLE DIPSTICK
RS31TH AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE21-99
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valve or plug edges. Squareness of these edges is
vitally important. These edges prevent foreign matter
from lodging between the valves, plugs and bore.
INSPECTION
Inspect the throttle and manual valve levers and
shafts. Do not attempt to straighten a bent shaft or
correct a loose lever. Replace these components if
worn, bent, loose or damaged in any way.
Inspect all of the valve body mating surfaces for
scratches, nicks, burrs, or distortion. Use a straight-
edge to check surface flatness. Minor scratches may
be removed with crocus cloth using only very light
pressure.
Inspect the valves and plugs for scratches, burrs,
nicks, or scores. Also inspect the coating on the alu-
minum valves and plugs. If the coating is damaged
or worn through, the valve (or valve body) should be
replaced.
Inspect all the valve and plug bores in the valve
body. Use a penlight to view the bore interiors.
Replace the valve body if any bores are distorted or
scored. Inspect all of the valve body springs. The
springs must be free of distortion, warpage or broken
coils.
Trial fit each valve and plug in its bore to check
freedom of operation. When clean and dry, the valves
and plugs should drop freely into the bores. Valve
body bores do not change dimensionally with use. If
the valve body functioned correctly when new, it will
continue to operate properly after cleaning and
inspection. It should not be necessary to replace a
valve body assembly unless it is damaged in han-
dling.
ASSEMBLY
(1) Install shift/shuttle valves and springs as
shown in (Fig. 320).
(2) Install torque converter clutch solenoid, spring,
and plug as shown in (Fig. 319).
(3) Install governor plugs as shown in (Fig. 318).
(4) Install pressure regulator and manual control
springs and valves as shown in (Fig. 317).
(5) Install pressure regulator spring retainer/ad-
justing screw bracket (Fig. 321).
(6) Install manual valve from valve body (Fig.
322).
Fig. 321 Pressure Regulator and Adjusting Screw
Bracket
1 - SCREWDRIVER HANDLE
2 - PRESSURE REGULATOR SPRING RETAINER AND
ADJUSTING SCREW BRACKET
3 - VALVE BODY
4 - SCREWS
Fig. 322 Install Manual Valve
1 - MANUAL VALVE
2 - VALVE BODY
RS31TH AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE21 - 155
VALVE BODY (Continued)
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(8) Install and torque oil pan-to-transaxle bolts
(Fig. 339) to 19 N´m (165 in. lbs.).
(9) Lower vehicle.
(10) Connect torque converter clutch solenoid.
(11) Connect gearshift cable to manual valve lever.
(12) Connect throttle valve cable to throttle valve
lever at transaxle.
(13) Connect battery negative cable.
ADJUSTMENTS
HYDRAULIC CONTROL PRESSURE
ADJUSTMENTS
LINE PRESSURE
An incorrect throttle pressure setting will cause incor-
rect line pressure readings even though line pressure
adjustment is correct. Always inspect and correct throttle
pressure adjustment before adjusting the line pressure.
The approximate adjustment for line pressure is 1-5/16
inches, measured from valve body to inner edge of adjust-
ing nut. However, due to manufacturing tolerances, the
adjustment can be varied to obtain specified line pres-
sure.
The adjusting screw may be turned with an Allen
wrench. One complete turn of adjusting screw
changes closed throttle line pressure approximately
1-2/3 psi. Turning adjusting screw counterclockwise
increases pressure, and clockwise decreases pressure.
THROTTLE PRESSURE
Throttle pressures cannot be tested accurately;
therefore, the adjustment should be measured if a
malfunction is evident.
(1) Insert gauge pin of Tool C-3763 between the
throttle lever cam and kickdown valve.(2) By pushing in on tool, compress kickdown
valve against its spring so throttle valve is com-
pletely bottomed inside the valve body.
(3) While compressing spring, turn throttle lever
stop screw with adapter C-4553. Turn until head of
screw touches throttle lever tang, with throttle lever
cam touching tool and throttle valve bottomed. Be
sure adjustment is made with spring fully com-
pressed and valve bottomed in the valve body.
VEHICLE SPEED SENSOR/
PINION GEAR
REMOVAL
(1)Remove harness connector from sensor (Fig. 340).
Be sure weather seal stays on harness connector.
(2) Remove bolt securing the sensor in the exten-
sion housing (Fig. 340) .
(3) Carefully pull sensor and pinion gear assembly
out of extension housing.
(4) Remove pinion gear from sensor (Fig. 340) .
(5) Inspect pinion gear for damage (missing teeth,
etc.) and replace as necessary.
NOTE: When removing vehicle speed sensor for
any reason, a new o-ring MUST be used.
INSTALLATION
(1) Install vehicle speed sensor and pinion gear to
extension housing with new o-ring (Fig. 340).
(2) Install bolt and torque to 7 N´m (60 in. lbs.).
(3) Connect connector.
(4) Lower vehicle.
Fig. 339 Transaxle Oil Pan Bolts
1 - TRANSAXLE OIL PAN
2 - OIL PAN BOLTS
Fig. 340 Vehicle Speed Sensor Removal/Installation
1 - CONNECTOR
2 - SPEEDO PINION
3 - O-RING
4 - SENSOR
21 - 160 31TH AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLERS
VALVE BODY (Continued)
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SPECIFICATIONS - 41TE TRANSAXLE
GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS
DESCRIPTION SPECIFICATION
Transaxle TypeFully adaptive, electronically controlled, four speed
automatic with torque converter and integral differential
Cooling Method Air-to-oil heat exchanger
Lubrication Pump (internal-external gear-type
GEAR RATIOS
DESCRIPTION SPECIFICATION
First Gear 2.84
Second Gear 1.57
Direct Gear 1.00
Overdrive Gear 0.69
Reverse Gear 2.21
BEARING SETTINGS (END PLAY & TURNING TORQUE)
DESCRIPTION METRIC STANDARD
Differential Assembly 0.6-2 N´m 5-18 in. lbs.
Output Hub 0.3-2 N´m 3-8 in. lbs.
Transfer Shaft (End Play) 0.051-0.102 mm 0.002-0.004 in.
Overall Drag At Output Hub 0.3-1.9 N´m 3-16 in. lbs.
CLUTCH CLEARANCES
DESCRIPTION METRIC STANDARD
Low/Rev Clutch (Select Reaction
Plate)0.89-1.47 mm 0.035-0.058 in.
Two/Four Clutch (No Selection) 0.76-2.64 mm 0.030-0.104 in.
Reverse Clutch (Select Snap Ring) 0.89-1.37 mm 0.035-0.054 in.
Overdrive Clutch (No Selection) 1.07-3.25 mm 0.042-0.128 in.
Underdrive Clutch (Select Pressure
Plate)0.94-1.50 mm 0.037-0.059 in.
OIL PUMP CLEARANCES
DESCRIPTION METRIC STANDARD
Outer Gear-to-Crescent 0.060-0.298 mm 0.0023-0.0117 in.
Inner Gear-to-Crescent 0.093-0.385 mm 0.0036-0.0151 in.
Outer Gear-to-Pocket 0.089-0.202 mm 0.0035-0.0079 in.
Outer Gear Side Clearance 0.020-0.046 mm 0.0008-0.0018 in.
Inner Gear Side Clearance 0.020-0.046 mm 0.0008-0.0018 in.
21 - 228 41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLERS
41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE (Continued)
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(6) Adjust transmission fluid level shown on the
indicator according to the chart.
(7) Check transmission for leaks.
Low fluid level can cause a variety of conditions
because it allows the pump to take in air along with
the fluid. As in any hydraulic system, air bubbles
make the fluid spongy, therefore, pressures will be
low and build up slowly.
Improper filling can also raise the fluid level too
high. When the transaxle has too much fluid, the
gears churn up foam and cause the same conditions
which occur with a low fluid level.
In either case, air bubbles can cause overheating
and/or fluid oxidation, and varnishing. This can
interfere with normal valve, clutch, and accumulator
operation. Foaming can also result in fluid escaping
from the transaxle vent where it may be mistaken
for a leak.
FLUID CONDITION
Along with fluid level, it is important to check the
condition of the fluid. When the fluid smells burned,
and is contaminated with metal or friction material
particles, a complete transaxle recondition is proba-
bly required. Be sure to examine the fluid on the dip-
stick closely. If there is any doubt about its condition,
drain out a sample for a double check.
MopartATF+4 (Automatic Transmission Fluid-
Type 9602) when new is red in color. The ATF is dyed
red so it can be identified from other fluids used in
the vehicle such as engine oil or antifreeze. The red
color is not permanent and is not an indicator of fluid
condition. As the vehicle is driven, the ATF will begin
to look darker in color and may eventually become
brown.This is normal.ATF+4 also has a unique
odor that may change with age. Consequently,odor
and color cannot be used to indicate the fluid
condition or the need for a fluid change.
After the fluid has been checked, seat the dipstick
fully to seal out water and dirt.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - FLUID AND FILTER
SERVICE
NOTE: Refer to the maintenance schedules in
LUBRICATION and MAINTENANCE, or the vehicle
owner's manual, for the recommended maintenance
(fluid/filter change) intervals for this transaxle.
NOTE: Only fluids of the type labeled MoparTATF+4
(Automatic Transmission Fluid) Type 9602 should
be used. A filter change should be made at the time
of the transmission oil change. The magnet (on the
inside of the oil pan) should also be cleaned with a
clean, dry cloth.NOTE: If the transaxle is disassembled for any rea-
son, the fluid and filter should be changed.
FLUID/FILTER SERVICE (RECOMMENDED)
(1) Raise vehicle on a hoist. Refer to LUBRICA-
TION and MAINTENANCE for proper procedures.
Place a drain container with a large opening, under
transaxle oil pan.
(2) Loosen pan bolts and tap the pan at one corner
to break it loose allowing fluid to drain, then remove
the oil pan.
(3) Install a new filter and o-ring on bottom of the
valve body (Fig. 212).
(4) Clean the oil pan and magnet. Reinstall pan
using new Mopar Silicone Adhesive sealant. Tighten
oil pan bolts to 19 N´m (165 in. lbs.).
(5) Pour four quarts of MopartATF+4 (Automatic
Transmission Fluid) Type 9602 through the dipstick
opening.
(6) Start engine and allow to idle for at least one
minute. Then, with parking and service brakes
applied, move selector lever momentarily to each
position, ending in the park or neutral position.
Fig. 212 Filter and O-Ring
1 - OIL FILTER
2 - O-RING
21 - 250 41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLERS
FLUID (Continued)
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(8) Position an appropriate piece of Plastigage
across both pump gears.
(9) Align the Plastigage to a flat area on the reac-
tion shaft support housing.
(10) Install the reaction shaft to the pump hous-
ing. Tighten the bolts to 27 N´m (20 ft. lbs.).
(11) Remove bolts and carefully separate the hous-
ings. Measure the Plastigage following the instruc-
tions supplied.
(12) Clearance between outer gear side and the
reaction shaft support should be 0.020-0.046 mm
(0.0008-0.0018 in.). Clearance between inner gear
side and the reaction shaft support should be 0.020-
0.046 mm (0.0008-0.0018 in.).
ASSEMBLY
(1) Assemble oil pump as shown in (Fig. 296)
(2) Install and torque reaction shaft support-to-oil
pump housing bolts to 28 N´m (20 ft. lbs.) torque.
PLANETARY GEARTRAIN
DESCRIPTION
The planetary geartrain is located between the
input clutch assembly and the rear of the transaxle
case. The planetary geartrain consists of two sun
gears, two planetary carriers, two annulus (ring)
gears, and one output shaft (Fig. 297).
OPERATION
The planetary geartrain utilizes two planetary gear
sets that connect the transmission input shaft to the
output shaft. Input and holding clutches drive or lock
different planetary members to change output ratio
or direction.
Fig. 296 Oil Pump Assembly
1 - PUMP HOUSING
2 - OUTER PUMP GEAR
3 - INNER PUMP GEAR
4 - REACTION SHAFT SUPPORT
5 - SEAL RINGS (4)
6 - REACTION SHAFT
7 - CRESCENT
Fig. 297 Planetary Geartrain
1 - FRONT SUN GEAR ASSEMBLY
2 - #6 THRUST BEARING
3 - #7 THRUST BEARING
4 - REAR CARRIER/FRONT ANNULUS ASSEMBLY
5 - REAR SUN GEAR
6 - FRONT CARRIER/REAR ANNULUS ASSEMBLY
21 - 274 41TE AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLERS
OIL PUMP (Continued)
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REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Disconnect the headlamp and dash wire har-
ness connector for the A/C pressure transducer from
the transducer connector receptacle (Fig. 3).
(3) Using an open end wrench, unscrew the A/C
pressure transducer from the fitting on the liquid
line between the filter-drier and the expansion valve.
(4) Remove the seal from the A/C pressure trans-
ducer fitting and discard.
INSTALLATION
(1) Lubricate a new rubber O-ring seal with clean
refrigerant oil and install it on the A/C pressure
transducer fitting.
(2) Using an open end wrench, install and tighten
the A/C pressure transducer onto the fitting on the
liquid line between the filter-drier and the expansion
valve.
(3) Reconnect the headlamp and dash wire harness
connector for the A/C pressure transducer to the
transducer connector receptacle.
(4) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
BLEND DOOR ACTUATOR
DESCRIPTION
The blend door actuators are reversible, 12-volt
Direct Current (DC), servo motors. Models with the
single zone heater and air conditioner system have a
single blend air door, which is controlled by a singleblend door actuator. Models with the optional dual
zone front heater and air conditioner system have
dual blend air doors, which are controlled by two
blend door actuators. The single zone blend door
actuator is located on the driver side end of the heat-
er-A/C housing unit, close to the dash panel. In the
dual zone system, the same blend door actuator used
for the single zone system becomes the passenger
blend door actuator, and is mechanically connected to
only the passenger side blend air door. In the dual
zone system, a second separate blend door actuator is
also located on the driver side end of the heater-A/C
housing unit close to the instrument panel, and is
mechanically connected to only the driver side blend
air door.
The blend door actuators are interchangeable with
each other, as well as with the actuators for the
mode door and the recirculation air door. Each actua-
tor is contained within an identical black molded
plastic housing with an integral wire connector
receptacle. Two integral mounting tabs allow the
actuator to be secured with two screws to the heater-
A/C unit housing. Each actuator also has an identical
output shaft with splines that connects it to the link-
age that drives the proper blend air door. The blend
door actuators do not require mechanical indexing to
the blend door linkage, as they are electronically cal-
ibrated by the heater-A/C control module. The blend
door actuators cannot be adjusted or repaired and, if
damaged or faulty, they must be replaced.
OPERATION
Each blend door actuator is connected to the heat-
er-A/C control module through the vehicle electrical
system by a dedicated two-wire take out and connec-
tor of the HVAC wire harness. The blend door actua-
tor can move the blend air door in two directions.
When the heater-A/C control module pulls the volt-
age on one side of the motor connection high and the
other connection low, the blend air door will move in
one direction. When the module reverses the polarity
of the voltage to the motor, the blend air door moves
in the opposite direction. When the module makes
the voltage to both connections high or both connec-
tions low, the blend air door stops and will not move.
These same motor connections also provide a feed-
back signal to the heater-A/C control module. This
feedback signal allows the module to monitor the
operation and relative positions of the blend door
actuator and the blend air door. The heater-A/C con-
trol module learns the blend air door stop positions
during the calibration procedure and will store a
Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) for any problems it
detects in the blend door actuator circuits. The blend
door actuator can be diagnosed using a DRBIIItscan
tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
Fig. 3 A/C Pressure Transducer
1 - RIGHT FRONT STRUT TOWER
2 - CONNECTOR
3 - A/C PRESSURE TRANSDUCER
4 - RIGHT WIPER MODULE DRAIN TUBE
5 - HIGH SIDE SERVICE PORT
6 - LIQUID LINE
RSCONTROLS - FRONT24-11
A/C PRESSURE TRANSDUCER (Continued)
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BLOWER MOTOR RESISTOR
DESCRIPTION
A blower motor resistor is used on this model when
it is equipped with the manual heater-A/C control
(Fig. 9). Models equipped with the optional Auto-
matic Temperature Control (ATC) use a blower power
module, instead of the blower motor resistor. The
blower motor resistor is installed in a mounting hole
in the heater/AC housing, directly behind the glove
box opening of the instrument panel. The resistor
consists of a molded plastic mounting plate with two
integral connector receptacles. Concealed behind the
mounting plate within the heater/AC housing are
four coiled resistor wires contained within a protec-
tive stamped steel cage. The resistor mounting plate
is secured with two screws to the heater/AC housing
and is accessed for service by rolling down the glove
box from the instrument panel.
The blower motor resistor wires will get hot when
in use. Do not touch the resistor wires or the protec-
tive cage if the blower motor has been running. The
blower motor resistor cannot be adjusted or repaired
and, if faulty or damaged, it must be replaced.
OPERATION
The blower motor resistor is connected to the vehi-
cle electrical system through a dedicated take out
and connector of the instrument panel wire harness.
A second connector receptacle receives the pigtail
wire connector from the blower motor. The blower
motor resistor has multiple resistor wires, each ofwhich will reduce the current flow through the
blower motor to change the blower motor speed. The
blower motor switch in the manual heater-A/C con-
trol directs the ground path for the blower motor
through the correct resistor wire to obtain the
selected speed. With the blower motor switch in the
lowest speed position, the ground path for the motor
is applied through all of the resistor wires. Each
higher speed selected with the blower motor switch
applies the blower motor ground path through fewer
of the resistor wires, increasing the blower motor
speed. When the blower motor switch is in the high-
est speed position, the blower motor resistor wires
are bypassed and the blower motor receives a direct
path to ground through the blower motor switch. The
blower motor resistor may be diagnosed using con-
ventional diagnostic tools and methods.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BLOWER MOTOR
RESISTOR
Refer to the appropriate wiring information. The
wiring information includes wiring diagrams, proper
wire and connector repair procedures, details of wire
harness routing and retention, connector pin-out
information and location views for the various wire
harness connectors, splices and grounds.
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISO-
LATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE,
THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR THE AIRBAG SYS-
TEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PER-
FORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS
IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG
SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRE-
CAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIR-
BAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL
INJURY.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Disconnect the instrument panel wire harness
connector for the blower motor resistor and the
blower motor pigtail wire connector from the resistor
connector receptacles.
(3) Check for continuity between each of the
blower motor switch input terminals of the blower
motor resistor and the resistor output terminal. In
each case there should be continuity. If OK, repair
the instrument panel wire harness circuits between
the blower motor switch and the blower motor resis-
tor or the blower motor pigtail wires as required. If
not OK, replace the faulty blower motor resistor.
Fig. 9 Blower Motor Resistor
1 - BLOWER MOTOR RESISTOR
2 - INSTRUMENT PANEL WIRE HARNESS
3 - SCREW (2)
4 - GLOVE BOX OPENING LOWER REINFORCEMENT
5 - BLOWER MOTOR PIGTAIL WIRE
6 - EVAPORATOR HOUSING
RSCONTROLS - FRONT24-15
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(3) See the fuse and relay layout map molded into
the inner surface of the IPM cover for rear blower
motor relay identification and location.
(4) Remove the rear blower motor relay from the
IPM.
INSTALLATION
(1) See the fuse and relay layout map molded into
the inner surface of the Intelligent Power Module
(IPM) cover for rear blower motor relay identification
and location.
(2) Position the rear blower motor relay to the
proper receptacle in the IPM.
(3) Align the rear blower motor relay terminals
with the terminal cavities in the IPM relay recepta-
cle.
(4) Push down firmly on the rear blower motor
relay until the terminals are fully seated in the ter-
minal cavities in the IPM receptacle.
(5) Install and latch the cover onto the IPM.
(6) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
BLOWER MOTOR RESISTOR
DESCRIPTION
A blower motor resistor is used on this model when
it is equipped with the manual heater-A/C control
(Fig. 8). Models equipped with the optional Auto-
matic Temperature Control (ATC) use a blower power
module, instead of the blower motor resistor. The
blower motor resistor is installed in a mounting hole
on the back of the rear heater-A/C unit housing,
directly above the expansion valve. The resistor con-
sists of a molded plastic mounting plate with an inte-
gral connector receptacle. Concealed behind the
mounting plate within the rear heater-A/C unit hous-
ing are two coiled resistor wires contained within a
protective stamped steel cage. The resistor mounting
plate is secured with two screws to the rear heater-
A/C unit housing and is accessed for service by
removing the right quarter and D-pillar trim panels.
The blower motor resistor wires will get hot when
in use. Do not touch the resistor wires or the protec-
tive cage if the blower motor has been running. The
blower motor resistor cannot be adjusted or repaired
and, if faulty or damaged, it must be replaced.
OPERATION
The blower motor resistor is connected to the vehi-
cle electrical system through a dedicated take out
and connector of the rear HVAC wire harness. The
blower motor resistor has two resistor wires, each of
which will reduce the current flow through the
blower motor to change the blower motor speed. The
blower motor switch in the manual heater-A/C con-trol directs the ground path for the blower motor
through the correct resistor wire to obtain the
selected speed. With the blower motor switch in the
lowest speed position, the ground path for the motor
is applied through both resistor wires. Each higher
speed selected with the blower motor switch applies
the blower motor ground path through fewer of the
resistor wires, increasing the blower motor speed.
When the blower motor switch is in the highest
speed position, the blower motor resistor wires are
bypassed and the blower motor receives a direct path
to ground through the blower motor switch. The
blower motor resistor may be diagnosed using con-
ventional diagnostic tools and methods.
Fig. 8 Blower Motor Resistor
1 - REAR HEATER-A/C UNIT HOUSING
2 - D-PILLAR
3 - BLOWER PIGTAIL WIRE
4 - CONNECTOR
5 - EXPANSION VALVE
6 - SCREW (2)
7 - BLOWER MOTOR RESISTOR
24 - 34 CONTROLS - REARRS
BLOWER MOTOR RELAY (Continued)
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CAUTION: All tools, including the refrigerant recy-
cling equipment, the manifold gauge set, and test
hoses should be kept clean and dry. Keep the work
area clean. Contamination of the refrigerant system
through careless work habits must be avoided. The
refrigerant system will remain chemically stable as
long as pure, moisture-free R-134a refrigerant and
refrigerant oil is used. Dirt, moisture, or air can
upset this chemical stability. Operational troubles
or serious damage can occur if foreign material is
introduced to the refrigerant system.
COMPRESSOR
DESCRIPTION
The compressor used on this vehicle can be one of
two models, depending upon the air conditioning sys-
tem in the vehicle. All vehicles use the Nippondenso
10S20 compressor. This compressor use an aluminum
swash plate, teflon coated pistons and aluminum
sleeveless cylinder walls. This compressor includes
an integral high pressure relief valve. The compres-
sor is secured low in the right front corner of the
engine compartment to a mounting bracket on the
cylinder block (2.4L engine), or directly to the cylin-
der block (3.3L and 3.8L engines) is integral to the
compressor. This compressor cannot be repaired. If
faulty or damaged, the entire compressor must be
replaced. The compressor clutch, pulley, and clutch
coil are available for service replacement.
OPERATION
The compressor is driven by the engine through an
electric clutch, drive pulley and belt arrangement.
The compressor is lubricated by refrigerant oil that is
circulated throughout the refrigerant system with the
refrigerant. The compressor draws in low-pressure
refrigerant vapor from the evaporator through its
suction port. It then compresses the refrigerant into
a high-pressure, high-temperature refrigerant vapor.
The compressor pumps high-pressure refrigerant
vapor to the condenser through the compressor dis-
charge port. The mechanical high pressure relief
valve is designed to vent refrigerant from the system
to protect against damage to the compressor or other
system components, caused by condenser air flow
restrictions or an overcharge of refrigerant. The valve
only vents enough refrigerant to reduce the system
pressure, then re-seats itself. The valve opens at a
discharge pressure of 3445 to 4135 kPA (500 to 600
psi) or above, and closes when a minimum discharge
pressure of 2756 kPa (400 psi) is reached.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - COMPRESSOR
NOISE DIAGNOSIS
Excessive noise while the air conditioning compres-
sor is operating can be caused by loose compressor
mounts, a loose compressor clutch, or high operating
pressures in the refrigerant system. Verify compres-
sor drive belt condition, proper compressor mounting,
correct refrigerant charge level, and compressor head
pressure before compressor repair is performed.
With the close tolerances within the compressor, it
is possible to experience a temporary lockup. The
longer the compressor is inactive, the more likely the
condition is to occur. This condition is the result of
normal refrigerant migration within the refrigerant
system caused by ambient temperature changes. The
refrigerant migration may wash the refrigerant oil
out of the compressor.
NOTE: Prior to a vehicle being removed from ser-
vice or stored for more than two weeks, the com-
pressor should be operated to ensure adequate
refrigerant oil distribution throughout the system
components. Turn on the air conditioner for a min-
imum of five minutes with outside air and the high-
est blower speed selected.
BELT NOISE
If the compressor drive belt slips at initial start-up,
it does not necessarily mean the compressor has
failed. The following procedure can be used to iden-
tify a compressor drive belt noise problem.
²Start the vehicle and run at idle.
²Turn the air conditioner On and listen for belt
squeal.
²If belt squeal is heard, turn the air conditioner
Off immediately.
If the belt squeal stops when the air conditioner is
turned Off, perform the following repair procedures.
(1) Using an appropriate sized oil filter wrench or
a strap wrench, grasp the outer diameter of the com-
pressor clutch hub. While facing the compressor,
rotate the hub clockwise, then counterclockwise. If
the hub rotates, proceed to the next step. If the hub
will not rotate, the compressor is internally damaged,
and must be replaced.
(2) Turn the hub clockwise five complete revolu-
tions and remove the tool.
(3) Start the vehicle and run at idle.
(4) Turn the air conditioner On. Observe the com-
pressor and the system for normal operation, noting
cooling performance and noise levels. Operate for five
minutes before turning the air conditioner Off. If
acceptable cooling performance is observed during
compressor operation, the compressor does not need
to be replaced.
24 - 62 PLUMBING - FRONTRS
PLUMBING - FRONT (Continued)
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