warning CHRYSLER VOYAGER 1996 Service Manual
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Page 1860 of 1938

EVAPORATOR AND EXPANSION VALVE
NOTE: Special effort must be used to keep all
R-134a system components moisture-free. Moisture
in the oil is very difficult to remove and will cause a
reliability problem with the compressor.
REMOVAL
WARNING: THE REFRIGERANT SYSTEM MUST BE
EMPTY BEFORE PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING
OPERATION. THE ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM
MUST ALSO BE RELIEVED OF ALL PRESSURE.
(1) Remove right quarter trim panel and D-pillar
trim. Refer to Group 23, Body.
(2) Remove fan A/C distribution duct.
(3) Remove rear A/C unit.
(4) Remove blower scroll.
(5) Remove evaporator cover (Fig. 12).
(6) Remove the nut that mounts the refrigerant
plumbing block to the expansion valve (Fig. 13).
(7) Carefully pull the evaporator and expansion
valve straight out of unit (Fig. 14). Do not scratch
the sealing surfaces with the plumbing extension
tube pilots.
(8) Remove and discard the O-rings between the
plumbing extension and the expansion valve.
(9) Cover the plumbing extension sealing surface
to prevent contamination.
(10) Bring evaporator and expansion valve to a
clean work space.
(11) Remove two 1/4-20 Torx Head screws.
(12) Remove expansion valve.
(13) Measure and record the amount of residual oil
from the removed evaporator.
INSTALLATION
(1) Replace the O-rings.(2) Hold expansion valve against evaporator seal-
ing plate (do not scratch the sealing surface). Install
two screws and tighten to 1163 N´m (100630 inch
pounds) torque.
Fig. 11 Rear Heat-A/C UnitFig. 12 Evaporator Cover
Fig. 13 Expansion Valve
Fig. 14 Evaporator Removal
24 - 44 HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONINGNS
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION (Continued)
Page 1861 of 1938

CAUTION: Do not damage the evaporator insulation
liner during installation.
(3) Carefully install the evaporator and expansion
valve straight into the unit. Do not scratch the seal-
ing surfaces with the plumbing extension tube pilots.
(4) Determine the amount of old refrigerant oil
drained from the evaporator. Add this amount (of
clean refrigerant oil) back into the system.
(5) Carefully align the expansion valve onto the
pilot tubes of the plumbing extension (do not scratch
the sealing surface). Install the bolt through the
plumbing plate into the unit sealing plate. Tighten
bolts to 2363 N´m (200630 inch pounds) torque.
(6) Install evaporator cover and blower scroll.
(7) Install quarter trim panel, evacuate/charge sys-
tem, and perform the performance test.
REAR AIR CONDITIONING LINES
WARNING: THE REFRIGERATION SYSTEM MUST
BE COMPLETELY EMPTY BEFORE PROCEEDING
WITH THIS OPERATION.
REMOVAL
(1) Hoist vehicle
(2) Remove compression fittings to the suction and
liquid lines located on the right, outboard side of the
underbody, rearward of the front crossmember. (Fig.
2)
(3) remove (1) bolt securing a/c lines to block
located on the right, outboard side of the underbody,
rearward of the rear wheel and tire. (Fig. 5)
(4) Remove (3) straps securing underbody lines.
(Fig. 1)
(5) Separate and remove a/c lines from vehicle.
INSTALLATION
(1) Before installation, replace all O-rings and gas-
kets. Coat all sealing surfaces with approved wax-
free refrigerant oil. Then, reverse the above
procedures.
(2) Evacuate and recharge system.
REAR HEATER A/C AIR OUTLETS
REMOVAL
Separate barrel from bezel by pulling outward.
INSTALLATION
For installation, push the outlet firmly into the
opening until it locks into place.
REAR HEATER-A/C AUXILIARY CONDENSER
If vehicle is equipped with a 3.3L or 3.8L engine
with rear heater and air conditioning, it will be
equipped with an auxiliary condenser. The auxiliarycondenser is mounted on the primary condenser in
front of the radiator. Both condenser must be
removed as an assembly and then separated.
WARNING: THE REFRIGERATION SYSTEM MUST
BE COMPLETELY EMPTY BEFORE PROCEEDING
WITH THIS OPERATION.
NOTE: Special effort must be used to keep all
R-134a system components moisture-free. Moisture
in the oil is very difficult to remove and will cause a
reliability problem with the compressor.
The condenser assembly must first be removed
from vehicle. Refer to CONDENSER ASSEMBLY
removal and installation in this section for service
procedures.
REMOVAL
(1) After condenser assembly removal, place on
bench for disassembly.
(2) Remove (1) bolt to liquid line on auxiliary con-
denser.
(3) Remove (4) attaching bolts and separate auxil-
iary from primary condenser. (Fig. 15)
INSTALLATION
(1) Before installation, replace all O-rings and gas-
kets. Coat all sealing surfaces with approved wax-
free refrigerant oil. Then, reverse the above
procedures.
(2) Evacuate and recharge system.
Fig. 15 3.3L/3.8L REAR HEAT-A/C AUXILIARY
CONDENSER
NSHEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING 24 - 45
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION (Continued)
Page 1862 of 1938

REAR HEATER A/C BLOWER MOTOR
REMOVAL
(1) Remove the right quarter trim panel and D-pil-
lar trim. Refer to Group 23, Body for service proce-
dures.
(2) Remove (5) screws securing the blower motor
housing to the rear of the HVAC housing (one screw
located on evaporator cover) (Fig. 16).
(3) Twist motor out of scroll housing.
(4) Disconnect blower motor wiring connector.
INSTALLATION
For installation, reverse the above procedures.
REAR HEATER-A/C CONTROL ILLUMINATION BULB
REMOVAL
(1) Remove rear heater-A/C control from trim
panel.
(2) On the back of control opposite from the wire
connectors, locate the bulb socket lug.
(3) Rotate the socket counterclockwise and pull the
socket from the control.
INSTALLATION
For installation, reverse the above procedures.
Refer to Group 8L, Lamps for bulb usage.
REAR HEATER A/C UNIT
NOTE: Special effort must be used to keep all
R-134a system components moisture-free. Moisture
in the oil is very difficult to remove and will cause a
reliability problem with the compressor.
REMOVAL
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH REAR
A/C, THE REFRIGERANT SYSTEM MUST BE EMP-
TIED BEFORE PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING
OPERATION. THE ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM
MUST ALSO BE RELIEVED OF ALL PRESSURE.
(1) Using a refrigerant recovery machine, remove
refrigerant from the A/C system. Disconnect A/C
plumbing from rear heater A/C unit.
(2) Hoist vehicle.
(3) Remove A/C lines at lower floor pan flange
(Fig. 17).
(4) Remove (3) A/C unit floor mounting nuts (Fig.
18).
(5) Lower vehicle.
(6) Remove right quarter trim panel and D-pillar
trim (Fig. 8). Refer to Group 23, Body.
(7) Remove screws securing air distribution duct to
the rear wheel housing (Fig. 19).
Fig. 16 Blower Motor
Fig. 17 A/C Lines
Fig. 18 A/C Mounting
24 - 46 HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONINGNS
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION (Continued)
Page 1865 of 1938

NOTE: If the heater core was emptied and was not
prefilled, it is necessary to thermal cycle the vehicle
TWICE. The heater core is positioned higher than
the radiator fill cap. Therefore the heater core will
not gravity fill to level. To thermal cycle the vehicle,
it must be operated till the thermostat opens, then
turned off and allowed to cool. In order to verify
that the auxiliary unit is filled completely, the follow-
ing procedure can be used:
²Vehicle at room temperature.
²Engine is brought up to operating temperature.
²Front unit is OFF, temperature slides are at full
HEAT position.
²Engine is at idle.
²With rear blower motor ON HIGH
²Discharge air temperature, measured at the
dual register located on the C-pillar base, is between
57ÉC to 62ÉC (135É and 145É F).
REAR HEATER LINES
REMOVAL
NOTE: Review Safety Precautions and Warnings
before proceeding with this operation.
(1) Partially drain engine cooling system. Refer to
Group 7, Engine Cooling.
(2) Loosen clamp at the front end of the hose
located at the right, outboard side of the underbody,
rearward of the front crossmember. (Fig. 2)
(3) Carefully rotate hose back and forth while tug-
ging slightly away from connector nipple. If the hose
will not come off, slice the hose at the connector nip-
ple and peel off heater hose. This method will require
heater hose replacement.
CAUTION: When removing hoses from outlet nip-
ples, do not use excessive force. Outlet nipples
may become damaged and leak engine coolant.
(4) Compress insert in rear heater hose quick con-
nection and pull downward on hose. (Fig. 4)(5) Remove (3) straps securing underbody lines.
(Fig. 1)
(6) Separate and remove rear heater lines from
vehicle.
INSTALLATION
For installation, reverse the above procedures.
MODE DOOR
REMOVAL
(1) Remove A/C unit.
(2) Place unit on bench.
(3) Remove heater core.
(4) Remove blower scroll.
(5) Remove evaporator cover.
(6) Remove A/C line to expansion valve mounting
nut.
(7) Carefully pull evaporator out of housing.
(8) Remove mode door actuator and gear exten-
sion.
(9) Remove Heater-A/C housing clips and screws.
(10) Separate housing halves.
(11) Remove mode door.
INSTALLATION
For installation, reverse the above procedures.
MODE DOOR ACTUATOR
REMOVAL
(1) Remove A/C unit.
(2) Place unit on bench.
(3) Remove mode door actuator connector.
(4) Remove mode door actuator mounting screws
and remove actuator.
INSTALLATION
For installation, reverse the above procedures.
NSHEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING 24 - 49
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION (Continued)
Page 1867 of 1938

HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING
CONTENTS
page page
GENERAL INFORMATION
INTRODUCTION........................ 1
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS AND WARNINGS.... 2
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION
A/C PRESSURE TRANSDUCER............ 2
A/C SERVICE PORTS.................... 2
AIR DISTRIBUTION DUCTS............... 2
COMPRESSOR......................... 2
COMPRESSOR HIGH-PRESSURE RELIEF
VALVE .............................. 3
CONDENSATE DRAIN.................... 3
ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS . 3
EVAPORATOR PROBE................... 3
HANDLING TUBING AND FITTINGS........ 3
HVAC CONTROL MODULE................ 3
SIDE DOOR HEATER A/C OUTLETS........ 4
SIDE WINDOW DEMISTER............... 4
SYSTEM AIRFLOW..................... 4
SYSTEM OIL LEVEL..................... 4
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
A/C PERFORMANCE TEST............... 11
A/C PRESSURE TRANSDUCER........... 11
ACTUATOR CALIBRATION/DIAGNOSTICS AND
COOLDOWN TEST..................... 5
BLOWER MOTOR AND WHEEL ASSEMBLY . 12
COMPRESSOR CLUTCH/COIL............ 12
COMPRESSOR NOISE DIAGNOSIS........ 12
EXPANSION VALVE.................... 14
HEATER PERFORMANCE TEST........... 14
HVAC CONTROL DIAGNOSTIC CONDITIONS . 9
SYSTEM CHARGE LEVEL TEST........... 15SERVICE PROCEDURES
CHARGING REFRIGERANT SYSTEM....... 17
EVACUATING REFRIGERANT SYSTEM..... 17
R-134a REFRIGERANT.................. 16
STICKING HVAC CONTROL MODULE PUSH
BUTTONS.......................... 18
SYSTEM LEAK CHECKING............... 19
THERMOCOUPLE PROBE............... 18
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION
A/C PRESSURE TRANSDUCER........... 19
A/C SERVICE PORTS................... 19
BLEND-AIR DOOR ACTUATOR........... 20
BLOWER MOTOR AND WHEEL ASSEMBLY . 20
BLOWER MOTOR RESISTOR BLOCK...... 21
BLOWER MOTOR WHEEL............... 22
COMPRESSOR (2.5L TURBO DIESEL)..... 22
CONDENSER ASSEMBLY................ 23
DISCHARGE LINE..................... 23
EVAPORATOR PROBE.................. 24
EXPANSION VALVE.................... 25
FILTER-DRIER ASSEMBLY............... 26
HEATER A/C UNIT HOUSING............. 26
HEATER CORE........................ 26
HEATER HOSES....................... 28
LIQUID LINE......................... 28
MODE DOOR ACTUATOR................ 29
RECIRC DOOR ACTUATOR.............. 30
SIDE WINDOW DEMISTER DUCTS........ 29
SUCTION LINE........................ 29
DISASSEMBLY AND ASSEMBLY
HEATER A/C UNIT RECONDITION......... 30
GENERAL INFORMATION
INTRODUCTION
The Heater, or Heater and Air Conditioning sys-
tems share many of the same components. This
group will deal with both systems together when
component function is common, and separately when
they are not.
For proper operation of the instrument panel con-
trols, refer to the Owner's Manual provided with the
vehicle.All vehicles are equipped with a common Heater
A/C unit housing assembly. When the vehicle has
only a heater system, the evaporator and recirculat-
ing air door are omitted.
An optional zone control HVAC unit is available.
This unit has dual blend-air doors that can be regu-
lated independently of each other. The temperature
setting can be different from driver's side to passen-
ger side.
NS/GSHEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING 24 - 1
Page 1868 of 1938

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS AND WARNINGS
WARNING: WEAR EYE PROTECTION WHEN SER-
VICING THE AIR CONDITIONING REFRIGERANT
SYSTEM. SERIOUS EYE INJURY CAN RESULT
FROM EYE CONTACT WITH REFRIGERANT. IF EYE
CONTACT IS MADE, SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION
IMMEDIATELY.
DO NOT EXPOSE REFRIGERANT TO OPEN
FLAME. POISONOUS GAS IS CREATED WHEN
REFRIGERANT IS BURNED. AN ELECTRONIC TYPE
LEAK DETECTOR IS RECOMMENDED.
LARGE AMOUNTS OF REFRIGERANT RELEASED
IN A CLOSED WORK AREA WILL DISPLACE THE
OXYGEN AND CAUSE SUFFOCATION.
THE EVAPORATION RATE OF REFRIGERANT AT
AVERAGE TEMPERATURE AND ALTITUDE IS
EXTREMELY HIGH. AS A RESULT, ANYTHING THAT
COMES IN CONTACT WITH THE REFRIGERANT
WILL FREEZE. ALWAYS PROTECT SKIN OR DELI-
CATE OBJECTS FROM DIRECT CONTACT WITH
REFRIGERANT. R-134a SERVICE EQUIPMENT OR
VEHICLE A/C SYSTEM SHOULD NOT BE PRES-
SURE TESTED OR LEAK TESTED WITH COM-
PRESSED AIR.
SOME MIXTURES OF AIR and R-134a HAVE BEEN
SHOWN TO BE COMBUSTIBLE AT ELEVATED
PRESSURES. THESE MIXTURES ARE POTENTIALLY
DANGEROUS AND MAY RESULT IN FIRE OR
EXPLOSION CAUSING INJURY OR PROPERTY
DAMAGE.
ANTIFREEZE IS AN ETHYLENE GLYCOL BASE
COOLANT AND IS HARMFUL IF SWALLOWED OR
INHALED. SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION IMMEDI-
ATELY IF SWALLOWED OR INHALED. DO NOT
STORE IN OPEN OR UNMARKED CONTAINERS.
WASH SKIN AND CLOTHING THOROUGHLY AFTER
COMING IN CONTACT WITH ETHYLENE GLYCOL.
KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN AND PETS.
DO NOT OPEN A COOLING SYSTEM WHEN THE
ENGINE IS AT RUNNING TEMPERATURE. PER-
SONAL INJURY CAN RESULT.
CAUTION: The engine cooling system is designed
to develop internal pressure of 97 to 123 kPa (14 to
18 psi). Allow the vehicle to cool a minimum of 15
minutes before opening the cooling system. Refer
to Group 7, Cooling System.
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION
AIR DISTRIBUTION DUCTS
The air distribution ducts for the A/C, Heater,
Defroster, and Second Seating Air Distribution arenot serviceable in vehicle. The procedures for service
of these ducts are covered in Group 8E, Instrument
Panel and Gauges.
The only ducts that are serviceable in the vehicle
are the side window demister ducts and the ducts
that feed the front door outlets for the first rear pas-
senger(s) seating. To service the door ducts refer to
Group 23, Body.
A/C PRESSURE TRANSDUCER
The A/C Pressure Transducer (Fig. 1) monitors the
refrigerant gas pressure on the high side of the sys-
tem. The transducer is located on the liquid line. The
pressure transducer turns off the voltage to the com-
pressor clutch coil when refrigerant gas pressure
drops to levels that could damage the compressor.
The transducer also is used to adjust condenser fan
speeds and will turn off compressor at high refriger-
ant pressures. The pressure transducer is a sealed
factory calibrated unit. It must be replaced if defec-
tive. O-ring replacement is required whenever the
pressure transducer is serviced. Be sure to use the
O-ring specified for the transducer.
A/C SERVICE PORTS
The A/C service port valve cores are located within
the A/C lines. The High Side (Discharge) valve ser-
vice port is located on the liquid line near the right
strut tower. The Low Side (Suction) valve service
port is located on the suction line near the compres-
sor.
The High Side service port is a two piece port and
is serviceable. The Low Side service port is not ser-
viceable, and the suction line would have to be
replaced.
COMPRESSOR
The A/C compressor for the 2.5L Turbo Diesel, is
located on the front side of the engine block. It is
mounted to the engine block by four bolts. The com-
Fig. 1 A/C Pressure Transducer
24 - 2 HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONINGNS/GS
GENERAL INFORMATION (Continued)
Page 1877 of 1938

²No charge
²Compressor not operating
Verify that the test was done with the evaporator
at room temperature. The test consists of starting
the compressor and measuring the time it takes for
the evaporator temperature to fall 7ÉC (20ÉF). If the
compressor has been running, the evaporator is cold
already and will not be capable of falling 7ÉC (20ÉF).
If the test was run with a cold evaporator, turn A/C
off and turn the blower motor switch to high position
for 3 to 5 minutes till the evaporator is to room tem-
perature. Then repeat the Calibration Diagnostic and
Cooldown test.
If refrigerant system is performing properly and
the system will not pass test. Repeat the Calibration
Diagnostic and Cooldown test to determine if the
evaporator temperature FIN sensor has developed an
open or a short circuit. If the HVAC control module
still passes Calibration test, verify Cooldown test
manually with a pocket thermometer. The outlet air
temperature must drop at least 7ÉC (20ÉF) within
two minutes. If the vehicle passes with the manual
thermometer, take HVAC control to level 4 (evapora-
tor probe temperature readout) and repeat the
Cooldown test. Ensure the evaporator is at room tem-
perature before starting test. Check if evaporator
probe will drop the temperature 7ÉC (20ÉF) in two
minutes. If the Evaporator Probe is found to be
faulty, check that the sensor is positioned in the
evaporator fins properly. If not, correct and repeat
test. If OK, replace the evaporator probe.
Once the repairs are completed, repeat the Calibra-
tion Diagnostic and Cooldown test. Repeating the
test is necessary to clear the fault codes.
A/C PERFORMANCE TEST
The air conditioning system is designed to remove
heat and humidity from the air entering the passen-
ger compartment. The evaporator, located in the
heater A/C unit, is cooled to temperatures near the
freezing point. As warm damp air passes over the
fins in the evaporator, moisture in the air condenses
to water, dehumidifying the air. Condensation on the
evaporator fins reduces the evaporators ability to
absorb heat. During periods of high heat and humid-
ity, an air conditioning system will be less effective.
With the instrument control set to RECIRC, only air
from the passenger compartment passes through the
evaporator. As the passenger compartment air dehu-
midifies, A/C performance levels rise.
PERFORMANCE TEST PROCEDURE
Review Safety Precautions and Warnings in this
group before proceeding with this procedure. Air tem-
perature in test room and on vehicle must be 21É C
(70ÉF) minimum for this test.
NOTE: When connecting the service equipment
coupling to the line fitting, verify that the valve of
the coupling is fully closed. This will reduce the
amount of effort required to make the connection.
(1) Connect a tachometer and manifold gauge set.
(2) Set control to A/C, RECIRC, and PANEL, tem-
perature lever on full cool and blower on high.
(3) Start engine and hold at 1000 rpm with A/C
clutch engaged.
(4) Engine should be warmed up with doors and
windows closed.
(5) Insert a thermometer in the left center A/C
outlet and operate the engine for five minutes. The
A/C clutch may cycle depending on ambient condi-
tions.
(6) With the A/C clutch engaged, compare the dis-
charge air temperature to the A/C Performance Tem-
peratures chart (Fig. 7).
(7) If the discharge air temperature fails to meet
the specifications in the performance temperature
chart. Refer to the Refrigerant Service Procedures for
further diagnosis.
A/C PRESSURE TRANSDUCER
The work area temperature must not be below
10ÉC (50ÉF) to test the compressor clutch circuit.
Before starting to test the transducer ensure that the
wire connector is clean of corrosion and connected
properly.
(1) With gear selector in park or neutral and park
brake set, start engine and allow to idle.
(2) Install scan tool (DRB):
²Go to main menu
²Select stand alone scan tool (DRB)
²Select refer to the proper year diagnostics
²Select climate control
²Select sensor display
²Select A/C high side volts
For A/C system to operate a voltage between .451
(Low Pressure Cutout) to 4.519 (High Pressure Cut-
out is required. Voltages outside this range indicate a
low or high pressure condition andwill notallow
the compressor to cycle.
The following chart denotes voltages and the
appropriate condition(s):
NS/GSHEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING 24 - 11
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING (Continued)
Page 1880 of 1938

(6) If coil current reads zero, the coil is open and
should be replaced. If the ammeter reading is 4
amperes or more, the coil is shorted and should be
replaced. If the coil voltage is not within two volts of
the battery voltage, test clutch coil feed circuit for
excessive voltage drop.
EXPANSION VALVE
NOTE: Special effort must be used to keep all
R-134a system components moisture-free. Moisture
in the oil is very difficult to remove and will cause a
reliability problem with the compressor.
TESTS
NOTE: Expansion valve tests should be performed
after compressor tests.
Review Safety Precautions and Warnings in this
group. The work area and vehicle temperature must
be 21ÉC to 27ÉC (70ÉF to 85ÉF). To test the expansion
valve:
NOTE: Liquid CO2 is required to test the expansion
valve. It is available from most welding supply facil-
ities. CO2 is also available from companies which
service and sell fire extinguishers.
(1) Connect a charging station or manifold gauge
set to the refrigerant system service ports. Verify the
refrigerant charge level.
(2) Close all doors, windows and vents to the pas-
senger compartment.
(3) Set heater A/C control to A/C, full heat,
FLOOR, and high blower.
(4) Start the engine and allow to idle (1000 rpm).
After the engine has reached running temperature,
allow the passenger compartment to heat up. This
will create the need for maximum refrigerant flow
into the evaporator.
(5) I
f the refrigerant charge is sufficient, discharge
(high pressure) gauge should read 965 to 1655 kPa (140
to 240 psi). Suction (low pressure) gauge should read
140 kPa to 207 kPa (20 psi to 30 psig). If system cannot
achieve proper pressure readings, replace the expan-
sion valve. If pressure is correct, proceed with test.
WARNING: PROTECT SKIN AND EYES FROM CON-
TACTING CO2 PERSONAL INJURY CAN RESULT.
(6) If suction side low pressure is within specified
range, freeze the expansion valve control head for 30
seconds. Use a super cold substance (liquid CO2).Do
not spray R-134a Refrigerant on the expansion
valve for this test.Suction side low pressure should
drop by 10 psi. If not, replace expansion valve.(7) Allow expansion valve to thaw. The low pres-
sure gauge reading should stabilize at 140 kPa to
240 kPa (20 psi to 30 psig). If not, replace expansion
valve.
(8) When expansion valve test is complete, test
A/C overall performance. Remove all test equipment
before returning vehicle to use.
HEATER PERFORMANCE TEST
PRE-DIAGNOSTIC PREPARATIONS
Review Safety Precautions and Warnings in this
group before performing the following procedures.
Check the coolant level, drive belt tension, vacuum
line connections, radiator air flow and fan operation.
Start engine and allow to warm up to normal tem-
perature.
WARNING: DO NOT REMOVE RADIATOR CAP
WHEN ENGINE IS HOT, PERSONAL INJURY CAN
RESULT.
If vehicle has been run recently, wait 15 minutes
before removing cap. Place a rag over the cap and
turn it to the first safety stop. Allow pressure to
escape through the overflow tube. When the system
stabilizes, remove the cap completely.
MAXIMUM HEATER OUTPUT: TEST AND
ACTION
Engine coolant is provided to the heater system by
two 16 mm (5/8 inch inside diameter) heater hoses.
With engine idling at normal running temperature,
set the control to maximum heat, floor, and high
blower setting. Using a test thermometer, check the
air temperature coming from the floor outlets, refer
to Temperature Reference chart.
If the floor outlet air temperature is insufficient,
refer to Group 7, Cooling Systems for specifications.
Both heater hoses should be HOT to the touch (cool-
ant return hose should be slightly cooler than the
supply hose). If coolant return hose is much cooler
than the supply hose, locate and repair engine cool-
ant flow obstruction in heater system.
TEMPERATURE REFERENCE CHART
AMBIENT TEMP.MINIMUM FLOOR
OUTLET TEMP.
CELSIUS FAHRENHEIT CELSIUS FAHRENHEIT
15.5É 60É 62.2É 144É
21.1É 70É 63.8É 147É
26.6É 80É 65.5É 150É
32.2É 90É 67.2É 153É
24 - 14 HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONINGNS/GS
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING (Continued)
Page 1881 of 1938

POSSIBLE LOCATIONS OR CAUSE OF
OBSTRUCTED COOLANT FLOW
(1) Pinched or kinked heater hoses.
(2) Improper heater hose routing.
(3) Plugged heater hoses or supply and return
ports at cooling system connections, refer to Group 7,
Cooling System.
(4) Plugged heater core.
(5) Air locked heater core.
(6) If coolant flow is verified and outlet tempera-
ture is insufficient, a mechanical problem may exist.
POSSIBLE LOCATION OR CAUSE OF
INSUFFICIENT HEAT
(1) Obstructed cowl air intake.
(2) Obstructed heater system outlets.
(3) Blend-air door not functioning properly.
TEMPERATURE CONTROL
If temperature cannot be adjusted with the TEMP
lever on the control panel, the following could require
service:
(1) Blend-air door binding.
(2) Faulty blend-air door motor.
(3) Improper engine coolant temperature.
(4) Faulty Instrument Panel Control.
SYSTEM CHARGE LEVEL TEST
The procedure below should be used to check
and/or fill the refrigerant charge in the air condition-
ing system.
NOTE: The amount of R134a refrigerant that the air
conditioning system holds is 0.96 kg (34 oz. or 2.13
lbs.).
NOTE: Low Charge, condition may be described
as:
²Loss of A/C performance
²Fog from A/C outlets
²evaporator may have a HISS sound
There are two different ways the system can be
tested:
²With a scan tool (DRB), thermocouple and the
Charge Determination Graph. Use the scan tool
(DRB) diagnostic topic: Engine±System Monitors, A/C
Pressure.
²Using a manifold gauge set, a thermocouple and
the Charge Determination Graph.
It is recommended to use the gauges or reclaim/re-
cycle equipment.
WARNING: AVOID BREATHING A/C REFRIGERANT
AND LUBRICANT VAPOR OR MIST. EXPOSURE MAY
IRRITATE EYES, NOSE AND THROAT. USE ONLY
APPROVED SERVICE EQUIPMENT MEETING SAEREQUIREMENTS TO DISCHARGE R-134a SYSTEM. IF
ACCIDENTAL SYSTEM DISCHARGE OCCURS, VEN-
TILATE WORK AREA BEFORE RESUMING SERVICE.
R-134a SERVICE EQUIPMENT OR VEHICLE A/C
SYSTEM SHOULD NOT BE PRESSURE TESTED OR
LEAK TESTED WITH COMPRESSED AIR. SOME
MIXTURES OF AIR/R-134a HAVE BEEN SHOWN TO
BE COMBUSTIBLE AT ELEVATED PRESSURES.
THESE MIXTURES ARE POTENTIALLY DANGER-
OUS AND MAY RESULT IN FIRE OR EXPLOSION
CAUSING INJURY OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.
(1) Establish your preferred method of measuring
liquid line pressure. Use a manifold gauge set or a
DRB scan tool.
(2) A
ttach a clamp-on thermocouple (Professional
Service Equipment 66-324-0014 or 80PK-1A) or equiv-
alent to the liquid line. It must be placed as close to
the A/C Pressure Transducer as possible to observe liq-
uid line temperature. Refer to ªThermocouple Probeº in
this section for more information on probe.
(3) The vehicle must be in the following modes:
²Transaxle in Park
²Engine Idling at 700 rpm
²A/C Controls Set to Outside Air
²Panel Mode
²Full Cool
²High Blower motor, (vehicle equipped with rear
A/C turn rear blower motor ON HIGH)
²A/C Button in the ON position
²Vehicle Windows Open.
²Recirc. button turned OFF
(4) Operate system for a couple of minutes to allow
the system to stabilize.
(5) Set system pressure to about 1793 kPa (260
psi) by placing a piece of cardboard over part of the
front side of the condenser. To place cardboard prop-
erly, remove the upper radiator-condenser cover.
Insert cardboard between condenser and radiator
front. This will maintain a constant pressure.
(6) Observe Liquid Line pressure and Liquid line
temperature. Using theCharge Determination
Chartdetermine where the system is currently oper-
ating. If the system is in the undercharged region,
ADD 0.057 Kg. (2 oz.) to the system and recheck
readings. If the system is in the overcharged region,
RECLAIM 0.057 Kg. (2 oz.) from the system and
recheck readings. Continue this process until the sys-
tem readings are in the proper charge area on the
Charge Determination Chart.
(7) The same procedure can be performed using
the scan tool (DRB). To determine liquid line pres-
sure, attach the scan tool, go to System Moni-
tors±A/C Pressure. Observe liquid line pressure from
A/C Pressure Transducer on digital display and digi-
tal thermometer. Refer toCharge Determination
Chartand determine where the system is operating.
NS/GSHEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING 24 - 15
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING (Continued)
Page 1883 of 1938

The use of R-134a will have a positive environmen-
tal impact due to it's zero ozone depletion and low
global warming impact.
CHARGING REFRIGERANT SYSTEM
CAUTION: Do not overcharge refrigerant system,
as excessive compressor head pressure can cause
noise and system failure.
After the system has been tested for leaks and
evacuated, a refrigerant (R-134a) charge can be
injected into the system.
NOTE: When connecting the service equipment
coupling to the line fitting, verify that the valve of
the coupling is fully closed. This will reduce the
amount of effort required to make the connection.
(1) Connect manifold gauge set.
(2) Measure refrigerant 0.96 kg (34 oz. or 2.13 lb.)
and heat to 52ÉC (125ÉF) with the charging station.
Refer to the instructions provided with the equip-
ment being used.
(3) Open the suction and discharge valves. Open
the charge valve to allow the heated refrigerant to
flow into the system. When the transfer of refriger-
ant has stopped, close the suction and discharge
valve.
(4) If all of the charge did not transfer from the
dispensing device, run engine at a high idle (1400
rpm). Set the A/C control to A/C, low blower speed,
and open windows. If the A/C compressor does not
engage, test the compressor clutch control circuit andcorrect any failure. Refer to Group 8W, Wiring Dia-
grams.
(5) Open the suction valve to allow the remaining
refrigerant to transfer to the system.
WARNING: TAKE CARE NOT TO OPEN THE DIS-
CHARGE (HIGH-PRESSURE) VALVE AT THIS TIME.
(6) Close all valves and test the A/C system perfor-
mance.
(7) Disconnect the charging station or manifold
gauge set. Install the service port caps.
EVACUATING REFRIGERANT SYSTEM
NOTE: Special effort must be used to prevent mois-
ture from entering the A/C system oil. Moisture in
the oil is very difficult to remove and will cause a
reliability problem with the compressor.
If a compressor designed to use R-134a refrigerant
is left open to the atmosphere for an extended period
of time. It is recommended that the refrigerant oil be
drained and replaced with new oil or a new compres-
sor be used. This will eliminate the possibility of con-
taminating the refrigerant system.
If the refrigerant system has been open to the
atmosphere, it must be evacuated before the system
can be filled. Moisture and air mixed with the refrig-
erant will raise the compressor head pressure above
acceptable operating levels. This will reduce the per-
formance of the air conditioner and damage the com-
pressor. Moisture will boil at near room temperature
when exposed to vacuum. To evacuate the refrigerant
system:
NOTE: When connecting the service equipment
coupling to the line fitting, verify that the valve of
the coupling is fully closed. This will reduce the
amount of effort required to make the connection.
(1) Connect a suitable charging station, refrigerant
recovery machine, or a manifold gauge set with vac-
uum pump to the service ports (Fig. 10).
(2) Open the suction and discharge valves and
start the vacuum pump. The vacuum pump should
run a minimum of 45 minutes prior to charge to
eliminate all moisture in system. When the suction
gauge reads -88 kPa (-26 in. Hg) vacuum or greater
for 45 minutes, close all valves and turn off vacuum
pump. If the system fails to reach specified vacuum,
the refrigerant system likely has a leak that must be
corrected. If the refrigerant system maintains speci-
fied vacuum for at least 30 minutes, start the vac-
uum pump, open the suction and discharge valves.
Then allow the system to evacuate an additional 10
minutes.
Fig. 9 Manifold Gauge Set- Typical
NS/GSHEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING 24 - 17
SERVICE PROCEDURES (Continued)