ipm CHRYSLER VOYAGER 2005 Service Manual

(6) Install the screw that secures the front of the
rear HVAC housing to the right quarter inner panel.
Tighten the screw to 11 N´m (97 in. lbs.).
(7) Install the screw that secures the back of the
rear HVAC housing to the right D-pillar. Tighten the
screw to 11 N´m (97 in. lbs.).
(8) Install the two screws that secure the top of
the quarter trim panel attaching bracket to the quar-
ter inner panel. Tighten the screws to 2 N´m (17 in.
lbs.).
(9) Reinstall the right quarter trim panel and
right D-pillar trim panel onto the quarter inner
panel (Refer to 23 - BODY/INTERIOR/QUARTER
TRIM PANEL - INSTALLATION).
(10) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
(11) Perform the heater-A/C control calibration
procedure (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING/CONTROLS - FRONT/A/C-HEATER CON-
TROL - STANDARD PROCEDURE - HEATER-A/C
CONTROL CALIBRATION).
BLOWER MOTOR RELAY
DESCRIPTION
The rear blower motor relay is a International
Standards Organization (ISO)-type relay (Fig. 4).
Relays conforming to the ISO specifications have
common physical dimensions, current capacities, ter-
minal patterns, and terminal functions. The rear
blower motor relay is located in the integrated power
module (IPM) in the engine compartment. See the
fuse and relay map on the inner surface of the cover
of the IPM for rear blower motor relay identification
and location.
The black, molded plastic case is the most visible
component of the rear blower motor relay. Five male
spade-type terminals extend from the bottom of the
base to connect the relay to the vehicle electrical sys-tem, and the ISO designation for each terminal is
molded into the base adjacent to each terminal. The
ISO terminal designations are as follows:
²30 (Common Feed)- This terminal is con-
nected to the movable contact point of the relay.
²85 (Coil Ground)- This terminal is connected
to the ground feed side of the relay control coil.
²86 (Coil Battery)- This terminal is connected
to the battery feed side of the relay control coil.
²87 (Normally Open)- This terminal is con-
nected to the normally open fixed contact point of the
relay.
²87A (Normally Closed)- This terminal is con-
nected to the normally closed fixed contact point of
the relay.
The rear blower motor relay cannot be adjusted or
repaired. If the relay is damaged or faulty, it must be
replaced.
OPERATION
The rear blower motor relay is an electromechani-
cal switch that uses a low current input from the
Front Control Module (FCM) to control the high cur-
rent output to the rear blower motor resistor (man-
ual heater-A/C control) or rear blower motor power
module (ATC heater-A/C control). The movable com-
mon feed contact point is held against the fixed nor-
mally closed contact point by spring pressure. When
the relay coil is energized, an electromagnetic field is
produced by the coil windings. This electromagnetic
field draws the movable relay contact point away
from the fixed normally closed contact point, and
holds it against the fixed normally open contact
point. When the relay coil is de-energized, spring
pressure returns the movable contact point back
against the fixed normally closed contact point. The
resistor or diode is connected in parallel with the
relay coil in the relay, and helps to dissipate voltage
spikes and electromagnetic interference that can be
generated as the electromagnetic field of the relay
coil collapses.
The rear blower motor relay terminals are con-
nected to the vehicle electrical system through a
receptacle in the Integrated Power Module (IPM).
The inputs and outputs of the rear blower motor
relay include:
²The common feed terminal (30) receives a bat-
tery current input from the battery through a B(+)
circuit at all times.
²The coil ground terminal (85) receives a ground
input through the front/rear blower motor relay con-
trol circuit only when the FCM electronically pulls
the control circuit to ground.
²The coil battery terminal (86) receives a battery
current input from the battery through a B(+) circuit
at all times.
Fig. 4 Rear Blower Motor Relay
24 - 36 CONTROLS - REARRS
BLEND DOOR ACTUATOR (Continued)

²The normally open terminal (87) provides a bat-
tery current output to the blower motor resistor
(manual heater-A/C control) or blower power module
(ATC heater-A/C control) through a fuse in the IPM
on the fused rear blower motor relay output circuit
only when the blower motor relay coil is energized.
²The normally closed terminal (87A) is not con-
nected to any circuit in this application, but provides
a battery current output only when the rear blower
motor relay coil is de-energized.
Refer to the appropriate wiring information for
diagnosis and testing of the micro-relay and for com-
plete HVAC wiring diagrams.
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the negative battery
cable.
(2) Remove the cover from the integrated power
module (IPM) (Fig. 5).
NOTE: Refer to the fuse and relay map on the inner
surface of the cover of the IPM for rear blower
motor relay identification and location.
(3) Remove the rear blower motor relay from the
IPM.
INSTALLATION
NOTE: Refer to the fuse and relay map on the inner
surface of the cover of the integrated power module
(IPM) for rear blower motor relay identification and
location.
(1) Position the rear blower motor relay to the
proper receptacle in the IPM.
(2) Align the rear blower motor relay terminals
with the terminal cavities in the IPM receptacle.
(3) Push down firmly on the rear blower motor
relay until the terminals are fully seated in the ter-
minal cavities.
(4) Install the cover onto the IPM.
(5) Reconnect the negative battery cable.
BLOWER MOTOR RESISTOR
BLOCK
DESCRIPTION
A rear blower motor resistor is used on this model
when it is equipped with the manual heater-A/C sys-
tem. Models equipped with the optional Automatic
Temperature Control (ATC) system use a rear blower
motor power module, instead of the blower motor
resistor block (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CON-
DITIONING/CONTROLS/POWER MODULE -
DESCRIPTION). The rear blower motor resistor
block is mounted to the rear HVAC housing, directly
above the expansion valve. The resistor block con-
sists of a molded plastic mounting plate with an inte-
gral connector receptacle. Concealed behind the
mounting plate is an electrical circuit board with two
resistors and a thermal fuse. The rear blower motor
resistor block is accessed for service by removing the
right quarter and D-pillar trim panels.
OPERATION
The rear blower motor resistor block is connected
to the vehicle electrical system through a dedicated
take out and connector of the rear HVAC wire har-
ness. The blower motor resistor has an electrical cir-
cuit board with two resistors, 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 system directs the
ground path for the rear blower motor through the
correct resistor to obtain the selected speed.
Fig. 5 Rear Blower Motor Relay
1 - INTEGRATED POWER MODULE (IPM)
2 - REAR BLOWER MOTOR RELAY
3 - FRONT CONTROL MODULE (FCM)
RSCONTROLS - REAR24-37
BLOWER MOTOR RELAY (Continued)

DISTRIBUTION - FRONT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
AIR FILTER
DESCRIPTION.........................42
REMOVAL.............................42
INSTALLATION.........................43
AIR OUTLETS
DESCRIPTION.........................43
REMOVAL
FRONT CENTER BEZEL OUTLETS........44
FRONT DEMISTER OUTLETS............44
INSTRUMENT PANEL OUTLETS..........45
INSTALLATION
FRONT CENTER BEZEL OUTLETS........45
FRONT DEMISTER OUTLETS............45
INSTRUMENT PANEL OUTLETS..........45
BLOWER MOTOR
DESCRIPTION.........................45
OPERATION...........................45
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
FRONT BLOWER MOTOR...............46
REMOVAL.............................48INSTALLATION.........................49
DEFROSTER DUCT
REMOVAL.............................49
INSTALLATION.........................50
FLOOR DISTRIBUTION DUCTS
REMOVAL.............................50
INSTALLATION.........................50
HVAC HOUSING
REMOVAL
REMOVAL...........................50
DISSASEMBLY.......................51
INSTALLATION
ASSEMBLY..........................53
INSTALLATION.......................53
INSTRUMENT PANEL DEMISTER DUCTS
REMOVAL.............................54
INSTALLATION.........................54
INSTRUMENT PANEL DUCTS
REMOVAL.............................55
INSTALLATION.........................55
AIR FILTER
DESCRIPTION
A dust and odor air filter is standard equipment on
models equipped with the three zone temperature
control systems (Fig. 1). The filter element is the
same size as the front air conditioner evaporator to
ensure ample filtering capacity. A removable door on
the bottom of the front HVAC housing below the
glove box provides easy access to the filter element
for replacement. The filter should be checked and
replaced at least once every 24,000 km (15,000 miles)
and checked if heater-A/C system performance seems
lower than expected.
REMOVAL
(1) Locate the air filter door on the bottom of the
lower HVAC housing just outboard of the passenger
side of the instrument panel center stack (Fig. 2).
(2) Slide the air filter door latch toward the rear of
the vehicle until it engages the opened stop on the
door.Fig. 1 Air Filter - LHD Shown, RHD Typical
1 - LOWER HVAC HOUSING
2 - LOWER EDGE OF INSTRUMENT PANEL
3 - AIR FILTER (IF EQUIPPED)
4 - CENTER FLOOR BRACKET COVER
5 - FILTER SEALING EDGES (IF EQUIPPED)
6 - AIR FILTER OPENING (IF EQUIPPED)
24 - 42 DISTRIBUTION - FRONTRS

whenever the ignition switch is in the On position
and the A/C-heater control power is turned on.
The blower motor receives battery current when-
ever the front blower motor relay is energized. The
front blower motor relay output circuit is protected
by a fuse in the Integrated Power Module (IPM)
located in the engine compartment near the battery.
In the manual heater-A/C system, the blower motor
speed is controlled by regulating the path to ground
through the blower control switch and the blower
motor resistor. In the ATC system, the blower motor
speed is controlled by an electronic blower motor
power module, which uses a pulse width modulated
input from the ATC module and feedback from the
blower motor to regulate the blower motor ground
path it provides. The blower motor and wheel are
used to control the velocity of air moving through the
HVAC housing by spinning the blower wheel within
the housing at the selected speed or, in the ATC sys-
tem, at the selected or programmed speed.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
FRONT BLOWER MOTOR
BLOWER MOTOR INOPERATIVE
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.
For circuit descriptions and diagrams, refer to the
appropriate wiring information. The wiring informa-
tion includes wiring, diagrams, proper wire and con-
nector repair procedures, further details on wire
harness routing and retention, as well as pin-out and
location views for the various wire harness connec-
tors, splices and grounds.BLOWER MOTOR ELECTRICAL DIAGNOSIS
(1) Check the fuse (Fuse 10 - 40 ampere) in the
Integrated Power Module (IPM). If OK, go to Step 2.
If not OK, repair the shorted circuit or component as
required and replace the faulty fuse.
(2) Turn the ignition switch to the On position. Be
certain that the A/C-heater control power is turned
on. Check for battery voltage at the fuse (Fuse 10 -
40 ampere) in the IPM. If OK, go to Step 3. If not
OK, check the front blower motor relay.
(3) Turn the ignition switch to the Off position.
Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable.
Disconnect the front HVAC wire harness connector
for the front blower motor resistor block (Manual
Temperature Control) or the front blower motor
power module (Automatic Temperature Control) from
the resistor or module connector receptacle. Recon-
nect the battery negative cable. Turn the ignition
switch to the On position. Be certain that the A/C-
heater control power is turned on. Check for battery
voltage at the fused front blower motor relay output
circuit cavity of the front HVAC wire harness connec-
tor for the front blower motor resistor block (MTC) or
the front blower motor power module (ATC). If OK,
go to Step 4. If not OK, repair the open fused front
blower motor relay output circuit to the IPM as
required.
(4) Turn the ignition switch to the Off position.
Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable.
Disconnect the front blower motor pigtail wire con-
nector from the connector receptacle of the front
blower motor resistor block (MTC) or the front
blower motor power module (ATC). Use jumper wires
to connect a battery and ground feeds to the blower
motor pigtail wire connector. The blower motor
should operate. If OK with MTC, proceed to diagno-
sis of the front blower motor resistor block (Refer to
24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/CONTROLS
- FRONT/BLOWER MOTOR RESISTOR - DIAGNO-
SIS AND TESTING). If OK with ATC, use a DRBIII
scan tool to diagnose the front blower motor power
module. Refer to Body Diagnostic information. If not
OK with MTC or ATC, replace the faulty front blower
motor.
BLOWER MOTOR NOISE OR VIBRATION
Refer to the Blower Motor Noise/Vibration Diagno-
sis chart for basic checks of the blower motor when a
vibration or noise is present (Fig. 7).
24 - 46 DISTRIBUTION - FRONTRS
BLOWER MOTOR (Continued)

DISTRIBUTION DUCT
REMOVAL
(1) Remove the trim from the right quarter inner
panel and the right D pillaR (Refer to 23 - BODY/IN-
TERIOR/RIGHT QUARTER TRIM PANEL -
REMOVAL).
(2) Slide the rear distribution duct upwards far
enough to disengage it from the outlet at the top of
the rear HVAC housing (Fig. 2).
(3) While pulling the lower end of the rear distri-
bution duct away from the rear HVAC housing out-
let, disengage the upper end of the distribution duct
from the headliner duct.
(4) Remove the rea distribution duct from the
vehicle.
INSTALLATION
(1) Align the upper end of the rear distribution
duct to the headliner duct.
(2) Slide the upper end of the rear distribution
duct onto the headliner duct far enough to align the
lower end of the duct with the outlet at the top of the
rear HVAC housing.
(3) Slide the rear distribution duct downwards far
enough to engage it onto the outlet at the top of the
rear HVAC housing.
(4) Reinstall the trim onto the right quarter inner
panel and the right D pillar (Refer to 23 - BODY/IN-
TERIOR/RIGHT QUARTER TRIM PANEL -
INSTALLATION).
BLOWER MOTOR
DESCRIPTION
The blower motor is a 12-volt, Direct Current (DC)
motor with a squirrel cage-type blower wheel that is
secured to the blower motor shaft. The blower motor
and wheel are located near the top of the rear HVAC
housing in the passenger compartment behind the
right rear wheel house. The rear HVAC housing must
be removed from the vehicle to access the blower
motor for service. The blower motor and blower
motor wheel are a factory balanced unit and cannot
be adjusted or repaired. If faulty or damaged, the
blower motor and blower wheel must be replaced as
a unit.
OPERATION
On models equipped with the Manual Temperature
Control (MTC) system, the rear blower motor will
operate only whenever the ignition switch is in the
On position, the front blower control switch is in any
position except Off and the rear blower control switch
on the front A/C-heater control is in any position
except Off. On models equipped with the Automatic
Temperature Control (ATC) system, the blower motor
will operate whenever the ignition switch is in the
On position, the A/C-heater control power is turned
on and the rear blower control switch on the front
A/C-heater control is in any position except Off. The
rear blower motor can only be turned off by turning
off the rear system at the front A/C-heater control.
The rear blower motor receives battery current
whenever the rear blower motor relay is energized.
The rear blower motor relay output circuit is pro-
tected by a fuse in the Integrated Power Module
(IPM) located in the engine compartment near the
battery. In the MTC system, the rear blower motor
speed is controlled by regulating the path to ground
through the blower control switch and the blower
motor resistor. In the ATC system, the rear blower
motor speed is controlled by an electronic blower
motor power module, which uses a pulse width mod-
ulated input from the ATC control module and feed-
back from the rear blower motor to regulate the
blower motor ground path it provides. The rear
blower motor and wheel are used to control the veloc-
ity of air moving through the rear HVAC housing.
The rear blower motor controls the velocity of the air
flowing through the rear HVAC housing by spinning
the blower wheel within the housing at the selected
speed or, in the ATC system, at the selected or pro-
grammed speed.
Fig. 2 Rear Distribution Duct
1 - HEADLINER DUCT
2 - REAR DISTRIBUTION DUCT
3 - REAR HVAC HOUSING OUTLET
RSDISTRIBUTION - REAR24-57

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
REAR BLOWER MOTOR
BLOWER MOTOR INOPERATIVE
For circuit descriptions and diagrams, refer to the
appropriate wiring information. The wiring informa-
tion includes wiring, diagrams, proper wire and con-
nector repair procedures, further details on wire
harness routing and retention, as well as pin-out and
location views for the various wire harness connec-
tors, splices and grounds.
BLOWER MOTOR ELECTRICAL DIAGNOSIS
(1) Check the fuse (Fuse 12 - 25 ampere) in the
Integrated Power Module (IPM). If OK, go to Step 2.
If not OK, repair the shorted circuit or component as
required and replace the faulty fuse.
(2) Turn the ignition switch to the On position. Be
certain that the rear A/C-heater control power is
turned on. Check for battery voltage at the fuse
(Fuse 12 - 25 ampere) in the IPM. If OK, go to Step
3. If not OK, check the rear blower motor relay.
(3) Turn the ignition switch to the Off position.
Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable.
Disconnect the rear HVAC wire harness connector
from the rear blower motor resistor block (Manual
Temperature Control) or the rear blower motor power
module (Automatic Temperature Control). Reconnect
the battery negative cable. Turn the ignition switch
to the On position. Be certain that the rear A/C-
heater control power is turned on. Check for battery
voltage at the fused rear blower motor relay output
circuit cavity of the rear HVAC wire harness connec-
tor for the rear blower motor resistor block (MTC) or
the rear blower motor power module (ATC). If OK, go
to Step 4. If not OK, repair the open fused front
blower motor relay output circuit to the IPM as
required.
(4) Turn the ignition switch to the Off position.
Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable.Disconnect the rear blower motor pigtail wire connec-
tor from the rear HVAC wire harness (MTC) or the
rear blower power module (ATC). Use jumper wires
to connect a battery and ground feeds to the blower
motor pigtail wire connector. The rear blower motor
should operate. If OK with MTC, proceed to diagno-
sis of the rear blower motor resistor block (Refer to
24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/CONTROLS
- REAR/BLOWER MOTOR RESISTOR - DIAGNOSIS
AND TESTING). If OK with ATC, use a DRBIII scan
tool to diagnose the rear blower motor power module.
Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information. If
not OK with MTC or ATC, replace the faulty rear
blower motor.
BLOWER MOTOR NOISE OR VIBRATION
Refer to the Blower Motor Noise/Vibration Diagno-
sis chart for basic checks of the blower motor when a
vibration or noise is present (Fig. 3).
REMOVAL
WARNING: REFER TO THE APPLICABLE WARN-
INGS AND CAUTIONS FOR THIS SYSTEM BEFORE
PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING OPERATION (Refer
to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
WARNING) and (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CON-
DITIONING/PLUMBING - CAUTION).
(1) Remove the rear HVAC housing from the vehi-
cle (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
DISTRIBUTION/HVAC HOUSING - REMOVAL).
(2) Disconnect the rear blower motor pigtail wire
connector.
NOTE: With the Manual Temperature Control sys-
tem, the blower motor pigtail wire is connected to a
take out and connector of the rear HVAC wire har-
ness. With the Automatic Temperature Control sys-
tem , the blower pigtail wire is connected to a
receptacle on the blower motor power module.
24 - 58 DISTRIBUTION - REARRS
BLOWER MOTOR (Continued)

PLUMBING - FRONT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
PLUMBING - FRONT
DESCRIPTION.........................65
OPERATION...........................65
WARNING
ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM.............65
A/C SYSTEM.........................66
CAUTION - A/C SYSTEM.................66
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
REFRIGERANT SYSTEM LEAKS..........67
SYSTEM CHARGE LEVEL TEST..........67
STANDARD PROCEDURE
HANDLING TUBING AND FITTINGS.......69
REFRIGERANT SYSTEM SERVICE
EQUIPMENT.........................69
REFRIGERANT SYSTEM RECOVERY......70
REFRIGERANT SYSTEM EVACUATE......70
REFRIGERANT SYSTEM CHARGE........71
A/C COMPRESSOR
DESCRIPTION
A/C COMPRESSOR....................72
HIGH PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE.........72
OPERATION
A/C COMPRESSOR....................72
HIGH PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE.........72
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
A/C COMPRESSOR NOISE DIAGNOSIS....72
REMOVAL
A/C COMPRESSOR....................73
A/C COMPRESSOR MOUNTING BRACKET -
2.4L ENGINE.........................74
INSTALLATION
A/C COMPRESSOR....................74
A/C COMPRESSOR MOUNTING BRACKET -
2.4L ENGINE.........................75
A/C CONDENSER
DESCRIPTION.........................75
OPERATION...........................75
REMOVAL
2.4L/3.3L/3.8L ENGINES................76
2.5L/2.8L DIESEL ENGINES..............77
INSTALLATION
2.4L/3.3L/3.8L ENGINES................77
2.5L/2.8L DIESEL ENGINES..............78
A/C DISCHARGE LINE
REMOVAL.............................79
INSTALLATION.........................80
A/C EVAPORATOR
DESCRIPTION.........................80OPERATION...........................80
REMOVAL.............................81
INSTALLATION.........................81
EXPANSION VALVE
DESCRIPTION.........................81
OPERATION...........................81
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
FRONT A/C EXPANSION VALVE..........82
REMOVAL.............................82
INSTALLATION.........................83
HEATER CORE
DESCRIPTION.........................83
OPERATION...........................84
REMOVAL
FRONT HEATER CORE TUBES...........84
FRONT HEATER CORE.................85
INSTALLATION
FRONT HEATER CORE TUBES...........85
FRONT HEATER CORE.................86
HEATER INLET HOSE
REMOVAL.............................86
INSTALLATION.........................87
HEATER RETURN HOSE
REMOVAL.............................88
INSTALLATION.........................89
LIQUID LINE
REMOVAL.............................89
INSTALLATION.........................91
RECEIVER / DRIER
DESCRIPTION.........................92
OPERATION...........................92
REMOVAL.............................92
INSTALLATION.........................93
REFRIGERANT
DESCRIPTION.........................93
OPERATION...........................94
REFRIGERANT OIL
DESCRIPTION.........................94
OPERATION...........................94
STANDARD PROCEDURE
REFRIGERANT OIL LEVEL..............94
SERVICE PORT VALVE CORE
DESCRIPTION.........................95
REMOVAL.............................95
INSTALLATION.........................95
SUCTION LINE
REMOVAL.............................96
INSTALLATION.........................97
24 - 64 PLUMBING - FRONTRS

A/C SYSTEM
WARNING: THE AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM CON-
TAINS REFRIGERANT UNDER HIGH PRESSURE.
SEVERE PERSONAL INJURY MAY RESULT FROM
IMPROPER SERVICE PROCEDURES. REPAIRS
SHOULD ONLY BE PERFORMED BY QUALIFIED
SERVICE PERSONNEL.
AVOID BREATHING THE REFRIGERANT AND
REFRIGERANT OIL VAPOR OR MIST. EXPOSURE
MAY IRRITATE THE EYES, NOSE, AND/OR THROAT.
WEAR EYE PROTECTION WHEN SERVICING THE
AIR CONDITIONING REFRIGERANT SYSTEM. SERI-
OUS EYE INJURY CAN RESULT FROM DIRECT
CONTACT WITH THE REFRIGERANT. IF EYE CON-
TACT OCCURS, SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION IMME-
DIATELY.
DO NOT EXPOSE THE REFRIGERANT TO OPEN
FLAME. POISONOUS GAS IS CREATED WHEN
REFRIGERANT IS BURNED. AN ELECTRONIC LEAK
DETECTOR IS RECOMMENDED.
IF ACCIDENTAL SYSTEM DISCHARGE OCCURS,
VENTILATE THE WORK AREA BEFORE RESUMING
SERVICE. LARGE AMOUNTS OF REFRIGERANT
RELEASED IN A CLOSED WORK AREA WILL DIS-
PLACE THE OXYGEN AND CAUSE SUFFOCATION.
THE EVAPORATION RATE OF R-134a REFRIGER-
ANT AT AVERAGE TEMPERATURE AND ALTITUDE
IS EXTREMELY HIGH. AS A RESULT, ANYTHING
THAT COMES IN CONTACT WITH THE REFRIGER-
ANT WILL FREEZE. ALWAYS PROTECT THE SKIN
OR DELICATE OBJECTS FROM DIRECT CONTACT
WITH THE REFRIGERANT.
THE R-134a SERVICE EQUIPMENT OR THE VEHI-
CLE REFRIGERANT SYSTEM SHOULD NOT BE
PRESSURE 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 PROP-
ERTY DAMAGE.
CAUTION - A/C SYSTEM
CAUTION: Liquid refrigerant is corrosive to metal
surfaces. Follow the operating instructions supplied
with the service equipment being used.
Never add R-12 to a refrigerant system designed to
use R-134a and do not use R-12 equipment or parts
on the R-134a system. Damage to the system will
result.
R-12 refrigerant oil must not be mixed with R-134a
refrigerant oil. They are not compatible and damage
to the system will result.Do not overcharge the refrigerant system. Over-
charging will cause excessive compressor head
pressure and can cause noise and system failure.
Recover the refrigerant before opening any fitting
or connection. Open the fittings with caution, even
after the system has been discharged. Never open
or loosen a connection before recovering the refrig-
erant.
If equipped, do not remove the secondary retention
clip from any spring-lock coupler connection while
the refrigerant system is under pressure. Recover
the refrigerant before removing the secondary
retention clip. Open the fittings with caution, even
after the system has been discharged. Never open
or loosen a connection before recovering the refrig-
erant.
Do not open the refrigerant system or uncap a
replacement component until you are ready to ser-
vice the system. This will prevent contamination in
the system. Before disconnecting a component,
clean the outside of the fittings thoroughly to pre-
vent contamination from entering the refrigerant
system. Immediately after disconnecting a compo-
nent from the refrigerant system, seal the open fit-
tings with a cap or plug.
Refrigerant oil will absorb moisture from the atmo-
sphere if left uncapped. Do not open a container of
refrigerant oil until you are ready to use it. Replace
the cap on the oil container immediately after using.
Store refrigerant oil only in a clean, airtight, and
moisture-free container.
Keep service tools and the work area clean. Con-
tamination of the refrigerant system must be
avoided.
CAUTION: The use of A/C system sealers may
result in damage to A/C refrigerant recovery/evacu-
ation/recharging equipment and/or A/C systems.
Many federal, state/provincial and local regulations
prohibit the recharge of A/C systems with known
leaks. DaimlerChrysler recommends the detection
of A/C system leaks through the use of approved
leak detectors and fluorescent leak detection dyes.
Vehicles found with A/C system sealers should be
treated as contaminated and replacement of the
entire A/C refrigerant system is recommended. A/C
systems found to be contaminated with A/C system
sealers, A/C stop-leak products or seal conditioners
voids the warranty for the A/C system.
24 - 66 PLUMBING - FRONTRS
PLUMBING - FRONT (Continued)

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
REFRIGERANT SYSTEM LEAKS
WARNING: R-134a SERVICE EQUIPMENT OR VEHI-
CLE A/C SYSTEM SHOULD NOT BE PRESSURE
TESTED OR LEAK TESTED WITH COMPRESSED
AIR. MIXTURE OF AIR and R-134a CAN BE COMBUS-
TIBLE AT ELEVATED PRESSURES. THESE MIX-
TURES ARE POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS AND MAY
RESULT IN FIRE OR EXPLOSION CAUSING INJURY
OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.
AVOID BREATHING A/C REFRIGERANT AND LUBRI-
CANT VAPOR OR MIST. EXPOSURE MAY IRRITATE
EYES, NOSE AND THROAT. USE ONLY APPROVED
SERVICE EQUIPMENT MEETING SAE REQUIRE-
MENTS TO DISCHARGE R-134a SYSTEM. IF ACCI-
DENTAL SYSTEM DISCHARGE OCCURS, VENTILATE
WORK AREA BEFORE RESUMING SERVICE.
If the A/C system is not cooling properly, determine
if the refrigerant system is fully charged with R-134a
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - FRONT/REFRIGERANT - DIAGNO-
SIS AND TESTING - REFRIGERANT SYSTEM
CHARGE LEVEL). If while performing this test A/C
liquid line pressure is less than 345 kPa (50 psi) pro-
ceed to System Empty procedure. If liquid line pres-
sure is greater than 345 kPa (50 psi) proceed to
System Low procedure. If the refrigerant system is
empty or low in refrigerant charge, a leak at any line
fitting or component seal is likely. A review of the fit-
tings, lines and components for oily residue is an
indication of the leak location.
To detect a leak in the refrigerant system, perform
one of the following procedures as indicated by the
results of the refrigerant system charge level test.
SYSTEM EMPTY
(1) Evacuate the refrigerant system to the lowest
degree of vacuum possible (approx. 28 in Hg.) (Refer
to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMB-
ING - FRONT/REFRIGERANT - STANDARD PRO-
CEDURE - REFRIGERANT SYSTEM EVACUATE).
Determine if the system holds a vacuum for 15 min-
utes. If vacuum is held, a leak is probably not
present. If system will not maintain vacuum level,
proceed with this procedure.
(2) Prepare a 0.284 Kg. (10 oz.) refrigerant charge
to be injected into the system.
(3) Connect and dispense 0.284 Kg. (10 oz.) of
refrigerant into the evacuated refrigerant system
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - FRONT/REFRIGERANT - STANDARD
PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT SYSTEM CHARGE).
(4) Proceed to the SYSTEM LOW procedures.SYSTEM LOW
(1) Position the vehicle in a wind-free work area.
This will aid in detecting small leaks.
(2) Bring the refrigerant system up to operating
temperature and pressure. This is done by allowing
the engine to run for five minutes with the system
set to the following:
²Transaxle in Park
²Engine idling
²Rear A/C Off (if equipped)
²A/C controls set to 100 percent outside air
²Blower switch in the highest speed position
²A/C in the ON position
²Front windows open
CAUTION: A leak detector designed for R-12 refrig-
erant (only) will not detect leaks in a R-134a refrig-
erant system.
(3) Shut off the vehicle and wait 2 to 7 minutes.
Then use an Electronic Leak Detector that is
designed to detect R-134a type refrigerant and search
for leaks. Fittings, lines, or components that appear
to be oily usually indicates a refrigerant leak. To
inspect the evaporator core for leaks, insert the leak
detector probe into the drain tube opening or a heat
duct. A R-134a dye is available to aid in leak detec-
tion, use only DaimlerChrysler approved refrigerant
dye.
SYSTEM CHARGE LEVEL TEST
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: Always refer to the underhood HVAC Speci-
fication Label for the refrigerant fill specification of
the vehicle being serviced.
The procedure that follows should be used to deter-
mine whether the refrigerant system contains the
proper refrigerant charge. Symptoms of an improper
refrigerant charge (low) include: poor air conditioner
performance, fog emitted from the air conditioner
outlets, a hissing sound from the expansion valve/
evaporator area. There are two different methods
with which the refrigerant charge level may be
tested:
1. Using a DRBIIItscan tool, a thermocouple and
the Charge Determination Chart (Fig. 1). Refer to
the appropriate diagnostic information.
RSPLUMBING - FRONT24-67
PLUMBING - FRONT (Continued)

2. Using a manifold gauge set, a thermocouple and
the Charge Determination Chart (Fig. 1).
A temperature probe is required to measure liquid
line temperature. The clamp-on, Type K thermocou-
ple temperature probe used in this procedure is
available through the DaimlerChrysler Professional
Service Equipment (PSE) program. This probe (PSE
#66-324-0014 or #80PK-1A) is compatible with tem-
perature-measuring instruments that accept Type K
thermocouples, and have a miniature connector
input. Other temperature probes are available
through aftermarket sources; however, all references
in this procedure will reflect the use of the probe
made available through the PSE program.
In order to use the temperature probe, a digital
thermometer will also be required. If a digital ther-
mometer is not available, an adapter is available
through the PSE program that will convert any stan-
dard digital multimeter into a digital thermometer.
This adapter is designed to accept any standard Type
K thermocouple. If a digital multimeter is not avail-
able, this tool is also available through the PSE pro-
gram.NOTE: When connecting the service equipment
couplings to the refrigerant system service ports,
be certain that the valve of each coupling is fully
closed. This will reduce the amount of effort
required to make the connection.
(1) Remove the caps from the refrigerant system
service ports and attach a manifold gauge set or a
R-134a refrigerant recovery/recycling/charging sta-
tion that meets SAE Standard J2210 to the refriger-
ant system.
(2) Attach a clamp-on thermocouple to the liquid
line. The thermocouple must be placed as close to the
A/C pressure transducer as possible to accurately
observe liquid line temperature.
(3) Bring the refrigerant system up to operating
temperature and pressure. This is done by allowing
the engine to run at idle under the following condi-
tions for five minutes.
(a) Front windows are open.
(b) Transaxle in Park.
(c) Front heater-A/C controls set to outside air,
full cool, panel mode, blower high, and compressor
engaged.
(d) If the vehicle is so equipped, the rear heater-
A/C controls must be set to full cool and blower
high.
Fig. 1 Charge Determination Chart, Ambient Test Condition 85ÉF
24 - 68 PLUMBING - FRONTRS
PLUMBING - FRONT (Continued)