service CHRYSLER VOYAGER 2005 Service Manual
[x] Cancel search | Manufacturer: CHRYSLER, Model Year: 2005, Model line: VOYAGER, Model: CHRYSLER VOYAGER 2005Pages: 2339, PDF Size: 59.69 MB
Page 2206 of 2339

INSTRUMENT PANEL DUCTS
REMOVAL
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISO-
LATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE,
THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR THE AIRBAG SYS-
TEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PER-
FORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS
IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG
SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRE-
CAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIR-
BAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL
INJURY.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Remove the instrument panel from the vehicle
(Refer to 23 - BODY/INSTRUMENT PANEL/IN-
STRUMENT PANEL ASSEMBLY - REMOVAL).(3) Place the instrument panel face down on a
suitable work surface. Be certain to take the proper
precautions to protect the face of the instrument
panel from cosmetic damage.
(4) Remove the screws that secure the panel ducts
to the instrument panel armature.
(5) Disengage the panel ducts from the panel out-
lets.
(6) Remove the panel ducts from the instrument
panel.
INSTALLATION
(1) Position the panel ducts to the instrument
panel.
(2) Engage the panel ducts to the panel outlets.
(3) Install the screws that secure the panel ducts
to the instrument panel armature.
(4) Reinstall the instrument panel into the vehicle
(Refer to 23 - BODY/INSTRUMENT PANEL/IN-
STRUMENT PANEL ASSEMBLY - INSTALLA-
TION).
(5) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
RSDISTRIBUTION - FRONT24-55
Page 2207 of 2339

DISTRIBUTION - REAR
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
AIR OUTLETS
DESCRIPTION.........................56
REMOVAL.............................56
INSTALLATION.........................56
DISTRIBUTION DUCT
REMOVAL.............................57
INSTALLATION.........................57
BLOWER MOTOR
DESCRIPTION.........................57
OPERATION...........................57DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
REAR BLOWER MOTOR................58
REMOVAL.............................58
INSTALLATION.........................60
HVAC HOUSING
REMOVAL.............................60
INSTALLATION.........................62
REAR FLOOR HEAT DUCT
REMOVAL.............................63
INSTALLATION.........................63
AIR OUTLETS
DESCRIPTION
Based upon the system mode selected, conditioned
air can exit the rear HVAC housing through one or a
combination of the two main housing outlets: air con-
ditioner, or heater. Once the conditioned air exits the
unit housing, it is directed through molded plastic
ducts to the various outlets in the vehicle interior.
These outlets and their locations are as follows:
²Floor Outlets- Three floor outlets with fixed
vanes are located in the right quarter trim panel,
near the floor. These outlets distribute air from the
rear floor heat duct to the intermediate and rear seat
occupants. The floor outlets are integral to the right
quarter trim panel and, if faulty or damaged, the
quarter trim panel must be replaced.
²Overhead Outlets- Four (two right side and
two left side) fully adjustable outlets along the roof
rails distribute air from the rear distribution duct
and the headliner ducts to the intermediate and rear
seat occupants. The headliner ducts are integral to
the headliner panel. Each overhead outlet is housed
in a headliner bezel. The two forward headliner
bezels also feature a courtesy lamp, a fold-away coat
hook, and a fold-away assist handle. The overhead
outlets can be removed from the headliner bezels
individually for service replacement.
REMOVAL
(1) Using a trim stick or another suitable wide
flat-bladed tool, gently pry the thumb wheel end of
the overhead outlet away from the pivot pin in the
headliner bezel until one end of the outlet is released
(Fig. 1).(2) Pull the opposite end of the overhead outlet
away from its pivot pin in the headliner bezel until
that end of the outlet is released.
(3) Remove the overhead outlet from the opening
in the headliner bezel.
INSTALLATION
(1) Position the overhead outlet into the opening in
the headliner bezel.
(2) Slide the non-thumb wheel end of the outlet
onto the pivot pin in the headliner bezel. Using hand
pressure, push the thumb wheel end outboard onto
the pivot pin until it fully seats.
Fig. 1 Overhead Outlet
1 - HEADLINER BEZEL
2 - OVERHEAD OUTLET
3 - TRIM STICK
4 - COURTESY LAMP
5 - COAT HOOK
6 - ASSIST HANDLE
24 - 56 DISTRIBUTION - REARRS
Page 2208 of 2339

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
Page 2213 of 2339

INSTALLATION
NOTE: If the rear heater core or the rear HVAC
housing have been removed from the vehicle for
service, the rear heater core may be pre-filled with
the proper engine coolant mixture prior to recon-
necting the heater hoses to the heater core hose fit-
tings (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - REAR/HEATER CORE - STANDARD
PROCEDURE - HEATER CORE FILLING).
(1) Position the rear HVAC housing into the vehi-
cle with the evaporator extension line sealing plate
inserted into the rectangular hole in the rear floor
panel behind the right rear wheel house.
(2) Align the rear HVAC housing lower mounting
studs with the holes in the rear floor panel and lower
the rear HVAC housing to the floor.
(3) 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.).(4) 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.).
(5) Remove the plugs or tape from both heater core
fittings and both heater hoses.
(6) Reconnect the heater hoses to the rear heater
core (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITION-
ING/PLUMBING - REAR/HEATER HOSE - INSTAL-
LATION).
(7) Reinstall the rear floor heat duct onto the right
quarter inner panel (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR
CONDITIONING/DISTRIBUTION/REAR FLOOR
HEAT DUCT - INSTALLATION).
(8) Install the two screws that secure the bottom
of the quarter trim panel attaching bracket to the
rear HVAC housing. Tighten the screws to 2 N´m (17
in. lbs.).
(9) Install and tighten the two screws that secure
the top of the quarter trim panel attaching bracket to
the quarter inner panel.
Fig. 8 Rear HVAC Housing ± Typical
1 - U-NUT (3)
2 - REAR HVAC HOUSING
3 - SCREW (3)
4 - EXPANSION VALVE5 - STUD (2 w/NSE, 3 wo/NSE)
6 - HEATER LINES
7 - NUT (5)
8 - STUD (2)
24 - 62 DISTRIBUTION - REARRS
HVAC HOUSING (Continued)
Page 2215 of 2339

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
Page 2216 of 2339

PLUMBING - FRONT
DESCRIPTION
CAUTION: The system must be completely empty
before opening any fitting or connection in the
refrigeration system. Open fittings with caution
even after the system has been emptied. If any
pressure is noticed as a fitting is loosened,
retighten fitting and evacuate the system again.
The use of correct wrenches when making connec-
tions is very important. Improper wrenches or
improper use of wrenches can damage the fittings.
The internal parts of the A/C system will remain sta-
ble as long as moisture-free refrigerant and refrig-
erant oil is used. Abnormal amounts of dirt,
moisture or air can upset the chemical stability.
This may cause operational troubles or even seri-
ous damage if present in more than very small
quantities. Before disconnecting a refrigerant line
or hose, clean the outside of the fittings thoroughly
to prevent contamination from entering the refriger-
ant system.
When opening a refrigeration system, have every-
thing you will need to repair the system ready to
minimize the amount of time the system is opened.
Cap or plug all refrigerant line fittings as soon as
they are opened. This will help prevent the entrance
of dirt and moisture. All new lines and components
should be capped or sealed until they are ready to
be used. Before connecting a refrigerant line or
hose, clean the outside of the fittings thoroughly to
prevent contamination from entering the refrigerant
system.
All tools, including the refrigerant dispensing mani-
fold, manifold gauge set and test hoses should be
kept clean and dry.
The A/C refrigerant lines and hoses are used to
carry the refrigerant between the various A/C system
components. The refrigerant lines and hoses for the
R-134a system on this vehicle consist of a barrier-
hose design with a nylon tube sandwiched between
rubber layers. The nylon tube helps to contain the
R-134a refrigerant, which has a smaller molecular
structure than R-12 refrigerant. The ends of the
refrigerant lines are made from lightweight alumi-
num or steel, and commonly use braze-less fittings.Any kinks or sharp bends in the refrigerant lines
and hoses will reduce the capacity of the entire A/C
system and can reduce the flow of refrigerant in the
system. The radius of all bends in the flexible hose
refrigerant lines should be at least ten times the
diameter of the hose and the refrigerant lines should
be routed so they are at least 80 millimeters (3
inches) away from the exhaust manifold(s) and
exhaust pipe(s).
OPERATION
High pressures are produced in the refrigerant sys-
tem when the A/C compressor is operating. Extreme
care must be exercised to make sure that each of the
refrigerant system connections is pressure-tight and
leak free. It is a good practice to inspect all flexible
hose refrigerant lines at least once a year to make
sure they are in good condition and properly routed.
The refrigerant lines and hoses are coupled to
other A/C system components with block-type fit-
tings. An O-ring seal, or a flat steel gasket with an
integral O-ring (dual plane seal), is used to mate the
refrigerant line fittings with A/C system components
to ensure the integrity of the refrigerant system.
The refrigerant lines and hoses cannot be repaired
and, if faulty or damaged, they must be replaced.
WARNING
ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM
WARNING: THE ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM IS
DESIGNED TO DEVELOP INTERNAL PRESSURES
OF 97 TO 123 KILOPASCALS (14 TO 18 POUNDS
PER SQUARE INCH). DO NOT REMOVE OR
LOOSEN THE COOLANT PRESSURE CAP, CYLIN-
DER BLOCK DRAIN PLUGS, RADIATOR DRAIN,
RADIATOR HOSES, HEATER HOSES, OR HOSE
CLAMPS WHILE THE ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM IS
HOT AND UNDER PRESSURE. FAILURE TO
OBSERVE THIS WARNING CAN RESULT IN SERI-
OUS BURNS FROM THE HEATED ENGINE COOL-
ANT. ALLOW THE VEHICLE TO COOL FOR A
MINIMUM OF 15 MINUTES BEFORE OPENING THE
COOLING SYSTEM FOR SERVICE.
RSPLUMBING - FRONT24-65
Page 2217 of 2339

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)
Page 2218 of 2339

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)
Page 2219 of 2339

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)
Page 2220 of 2339

(4) Raise the liquid line (discharge) pressure to
about 1793 kPa (260 psi) by placing a piece of card-
board over part of the front side of the condenser. To
place the cardboard properly, remove the upper radi-
ator sight shield from the front fascia. Cover only
enough of the condenser to raise and maintain the
liquid line pressure at the specified level.
(5) Observe the liquid line (discharge) pressure
and liquid line temperature. Using the Charge Deter-
mination Chart (Fig. 1), determine whether the
refrigerant system is operating within the Proper
Charge Range.
(a) If the refrigerant system is operating in the
Undercharged area of the chart, add 0.057 kilo-
gram (0.125 pound or 2 ounces) of refrigerant to
the system.
(b) If the refrigerant system is operating in the
Overcharged area of the chart, reclaim 0.057 kilo-
gram (0.125 pound or 2 ounces) of refrigerant from
the system.
(6) Recheck the system charge level following each
refrigerant adjustment. Continue this process until
the system readings are in the Proper Charge Range
area on the Charge Determination Chart.
STANDARD PROCEDURE
HANDLING TUBING AND FITTINGS
CAUTION: The system must be completely empty
before opening any fitting or connection in the
refrigeration system. Open fittings with caution
even after the system has been emptied. If any
pressure is noticed as a fitting is loosened,
retighten fitting and evacuate the system again.
A good rule for the flexible hose lines is to keep the
radius of all bends at least 10 times the diameter of
the hose. Sharper bends will reduce the flow of
refrigerant. The flexible hose lines should be routed
so they are at least 3 inches (80 mm) from the
exhaust manifold. Inspect all flexible hose lines to
make sure they are in good condition and properly
routed.
The use of correct wrenches when making connec-
tions is very important. Improper wrenches or
improper use of wrenches can damage the fittings.
The internal parts of the A/C system will remain sta-
ble as long as moisture-free refrigerant and refrig-
erant oil is used. Abnormal amounts of dirt,
moisture or air can upset the chemical stability.
This may cause operational troubles or even seri-
ous damage if present in more than very small
quantities. Before disconnecting a component,
clean the outside of the fittings thoroughly to pre-
vent contamination from entering the refrigerant
system.When opening a refrigeration system, have every-
thing you will need to repair the system ready. This
will minimize the amount of time the system must
be opened. Cap or plug all lines and fittings as
soon as they are opened. This will help prevent the
entrance of dirt and moisture. All new lines and
components should be capped or sealed until they
are ready to be used. Before connecting a compo-
nent, clean the outside of the fittings thoroughly to
prevent contamination from entering the refrigerant
system.
All tools, including the refrigerant dispensing mani-
fold, the manifold gauge set, and test hoses should
be kept clean and dry.
Kinks in the refrigerant tubing or sharp bends in
the refrigerant hose lines will greatly reduce the
capacity of the entire system. High pressures are pro-
duced in the system when it is operating. Extreme
care must be exercised to make sure that all connec-
tions are pressure tight. Dirt and moisture can enter
the system when it is opened for repair or replace-
ment of lines or components. The refrigerant oil will
absorb moisture readily out of the air. This moisture
will convert into acids within a closed system.
REFRIGERANT SYSTEM SERVICE EQUIPMENT
WARNING: EYE PROTECTION MUST BE WORN
WHEN SERVICING AN AIR CONDITIONING REFRIG-
ERANT SYSTEM. TURN OFF (ROTATE CLOCKWISE)
ALL VALVES ON THE EQUIPMENT BEING USED
BEFORE CONNECTING TO, OR DISCONNECTING
FROM THE REFRIGERANT SYSTEM. FAILURE TO
OBSERVE THESE WARNINGS MAY RESULT IN PER-
SONAL INJURY.
WARNING: REVIEW THE WARNINGS AND CAU-
TIONS IN THE FRONT OF THIS SECTION BEFORE
PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING OPERATION (Refer
to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
WARNING) and (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CON-
DITIONING/PLUMBING - CAUTION).
RECOVERY/RECYCLING STATION
When servicing the air conditioning system, a
R-134a refrigerant recovery/recycling/charging sta-
tion that meets SEA Standard J2210 must be used
(Fig. 2). Contact an automotive service equipment
supplier for refrigerant recovery/recycling/charging
equipment. See the operating instructions supplied
by the equipment manufacturer for proper care and
use of this equipment.
RSPLUMBING - FRONT24-69
PLUMBING - FRONT (Continued)