wheel size CHRYSLER CARAVAN 2003 User Guide
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Page 1428 of 2177

CAUTION: Proper torque on the cradle reinforce-
ment to suspension cradle mounting bolts is very
important.
(7) Install the reinforcement on the front suspen-
sion cradle crossmember and install the bolts attach-
ing the reinforcement to the cradle crossmember
(Fig. 6). Tighten the M-14 size bolts to a torque of
153 N´m (113 ft. lbs.). Tighten the M-12 size bolts to
a torque of 106 N´m (78 ft. lbs.).
(8) Install the lower control arm rear bushing
retainer bolts (M-10 size) through reinforcement on
each side of each lower control arm rear bushing.
Tighten bolts to a torque of 61 N´m (45 ft. lbs.).
(9) Install the two bolts and bushings attaching
the reinforcement and rear of cradle crossmember to
body of vehicle (Fig. 6). Tighten bolts to a torque of
163 N´m (120 ft. lbs.).
(10) Install outer tie rod end into steering knuckle.
Start outer tie rod to steering knuckle attaching nut
onto stud of tie rod end. While holding stud of tie rod
end stationary using a socket (Fig. 4), tighten tie rod
end to steering knuckle attaching nut. Then using a
crowfoot and socket (Fig. 13), tighten the tie rod end
attaching nut to a torque of 75 N´m (55 ft. lbs.).
(11) Install leak detection pump on cradle cross-
member reinforcement. (Refer to 25 - EMISSIONS
CONTROL/EVAPORATIVE EMISSIONS/LEAK
DETECTION PUMP - INSTALLATION)
(12) Install the power steering fluid cooler on the
cradle crossmember reinforcement (Fig. 3). Install
the mounting bolts and tighten to 11 N´m (100 in.
lbs.). When installing mounting bolts, include pres-
sure hose routing clamp.(13) Reconnect previously disconnected hose at
power steering cooler and install clamp.
(14) Install the front tire and wheel assemblies on
vehicle. Install the wheel lug nuts and torque to 135
N´m (100 ft. lbs.).
(15) Install front emissions vapor canister. (Refer
to 25 - EMISSIONS CONTROL/EVAPORATIVE
EMISSIONS/VAPOR CANISTER - INSTALLATION)
(16) Lower the vehicle to a level where the interior
of vehicle is accessible.
(17) With the wheels pointed approximately
STRAIGHT-AHEAD, align the intermediate shaft
with the steering column coupler. Assemble the steer-
ing column shaft coupler onto the steering gear inter-
mediate coupler (Fig. 2). Install steering column
coupler to intermediate shaft retaining pinch bolt.
Tighten the pinch bolt nut to a torque of 28 N´m (250
in. lbs.).
(18) Remove the steering wheel holding tool.
(19) Fill and bleed the power steering system
using the Power Steering Pump Initial Operation
Procedure. (Refer to 19 - STEERING/PUMP - STAN-
DARD PROCEDURE)
(20) Inspect system for leaks.
(21) Adjust front toe (Refer to 2 - SUSPENSION/
WHEEL ALIGNMENT - STANDARD PROCEDURE).
INSTALLATION - RHD GEAR
(1) Install the steering gear up in the front sus-
pension cradle crossmember, leaving room to install
intermediate coupler.
(2) Start the roll pin into the intermediate coupler
before installing coupler on steering gear shaft. Start
roll pin into coupler, using a hammer and tapping it
into the coupler. Then install the intermediate cou-
pler on the shaft of the steering gear.
(3) Install Remover/Installer Special Tool 6831A
through the center of the roll pin, securing it with
the knurled nut (Fig. 12). Hold threaded rod station-
ary while turning nut. This will pull the roll pin into
the intermediate coupler.
(4) Install power steering gear on the front suspen-
sion cradle. Install the 2 steering gear mounting
bolts and nuts. Tighten the M-14 size steering gear
to suspension cradle mounting bolt to a torque of 183
N´m (135 ft. lbs.). Tighten the M-12 size steering
gear to suspension cradle mounting bolt to a torque
of 95 N´m (70 ft. lbs.).
CAUTION: Proper torque on the steering gear to
suspension cradle mounting bolts is very impor-
tant.
(5) Install the heat shield on the steering gear
(Fig. 10).
(6) Attach the power steering fluid pressure and
return hoses to the proper fittings on the steering
Fig. 13 Torquing Tie Rod End Attaching Nut
1 - STEERING KNUCKLE
2 - TIE ROD END
3 - CROWFOOT
4 - SOCKET
5 - TORQUE WRENCH
RSGEAR19-33
GEAR (Continued)
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Page 1429 of 2177

gear (Fig. 10). Do not fully tighten the fittings at this
time.
(7) Install the routing clamp with the bolt securing
the power steering fluid hoses to the rear of the cra-
dle crossmember (Fig. 11).
(8) Using a crowfoot wrench on a torque wrench,
tighten the power steering fluid hose tube nuts at the
gear to a torque of 31 N´m (275 in. lbs.).
(9) Install tie rod end into steering knuckle. Start
tie rod end to steering knuckle attaching nut onto
stud of tie rod end. While holding stud of tie rod end
stationary using a socket (Fig. 4), tighten tie rod end
to steering knuckle attaching nut. Then using a
crowfoot and socket (Fig. 13), tighten the tie rod end
attaching nut to a torque of 75 N´m (55 ft. lbs.).
(10) If the vehicle is equipped with All-Wheel-
Drive, install the power transfer unit (Refer to 21 -
TRANSMISSION/TRANSAXLE/POWER TRANSFER
UNIT - INSTALLATION).
CAUTION: Proper torque on the cradle reinforce-
ment to suspension cradle mounting bolts is very
important.
(11) Install the reinforcement on the front suspen-
sion cradle crossmember and install the bolts attach-
ing the reinforcement to the cradle crossmember
(Fig. 6). Tighten the M-14 size bolts to a torque of
163 N´m (120 ft. lbs.). Tighten the M-12 size bolts to
a torque of 108 N´m (80 ft. lbs.).
(12) Install the lower control arm rear bushing
retainer bolts through reinforcement on each side of
each lower control arm rear bushing. Tighten bolts to
a torque of 61 N´m (45 ft. lbs.).
(13) Install the two bolts and bushings attaching
the reinforcement and rear of cradle crossmember to
body of vehicle (Fig. 6). Tighten bolts to a torque of
163 N´m (120 ft. lbs.).
(14) If power steering cooler equipped, install the
previously disconnected power steering cooler hose on
the cooler. Install the clamp.
(15) If power steering cooler equipped, install the
power steering fluid cooler on the cradle crossmem-
ber reinforcement (Fig. 3). Install the mounting bolts
and tighten to 11 N´m (100 in. lbs.).
(16) Install the front tire and wheel assemblies on
vehicle. Install the wheel mounting lug nuts and
tighten to a torque to 135 N´m (100 ft. lbs.).
(17) Lower the vehicle to a level were the interior
of vehicle is accessible (keeping tires off the ground).
(18) With the wheels pointed approximately
STRAIGHT-AHEAD, align the intermediate shaft
with the steering column coupler. Assemble the steer-
ing column shaft coupler onto the steering gear inter-
mediate coupler (Fig. 2). Install steering column
coupler to intermediate shaft retaining pinch bolt.Tighten the pinch bolt nut to a torque of 28 N´m (250
in. lbs.).
(19) Remove the steering wheel holding tool.
(20) Perform the POWER STEERING PUMP INI-
TIAL OPERATION procedure to properly fill and
bleed the power steering system. (Refer to 19 -
STEERING/PUMP - STANDARD PROCEDURE)
(21) Inspect for leaks.
(22) Adjust front wheel toe (Refer to 2 - SUSPEN-
SION/WHEEL ALIGNMENT - STANDARD PROCE-
DURE).
SPECIAL TOOLS
POWER STEERING GEAR
OUTER TIE ROD
REMOVAL
(1) Loosen inner tie rod to outer tie rod jam nut
(Fig. 14).
(2) Remove nut attaching outer tie rod end to
steering knuckle (Fig. 15). The nut is to be removed
from tie rod end by holding tie rod end stud with a
11/32 socket while loosening and removing nut with a
wrench.
(3) Remove the tie rod end stud from steering
knuckle arm, using Remover, Special Tool C-3894±A
(Fig. 16).
(4) Remove outer tie rod end by un-threading it
from the inner tie rod.
INSTALLATION
NOTE: Before installing the outer tie rod, make sure
the jam nut is on inner tie rod (Fig. 14).
Puller C-3894A
Remover/Installer Steering Shaft Roll Pin 6831A
19 - 34 GEARRS
GEAR (Continued)
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Page 1498 of 2177

INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION - 2.4L GAS
(1) Install modular clutch assembly to transaxle.
Assemble transaxle to engine.
(2) Install and torque transaxle-to-engine bolts to
95 N´m (70 ft. lbs.).
(3) Raise transaxle/engine assembly into position
and install upper mount through-bolt. Torque
through-bolt to 75 N´m (55 ft. lbs.).
(4) Remove screw jack.
(5) Install and torque modular clutch assembly-to-
drive plate bolts to 88 N´m (65 ft. lbs.)
(6) Install structural collar.
(7) Connect back-up lamp switch connector.
(8) Install starter motor into position (Fig. 78).
Install and torque bolts to 54 N´m (40 ft. lbs.).
(9) Install engine front mount bracket. Install and
torque bracket-to-transaxle bolts to 102 N´m (75 ft.
lbs.). Install and torque bracket-to-engine bolts to 68
N´m (50 ft. lbs.). Torque through-bolt and nut to 68
N´m (50 ft. lbs.).(10) Install clutch slave cylinder into position, not-
ing orientation of different sized lugs (Fig. 79). While
depressing inward, rotate slave cylinder clockwise
60tÉ into position until nylon locating tab rests
within transaxle case cutout, and hydraulic tube is
vertical. Connect ªquick-connectº connection until an
audible ªclickº is heard. Verify connection by pulling
outward on connection.
(11) Install halfshafts and front wheel/tire assem-
blies. (Refer to 3 - DIFFERENTIAL & DRIVELINE/
HALF SHAFT - INSTALLATION)
(12) Lower vehicle.
Fig. 78 Starter Motor Removal/Installation
1 - STARTER MOTOR
2 - BOLT (3)
Fig. 79 Slave Cylinder Removal/Installation
1 - MOUNTING HOLE
2 - SLAVE CYLINDER
3 - ACCESS HOLE
4 - NYLON ANTI-ROTATION TAB
5 - QUICK CONNECT
RST850 MANUAL TRANSAXLE21-51
T850 MANUAL TRANSAXLE (Continued)
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Page 1501 of 2177

(8) Install engine front mount bracket. Install and
torque bracket-to-transaxle bolts to 102 N´m (75 ft.
lbs.). Install and torque bracket-to-engine bolts to 68
N´m (50 ft. lbs.). Torque through-bolt and nut to 68
N´m (50 ft. lbs.).
(9) Install clutch slave cylinder into position, not-
ing orientation of different sized lugs (Fig. 85). While
depressing inward, rotate slave cylinder clockwise
60É into position until nylon locating tab rests within
transaxle case cutout, and hydraulic tube is vertical.
Connect ªquick-connectº connection until an audible
ªclickº is heard. Verify connection by pulling outward
on connection.
(10) Install underbody splash panel.
(11) Install halfshafts and front wheel/tire assem-
blies. (Refer to 3 - DIFFERENTIAL & DRIVELINE/
HALF SHAFT - INSTALLATION)
(12) Lower vehicle.
(13) Install right mount bracket to transaxle (Fig.
86).
(14) Connect gearshift cables to shift levers/cover
assembly (Fig. 87). Install cables into position at
mount bracket and secure with retaining clips.
Fig. 85 Slave Cylinder Removal/Installation
1 - MOUNTING HOLE
2 - SLAVE CYLINDER
3 - ACCESS HOLE
4 - NYLON ANTI-ROTATION TAB
5 - QUICK CONNECT
Fig. 86 Transaxle Right Mount and Bracket
1 - MOUNT BRACKET
2 - BOLT (3)
3 - MOUNT
4 - BOLT (1)
Fig. 87 Gearshift Cables at Transaxle
1 - SELECTOR CABLE
2 - CABLE RETAINER
3 - CABLE RETAINER
4 - CROSSOVER CABLE
5 - MOUNT BRACKET
21 - 54 T850 MANUAL TRANSAXLERS
T850 MANUAL TRANSAXLE (Continued)
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If a road tire is replaced by the spare, the TPM
system will detect the swap and the message9SPARE
TIRE IN USE? Y/N9(along with a chime) will be dis-
played.
For further information, refer to the Owners Man-
ual or the Appropriate Diagnostic Information.
TPM THRESHOLD PRESSURES
High Pressure ON Threshold 48 PSI (331 kPa)
High Pressure OFF Threshold 43 PSI (296 kPa)
Placard Pressure (Cold) 36 PSI (248 kPa)
Low Pressure OFF Threshold 33 PSI (228 kPa)
Low Pressure ON Threshold 28 PSI (193 kPa)
SENSOR - TPM
DESCRIPTION
On vehicles equipped with Tire Pressure Monitor-
ing, one tire pressure sensor is mounted to each
wheel (Fig. 19). Each sensor has an internal battery
that lasts up to 10 years. The battery is not service-
able. At the time of battery failure, the sensor must
be replaced. The serviceable components of the tire
pressure sensor are:
²Sensor-To-Wheel Grommet
²Valve Stem Cap
²Valve Stem Core
Valve stem caps and cores are specifically designed
for the tire pressure monitoring sensors. Although
similar to standard valve stem caps and cores, they
are different.
CAUTION: Do not use a standard valve stem cap or
core in a tire pressure sensor. Always use the orig-
inal equipment style sensor cap and core.
CAUTION: Do not reuse the Sensor-To Wheel Grom-
met. Always use a new grommet when installing a
pressure sensor and properly torque the sensor
nut.
CAUTION: Do not try to install a tire pressure sen-
sor in a steel wheel or aftermarket wheel. Use only
in original style factory wheels.
OPERATION
Tire pressure sensors are battery operated. They
transmit tire pressure data once every minute at
speeds above 20 mph (32 km/h) or up to once every
hour when stationary (parked). For additional infor-
mation, refer to Appropriate Diagnostic Information.
CAUTION
CAUTION: The use of tire sealants is strictly prohib-
ited for vehicles equipped with the Tire Pressure
Monitoring system. Tire sealants can clog tire pres-
sure sensors.
CAUTION: Tire pressure sensor valve stem caps
and cores are specially designed for the sensors.
Due to risk of corrosion, do not use a standard
valve stem cap or core in a tire pressure sensor in
place of the original equipment style sensor cap
and core.
CAUTION: Do not attempt to install a tire pressure
sensor in a steel wheel or aftermarket wheel. Use
tire pressure sensors in original style factory
wheels only.
NOTE: TPM thresholds have been established for
the original tire size equipped on the vehicle. Use
original size tires only to maintain system accuracy.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - TIRE PRESSURE
SENSOR
NOTE: Tire pressure may increase from 2 to 6 psi
(14 to 41 kPa) during normal driving conditions. Do
NOT reduce this normal pressure build up.
If a fault in the system is detected, always check
air pressure in the tires first with a known accurate
air gauge and correct the inflation pressure. If any
tire is low, inspectalltires.
If gauge-read pressure in the tires does not reflect
the reading on the EVIC, retrain the sensors, then
reevaluate (Refer to 22 - TIRES/WHEELS/TIRE
PRESSURE MONITORING/SENSOR - STANDARD
PROCEDURE). Refer to the appropriate diagnostic
information for complete diagnosis of the Tire Pres-
sure Monitoring System.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - TIRE PRESSURE
SENSOR RETRAIN
WARNING: DEATH OR SERIOUS INJURY CAN
OCCUR IF MAGNETICALLY SENSITIVE DEVICES
ARE EXPOSED TO THE RELEARN MAGNET. MAG-
NETS CAN AFFECT PACEMAKERS.
22 - 10 TIRES/WHEELSRS
TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING (Continued)
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TIRES
DESCRIPTION
DESCRIPTION - TIRE
Tires are designed and engineered for each specific
vehicle. They provide the best overall performance
for normal operation. The ride and handling charac-
teristics match the vehicle's requirements. With
proper care they will give excellent reliability, trac-
tion, skid resistance, and tread life.
Driving habits have more effect on tire life than
any other factor. Careful drivers will obtain, in most
cases, much greater mileage than severe use or care-
less drivers. A few of the driving habits which will
shorten the life of any tire are:
²Rapid acceleration
²Severe application of brakes
²High-speed driving
²Taking turns at excessive speeds
²Striking curbs and other obstacles
²Operating vehicle with over or under inflated
tire pressures
Radial ply tires are more prone to irregular tread
wear. It is important to follow the tire rotation inter-
val shown in the section on Tire Rotation. This will
help to achieve a greater tread-life potential.
TIRE IDENTIFICATION
Tire type, size, load index and speed rating are
encoded in the letters and numbers imprinted on the
side wall of the tire. Refer to the Tire Identification
chart to decipher the code. For example purposes, the
tire size P225/60 R 16 97 T is used in the chart. An
All Season type tire will also have eitherM+S,M&
SorM-S(indicating mud and snow traction)
imprinted on the side wall. An Extra or Light Load
marking ªXLº or ªLLº may also be listed on the side-
wall. The absence of an ªXLº or ªLLº marking infers
a standard load tire.
TIRE IDENTIFICATION
PTIRE TYPE (Not
present on all tires)P - Passenger
T - Temporary
C - Commercial
LT - Light Truck
225SECTIONAL WIDTHSHOWN IN
MILLIMETERS
60ASPECT RATIOSECTIONAL HEIGHT
÷ SECTIONAL WIDTH
(Refer to Aspect Ratio
Figure 22 )
Fig. 20 Mounting Tire Using Rotating Wheel
Machine
1 - HEAD OF CHANGER LOCATED HERE
2 - VALVE STEM
Fig. 21 Mounting Tire Using Rotating Tool Machine
1 - VALVE STEM
2 - MOUNTING END OF TOOL
3 - BEAD BREAKER (KEEP CLEAR OF SENSOR)
RSTIRES/WHEELS22-13
SENSOR - TPM (Continued)
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RCONSTRUCTION
TYPER - RADIAL
B - BIAS BELTED
D - DIAGONAL (BIAS)
16WHEEL DIAMETER SHOWN IN INCHES
97LOAD INDEX *
TSPEED RATING *
* NOTE: Consult the tire manufacturer regarding
any questions on tire specifications or capabilities.
TIRE CHAINS
Refer to the owners manual supplied with the vehi-
cle to determine whether the use of tire chains is per-
mitted on this vehicle.
DESCRIPTION - RADIAL-PLY TIRES
Radial-ply tires improve handling, tread life, ride
quality and decrease rolling resistance.
Radial-ply tires must always be used in sets of four
and under no circumstances should they be used on
the front only. It is recommended that tires from dif-
ferent manufacturers NOT be mixed. They may be
mixed with a temporary spare tire when necessary. A
maximum speed of 80 km/h (50 mph) is recom-
mended while a temporary spare is in use.
Radial-ply tires have the same load-carrying capac-
ity as other types of tires of the same size. They also
use the same recommended inflation pressures.
DESCRIPTION - REPLACEMENT TIRES
WARNING: FAILURE TO EQUIP THE VEHICLE WITH
TIRES HAVING ADEQUATE SPEED CAPABILITY
CAN RESULT IN SUDDEN TIRE FAILURE.It is recommended that tires equivalent to the orig-
inal equipment tires be used when replacement is
needed.
Failure to use equivalent replacement tires may
adversely affect the safety and handling of the vehi-
cle.
The original equipment tires provide a proper com-
bination of many characteristics such as:
²Ride
²Noise
²Handling
²Durability
²Tread life
²Traction
²Rolling resistance
²Speed capability
The use of tires smaller than the minimum tire
size approved for the vehicle can result in tire over-
loading and failure.
Use tires that have the approved load rating for
the vehicle and never overload them. Failure to equip
the vehicle with tires having adequate speed capabil-
ity can result in sudden tire failure and loss of vehi-
cle control.
The use of oversize tires may cause interference
with vehicle components. Under extremes of suspen-
sion and steering travel, interference with vehicle
components may cause tire damage.
DESCRIPTION - SPARE TIRE (TEMPORARY)
The temporary (convenience) spare tire is designed
for emergency use only. The original tire should be
repaired and reinstalled, or replaced with a new, at
the first opportunity.
The temporary (convenience) spare tire should be
inflated to the pressure listed on its sidewall. Do not
exceed speeds of 80 km/h (50 mph) when the tempo-
rary spare tire is in use on the vehicle. Refer to the
Owner's Manual for more details.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - TIRE NOISE
Unusual tire noise can be associated with tire and
wheel vibration or irregular tire wear. For vibration,
(Refer to 22 - TIRES/WHEELS - DIAGNOSIS AND
TESTING). For irregular tire wear, (Refer to 22 -
TIRES/WHEELS/TIRES - DIAGNOSIS AND TEST-
ING).
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - TIRE/VEHICLE
LEAD
Use the following Vehicle Lead Diagnosis And Cor-
rection Chart to diagnose and correct a vehicle lead
or drift problem.
Fig. 22 Tire Aspect Ratio
1 - SECTIONAL WIDTH
2 - SECTIONAL HEIGHT
22 - 14 TIRES/WHEELSRS
TIRES (Continued)
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Care must be taken in the selection of tire and
wheel cleaning chemicals and equipment to prevent
damage to the wheels. Any of the ªDO NOT USEº
items listed below WILL damage chrome plated and
painted aluminum wheels.
DO NOT USE:
²any abrasive metal cleaner
²any abrasive cleaning pad or brush
²any cleaner that contains an acid (this will
immediately react with and discolor the chromium
surface)
²chrome polish (unless it is buffed off immedi-
ately after application)
²oven cleaner
²a car wash that uses carbide-tipped wheel clean-
ing brushes
SPECIFICATIONS
WHEEL
SPECIFICATIONS
DESCRIPTION SPECIFICATION
Wheel Mounting (Lug)
Nut Hex Size19 mm
Wheel Mounting Stud
SizeM12 x 1.5 mm
TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS
DESCRIPTION N´mFt.
Lbs.In.
Lbs.
TPM Sensor Mounting Nut 4 Ð 35
Wheel Mounting (Lug ) Nut 135 100 Ð
WHEEL COVER
DESCRIPTION
This vehicle uses a bolt-on type wheel cover (Fig.
30).
This bolt-on wheel cover cannot be removed from
the wheel until three of the five wheel mounting nuts
shown are removed (Fig. 30). The bolt-on wheel cover
can then be removed with the remaining two wheel
nuts tightened in place.
REMOVAL
(1) Noting the location of the valve stem in rela-
tionship to the wheel mounting nuts, remove the
three wheel mounting nuts securing the wheel cover
to the wheel and hub (Fig. 30).
CAUTION: When removing the wheel cover, do not
pry the wheel cover from the wheel. This can resultin damage to the wheel cover. The wheel cover is
removed by pulling it off the wheel by hand.
(2) Grasp the wheel cover at the edges in line with
the remaining installed wheel nuts and pull straight
outward from the wheel. This will pop the wheel
cover retaining tabs over the two remaining wheel
nuts, removing the wheel cover from the wheel.
INSTALLATION
NOTE: Wheel mounting nuts must be installed on
the studs as shown to allow installation of the
wheel cover (Fig. 31).
Fig. 30 Nuts Securing Wheel Cover
1 - VALVE STEM
2 - BOLT-ON WHEEL COVER
3 - NUTS SECURING WHEEL COVER
Fig. 31 Two Wheel Mounting Nuts Installed
1 - WHEEL
2 - VALVE STEM
3 - HUB PILOT
4 - NUTS
RSTIRES/WHEELS22-19
WHEELS (Continued)
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Page 2069 of 2177

the notched area between the upper and lower hous-
ing halves.
(3) Install and tighten the twelve screws around
the perimeter of the evaporator housing that secure
the upper housing half to the lower half. Tighten the
screws to 2 N´m (18 in. lbs.).
(4) Position the upper half of the recirculation air
door onto the lower half of the door.
(5) Install and tighten the two screws that secure
the upper half of the recirculation air door to the
lower half of the door. Tighten the screws to 2 N´m
(18 in. lbs.).
(6) Position the upper intake air housing onto the
top of the evaporator housing over the recirculation
air door and the blower wheel housing. Be certain
that the upper pivot of the recirculation air door is
captured in the pivot receptacle of the upper intake
air housing.
(7) Install and tighten the three screws that secure
the upper intake air housing to the top of the out-
board end of the evaporator housing. Be certain not
to miss the screw located just inside the inboard side
of the fresh air intake opening. Tighten the screws to
2 N´m (18 in. lbs.).
(8) Install and tighten the two screws that secure
the upper intake air housing to the lower intake air
housing. Tighten the screws to 2 N´m (18 in. lbs.).
(9) Engage the two hook formations on the bottom
of the distribution housing in the two receptacles on
the evaporator housing.
(10) Roll the top of the distribution housing up
into position against the evaporator housing.
(11) Install and tighten the three screws from the
dash panel side of the unit that secure the top of the
distribution housing to the inboard end of the evapo-
rator housing. Tighten the screws to 2 N´m (18 in.
lbs.).
(12) Engage the HVAC wire harness in the routing
clips molded into the outside of the HVAC housing
components.
(13) Reconnect the HVAC wire harness connector
for the blower motor with the motor connector recep-
tacle on the bottom of the outboard end of the evap-
orator housing.
(14) Reinstall the expansion valve onto the evapo-
rator inlet and outlet tube fittings. (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
FRONT/EXPANSION VALVE - INSTALLATION).
(15) Install a new foam seal onto the HVAC hous-
ing seal flange around the fresh air inlet opening and
the expansion valve/evaporator tube opening on the
dash panel side of the unit.
(16) Reinstall the heater core tubes into the heater
core. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITION-
ING/PLUMBING - FRONT/HEATER CORE -
INSTALLATION - HEATER CORE TUBES).(17) Reinstall the HVAC unit housing into the
vehicle. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING/DISTRIBUTION - FRONT/HVAC HOUS-
ING - INSTALLATION).
(18) Run the HVAC Control Actuator Calibration
procedure(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING)(Refer to 24
- HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING - DIAGNOSIS
AND TESTING).
EXPANSION VALVE
DESCRIPTION
The front ªHº valve-type thermal expansion valve
(TXV) is located at the dash panel between the liquid
and suction lines, and the evaporator coil. The
assembly consists of an H-valve body and a thermal
sensor. High-pressure, low temperature liquid refrig-
erant from the liquid line passes through the expan-
sion valve orifice, converting it into a low-pressure,
low-temperature mixture of liquid and gas before it
enters the evaporator coil. The expansion valve is a
factory calibrated unit and cannot be adjusted or
repaired. If faulty or damaged, the expansion valve
must be replaced.
OPERATION
A mechanical sensor in the expansion valve control
head monitors the temperature and pressure of the
refrigerant leaving the evaporator coil through the
suction line, and adjusts the orifice size at the liquid
line to let the proper amount of refrigerant into the
evaporator coil to meet the vehicle cooling require-
ments. Controlling the refrigerant flow through the
evaporator ensures that none of the refrigerant leav-
ing the evaporator is still in a liquid state, which
could damage the compressor. The thermo sensor
measures refrigerant suction gas temperature which
is monitored by the a/c control assembly.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - EXPANSION VALVE
WARNING: REFER TO THE APPLICABLE WARN-
INGS AND CAUTIONS FOR THIS SYSTEM BEFORE
PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING OPERATION.
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - FRONT - WARNING - A/C PLUMBING)
and (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - FRONT - CAUTION - A/C PLUMBING).
NOTE: The expansion valve should only be tested
following testing of the compressor.
24 - 72 PLUMBING - FRONTRS
EVAPORATOR (Continued)
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Page 2075 of 2177

on the front of the shield are engaged in the recepta-
cles in the two lower finger formations of the evapo-
rator housing near the dash panel.
(8) Install and tighten the three screws that secure
the heater core shield to the left end of the HVAC
distribution housing. Tighten the screws to 2 N´m (17
in. lbs.).
(9) Reinstall the silencer under the driver side end
of the instrument panel. (Refer to 23 - BODY/IN-
STRUMENT PANEL/INSTRUMENT PANEL
SILENCER - INSTALLATION).
(10) Reconnect the heater hoses to the heater hose
tubes. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITION-
ING/PLUMBING - FRONT/HEATER HOSE -
INSTALLATION).
(11) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
(12) Refill the engine cooling system. (Refer to 7 -
COOLING - STANDARD PROCEDURE - COOLING
SYSTEM REFILL).
INSTALLATION - HEATER CORE
WARNING: REFER TO THE APPLICABLE WARN-
INGS AND CAUTIONS FOR THIS SYSTEM BEFORE
PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING OPERATION.
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING FRONT - WARNING - HEATER PLUMB-
ING).
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) While pushing the brake pedal downward and
pulling the accelerator pedal upward far enough for
clearance, slide the heater core into the distribution
housing.
(2) Install and tighten the two screws that secure
the heater core mounting plate to the distribution
housing. Tighten the screws to 2 N´m (17 in. lbs.).
(3) Remove the plugs or tape from the heater core
tube fittings and both heater core ports.
(4) Position both heater core tubes and the sealing
plate simultaneously to the heater core supply and
return ports.(5) The heater core tubes each have a slot that
must be indexed to a location tab within each of the
heater core ports. Adjust the position of the tubes as
required so that the sealing plate fits flush against
the heater core supply and return ports, which indi-
cates that the tubes are properly indexed.
(6) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
heater core tube sealing plate to the heater core sup-
ply and return ports. Tighten the screw to 3 N´m (27
in. lbs.).
(7) Position the heater core shield onto the distri-
bution housing. Be certain that the two location tabs
on the front of the shield are engaged in the recepta-
cles in the two lower finger formations of the evapo-
rator housing near the dash panel.
(8) Install and tighten the three screws that secure
the heater core shield to the left end of the HVAC
distribution housing. Tighten the screws to 2 N´m (17
in. lbs.).
(9) Reconnect the power brake booster input rod
(push rod) to the pin on the brake pedal arm(Refer to
5 - BRAKES/HYDRAULIC/MECHANICAL/POWER
BRAKE BOOSTER - INSTALLATION).
(10) Reinstall the brake lamp switch into its
mounting bracket(Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/LAMPS/
LIGHTING - EXTERIOR/BRAKE LAMP SWITCH -
INSTALLATION).
(11) Reinstall the silencer boot around the base of
the lower steering shaft on the dash panel.
(12) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
(13) Refill the engine cooling system. (Refer to 7 -
COOLING - STANDARD PROCEDURE - COOLING
SYSTEM REFILL).
(14) Operate system for two thermostat cycles to
assure elimination of air in the system.
HEATER HOSE
REMOVAL
There are several heater core plumbing configura-
tions used on this model, depending upon the engine
size and other optional equipment. One plumbing
configuration is used for all 2.4L engines (Fig. 21),
while the 3.3L and 3.8L engines have unique heater
return plumbing on the engine for models with or
without an optional engine oil cooler (Fig. 24) or (Fig.
25). There are also unique plumbing configurations
at the heater core for models with or without the
optional rear heater and air conditioner (Fig. 22) or
(Fig. 23). All models use a combination of formed
steel tubing and rubber hoses. In most cases, the
rubber hose is secured to the steel tubing with a
spring tension clamp.
24 - 78 PLUMBING - FRONTRS
HEATER CORE (Continued)
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