section 5 DODGE RAM 1500 1998 2.G Workshop Manual
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Page 2534 of 2627

STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT
RECOVERY
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).
A R-134a refrigerant recovery/recycling/charging
station that meets SAE Standard J2210 must be
used to recover the refrigerant from an R-134a refrig-
erant system. Refer to the operating instructions sup-
plied by the equipment manufacturer for the proper
care and use of this equipment.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT
SYSTEM EVACUATE
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) Recover the refrigerant system (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
STANDARD PROCEDURE).
(2) Connect a suitable charging station, refrigerant
recovery machine or a manifold gauge set with vac-
uum pump and refrigerant recovery equipment.
(3) 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 greaterfor 30 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.
(4) Close all valves. Turn off and disconnect the
vacuum pump.
(5) Charge the refrigerant system (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
STANDARD PROCEDURE).
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT
SYSTEM CHARGE
WARNING: REVIEW SAFETY PRECAUTIONS AND
WARNINGS IN THIS GROUP BEFORE CHARGING
THE REFRIGERANT SYSTEM.
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 SER-
VICE.
R-134a SERVICE EQUIPMENT OR VEHICLE A/C
SYSTEM SHOULD NOT BE PRESSURE TESTED OR
LEAK TESTED WITH COMPRESSED AIR. MIXTURE
OF AIR and R-134a CAN BE COMBUSTIBLE AT ELE-
VATED PRESSURES. THESE MIXTURES ARE
POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS AND MAY RESULT IN
FIRE OR EXPLOSION CAUSING INJURY OR PROP-
ERTY DAMAGE.
CAUTION: Do not overcharge refrigerant system, as
excessive compressor head pressure can cause
noise and system failure.
CAUTION: A small amount of refrigerant oil is
removed from the A/C system each time the refrig-
erant system is recovered and evacuated. Before
charging the A/C system, you MUST replenish any
oil lost during the recovery process. Refer the
equipment manufacturer instructions for more infor-
mation.
The procedure below should be used to fill the
refrigerant charge in the air conditioning system.
This A/C system does not have or use a sight glass to
check or charge the system.
DRPLUMBING 24 - 47
PLUMBING (Continued)
Page 2536 of 2627

when a minimum discharge pressure of 2756 kPa
(400 psi) is reached.
The high pressure relief valve vents only enough
refrigerant to reduce the system pressure, and then
re-seats itself. The majority of the refrigerant is con-
served in the system. If the valve vents refrigerant, it
does not mean that the valve is faulty.
The high pressure relief valve is a factory-cali-
brated unit. The valve cannot be adjusted or
repaired, and must not be removed or otherwise dis-
turbed. The valve is only serviced as a part of the
compressor assembly.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - A/C COMPRESSOR
When investigating an air conditioning related
noise, you must first know the conditions under
which the noise occurs. These conditions include:
weather, vehicle speed, transmission in gear or neu-
tral, engine speed, engine temperature, and any
other special conditions. Noises that develop during
air conditioning operation can often be misleading.
For example: What sounds like a failed front bearing
or connecting rod, may be caused by loose bolts, nuts,
mounting brackets, or a loose compressor clutch
assembly.
Drive belts are speed sensitive. At different engine
speeds and depending upon belt tension, belts can
develop noises that are mistaken for a compressor
noise. Improper belt tension can cause a misleading
noise when the compressor clutch is engaged, which
may not occur when the compressor clutch is disen-
gaged. Check the serpentine drive belt condition and
tension as described in Cooling before beginning this
procedure.
(1) Select a quiet area for testing. Duplicate the
complaint conditions as much as possible. Switch the
compressor on and off several times to clearly iden-
tify the compressor noise. Listen to the compressor
while the clutch is engaged and disengaged. Probe
the compressor with an engine stethoscope or a long
screwdriver with the handle held to your ear to bet-
ter localize the source of the noise.
(2) Loosen all of the compressor mounting hard-
ware and retighten. Tighten the compressor clutch
mounting nut. Be certain that the clutch coil is
mounted securely to the compressor, and that the
clutch plate and rotor are properly aligned and have
the correct air gap (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR
CONDITIONING/CONTROLS/A/C COMPRESSOR
CLUTCH - INSTALLATION).
(3) To duplicate a high-ambient temperature condi-
tion (high head pressure), restrict the air flow
through the condenser. Install a manifold gauge set
or a DRBIIItscan tool to be certain that the dis-
charge pressure does not exceed 2760 kPa (400 psi).(4) Check the refrigerant system plumbing for
incorrect routing, rubbing or interference, which can
cause unusual noises. Also check the refrigerant lines
for kinks or sharp bends that will restrict refrigerant
flow, which can cause noises (Refer to 24 - HEATING
& AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING - STANDARD
PROCEDURE).
(5) If the noise is from opening and closing of the
high pressure relief valve, recover, evacuate and
recharge the refrigerant system (Refer to 24 - HEAT-
ING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING - STAN-
DARD PROCEDURE), (Refer to 24 - HEATING &
AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING - STANDARD
PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT SYSTEM EVACU-
ATE) and (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING/PLUMBING - STANDARD PROCEDURE -
REFRIGERANT SYSTEM CHARGE). If the high
pressure relief valve still does not seat properly,
replace the compressor (Refer to 24 - HEATING &
AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING/A/C COMPRES-
SOR - REMOVAL).
(6) If the noise is from liquid slugging on the suc-
tion line, replace the accumulator (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING/AC-
CUMULATOR - REMOVAL) and check the refriger-
ant oil level and the refrigerant system charge (Refer
to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMB-
ING/REFRIGERANT OIL - STANDARD PROCE-
DURE) (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR
CONDITIONING/PLUMBING/ACCUMULATOR -
REMOVAL). If after replacing the accumulator the
slugging condition still exists then replace the com-
pressor.(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITION-
ING/PLUMBING/A/C COMPRESSOR - REMOVAL).
(7) If the liquid slugging condition continues fol-
lowing accumulator replacement, replace the com-
pressor and repeat Step 1.
REMOVAL
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).
NOTE: The A/C compressor may be removed and
repositioned without disconnecting the refrigerant
lines or discharging the refrigerant system. Dis-
charging is not necessary if servicing the compres-
sor clutch, clutch coil, engine, engine cylinder head
or the generator.
(1) Recover the refrigerant from the refrigerant
system (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITION-
DRPLUMBING 24 - 49
A/C COMPRESSOR (Continued)
Page 2539 of 2627

(11) Install the serpentine drive belt (Refer to 7 -
COOLING/ACCESSORY DRIVE/DRIVE BELTS -
INSTALLATION).
(12) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
(13) Evacuate the refrigerant system (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
STANDARD PROCEDURE).
(14) Charge the refrigerant system (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
STANDARD PROCEDURE).
A/C CONDENSER
DESCRIPTION
The condenser is located in the air flow next to the
engine cooling radiator. The condenser is a heat
exchanger that allows the high-pressure refrigerant
gas being discharged by the compressor to give up its
heat to the air passing over the condenser fins.
OPERATION
When air passes through the condenser fins, the
high-pressure refrigerant gas within the A/C con-
denser gives up its heat. The refrigerant then con-
denses as it leaves the A/C condenser and becomes a
high-pressure liquid. The volume of air flowing over
the condenser fins is critical to the proper cooling
performance of the air conditioning system. There-fore, it is important that there are no objects placed
in front of the radiator grille openings at the front of
the vehicle or foreign material on the condenser fins
that might obstruct proper air flow. Also, any factory-
installed air seals or shrouds must be properly rein-
stalled following radiator or A/C condenser service.
The A/C condenser cannot be repaired and, if
faulty or damaged, it must be replaced.
REMOVAL
REMOVAL - 3.7, 4.7 AND 5.7L ENGINES
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).
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Recover the refrigerant from the refrigerant
system (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITION-
ING/PLUMBING - STANDARD PROCEDURE -
REFRIGERANT RECOVERY).
(3) Remove the nut that secures the discharge line
fitting to the condenser inlet port (Fig. 10).
(4) Disconnect the discharge line from the con-
denser.
(5) Remove the seal from the discharge line fitting
and discard.
(6) Install plugs in, or tape over the discharge line
fitting and condenser inlet port.
(7) Remove the plastic cover from the condenser
outlet stud.
(8) Remove the nut that secures the liquid line fit-
ting to the condenser outlet.
(9) Disconnect the liquid line from the condenser.
(10) Remove the seal from the liquid line fitting
and discard.
(11) Install plugs in, or tape over the liquid line
fitting and condenser outlet port.
(12) Disconnect the wire harness connector from
the condenser cooling fan motor (Fig. 11).
(13) Remove the two bolts that secure the con-
denser to the front upper crossmember.
(14) Remove the condenser/cooling fan assembly
from the vehicle.
(15) Place the condenser/cooling fan assembly on a
flat work area and remove the four screws that
secure the cooling fan to the condenser.
(16) Separate the cooling fan from the condenser.
Fig. 9 A/C Compressor - 5.9L Diesel
1 - ENGINE BLOCK
2 - MOUNTING BRACKET
3 - A/C COMPRESSOR
4 - BOLT (4)
24 - 52 PLUMBINGDR
A/C COMPRESSOR (Continued)
Page 2540 of 2627

REMOVAL - 5.9L DIESEL ENGINE
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).
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Recover the refrigerant from the refrigerant
system (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITION-
ING/PLUMBING - STANDARD PROCEDURE -
REFRIGERANT RECOVERY).
(3) Remove the plastic cover from the condenser
inlet stud.
(4) Remove the nut that secures the discharge line
fitting to the condenser inlet port (Fig. 12).
(5) Disconnect the discharge line from the con-
denser.
(6) Remove the seal from the discharge line fitting
and discard.
(7) Install plugs in, or tape over the discharge line
fitting and condenser inlet port.
(8) Remove the plastic cover from the condenser
outlet stud.
(9) Remove the nut that secures the liquid line fit-
ting to the condenser outlet.
(10) Disconnect the liquid line from the condenser.
(11) Remove the seal from the liquid line fitting
and discard.
(12) Install plugs in, or tape over the liquid line
fitting and condenser inlet port.
(13) Remove the four bolts that secure the con-
denser to the charge air cooler.
(14) Remove the condenser from the engine com-
partment.
INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION - 3.7, 4.7 AND 5.7L ENGINES
NOTE: If the condenser is replaced, add 30 millili-
ters (1 fluid ounce) of refrigerant oil to the refriger-
ant system. Use only refrigerant oil of the type
recommended for the compressor in the vehicle.
(1) Position the condenser cooling fan onto the A/C
condenser.
(2) Install and tighten the four screws that secure
the condenser cooling fan to the A/C condenser.
Tighten the screws to 2.2 N´m (20 in. lbs.).
(3) Carefully position the condenser/cooling fan
assembly into the engine compartment.
Fig. 10 A/C Discharge Line - 3.7L Shown, 4.7L/5.7L
Typical
1 - NUT
2 - FRONT UPPER CROSSMEMBER
3 - A/C CONDENSER
4 - NUT (2)
5 - SUCTION LINE
6 - A/C COMPRESSOR
7 - A/C PRESSURE TRANSDUCER
8 - WIRE HARNESS CONNECTOR
9 - A/C DISCHARGE LINE
Fig. 11 Condenser/Cooling Fan Assembly
1 - LH MOUNTING BOLT
2 - FRONT UPPER CROSSMEMBER
3 - LOWER MOUNTING FLANGE
4 - UPPER MOUNTING SCREW (2)
5 - LOWER MOUNTING SCREW (2)
6 - MOUNTING TABS
7 - CONDENSER COOLING FAN MOTOR
8 - COOLING FAN WIRE CONNECTOR
9 - RH MOUNTING BOLT
DRPLUMBING 24 - 53
A/C CONDENSER (Continued)
Page 2542 of 2627

(10) Connect the discharge line to the condenser
inlet port.
(11) Install and tighten the nut that secures the
discharge line fitting to the condenser. Tighten the
nut to 20 N´m (180 in. lbs.).
(12) Install the plastic cover onto the condenser
inlet stud.
(13) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
(14) Evacuate the refrigerant system (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT SYS-
TEM EVACUATE).
(15) Charge the refrigerant system (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT SYS-
TEM CHARGE).
A/C CONDENSER FAN
REMOVAL - 3.7, 4.7 and 5.7L ENGINES
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).
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Recover the refrigerant from the refrigerant
system (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITION-
ING/PLUMBING - STANDARD PROCEDURE -
REFRIGERANT RECOVERY).
(3) Remove the nut that secures the discharge line
fitting to the condenser inlet port (Fig. 13).
(4) Disconnect the discharge line from the con-
denser.
(5) Remove the seal from the discharge line fitting
and discard.
(6) Install plugs in, or tape over the discharge line
fitting and condenser inlet port.
(7) Remove the plastic cover from the condenser
outlet stud.
(8) Remove the nut that secures the liquid line fit-
ting to the condenser outlet.
(9) Disconnect the liquid line from the condenser.
(10) Remove the seal from the liquid line fitting
and discard.
(11) Install plugs in, or tape over the liquid line
fitting and condenser inlet port.
(12) Disconnect the wire harness connector from
the condenser cooling fan motor (Fig. 14).
(13) Remove the two bolts that secure the con-
denser to the front upper crossmember.(14) Remove the condenser/cooling fan assembly
from the vehicle.
(15) Place the condenser/cooling fan assembly on a
flat work area and remove the four screws that
secure the cooling fan to the condenser.
(16) Separate the cooling fan from the condenser.
INSTALLATION - 3.7, 4.7 and 5.7L ENGINES
(1) Position the condenser cooling fan onto the A/C
condenser.
(2) Install and tighten the four screws that secure
the condenser cooling fan to the A/C condenser.
Tighten the screws to 2.2 N´m (20 in. lbs.).
(3) Carefully position the condenser/cooling fan
assembly into the engine compartment.
(4) Align the condenser lower mounting tabs to the
mounting flanges.
(5) Install the two bolts that secure the condenser/
cooling fan assembly to the upper front crossmember.
Tighten the bolts to 10.5 N´m (95 in. lbs.).
(6) Connect the wire harness connector to the con-
denser cooling fan motor.
(7) Remove the tape or plugs from the liquid line
fitting and condenser outlet port.
Fig. 13 A/C Discharge Line - 3.7L Shown, 4.7L/5.7L
Typical
1 - NUT
2 - FRONT UPPER CROSSMEMBER
3 - A/C CONDENSER
4 - NUT (2)
5 - SUCTION LINE
6 - A/C COMPRESSOR
7 - A/C PRESSURE TRANSDUCER
8 - WIRE HARNESS CONNECTOR
9 - A/C DISCHARGE LINE
DRPLUMBING 24 - 55
A/C CONDENSER (Continued)
Page 2543 of 2627

(8) Lubricate a new rubber O-ring seal with clean
refrigerant oil and install it on the liquid line fitting.
Use only the specified O-ring as it is made of a spe-
cial material for the R-134a system. Use only refrig-
erant oil of the type recommended for the A/C
compressor in the vehicle.
(9) Connect the liquid line to the condenser outlet
port.
(10) Install and tighten the nut that secures the
liquid line fitting to the condenser. Tighten the nut to
20 N´m (180 in. lbs.).
(11) Install the plastic cover onto the condenser
outlet stud.
(12) Remove the tape or plugs from the suction
line fitting and condenser inlet port.
(13) Lubricate a new rubber O-ring seal with clean
refrigerant oil and install it on the suction line fit-
ting. Use only the specified O-ring as it is made of a
special material for the R-134a system. Use only
refrigerant oil of the type recommended for the A/C
compressor in the vehicle.
(14) Connect the suction line to the condenser inlet
port.
(15) Install and tighten the nut that secures the
suction line fitting to the condenser. Tighten the nut
to 20 N´m (180 in. lbs.).
(16) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
(17) Evacuate the refrigerant system (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT SYS-
TEM EVACUATE).(18) Charge the refrigerant system (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT SYS-
TEM CHARGE).
A/C DISCHARGE LINE
DESCRIPTION
The A/C discharge line is the refrigerant line that
goes from the A/C compressor to the A/C condenser.
The A/C discharge line for the 5.9L Diesel engine is
serviced as an assembly with the suction line. The
A/C discharge line has no serviceable parts except
the rubber O-ring seals.
CAUTION: Use only O-ring seals specified for the
vehicle. Failure to use correct O-ring seal will cause
the refrigerant system connection to leak.
The O-ring seals used on the connections are made
from a special type of rubber not affected by R-134a
refrigerant. The O-ring seals must be replaced when-
ever the A/C discharge line is removed and installed.
If the A/C discharge line is found to be leaking or
is damaged, it must be replaced.
REMOVAL
REMOVAL - 5.9L DIESEL ENGINE
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).
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Recover the refrigerant from the refrigerant
system (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITION-
ING/PLUMBING - STANDARD PROCEDURE -
REFRIGERANT RECOVERY).
(3) Disconnect the wire harness connector from the
A/C pressure transducer.
(4) Remove the nut that secures the discharge line
fitting to the condenser inlet port (Fig. 15).
(5) Disconnect the discharge line from the con-
denser.
(6) Remove the O-ring seal from the discharge line
fitting and discard.
(7) Install plugs in, or tape over the discharge line
fitting and condenser inlet port.
(8) Remove the bolt that secures the suction/dis-
charge line assembly to the A/C compressor.
Fig. 14 Condenser/Cooling Fan Assembly
1 - LH MOUNTING BOLT
2 - FRONT UPPER CROSSMEMBER
3 - LOWER MOUNTING FLANGE
4 - UPPER MOUNTING SCREW (2)
5 - LOWER MOUNTING SCREW (2)
6 - MOUNTING TABS
7 - CONDENSER COOLING FAN MOTOR
8 - COOLING FAN WIRE CONNECTOR
9 - RH MOUNTING BOLT
24 - 56 PLUMBINGDR
A/C CONDENSER FAN (Continued)
Page 2544 of 2627

(9) Disconnect the suction/discharge line assembly
from the A/C compressor.
(10) Remove the O-ring seals from the suction and
discharge line fittings and discard.
(11) Install plugs in, or tape over all of the opened
refrigerant line fittings and the compressor ports.
(12) Remove the secondary retaining clip from the
spring-lock coupler that secures the suction line to
the accumulator outlet tube (Fig. 16).
(13) Using the proper A/C line disconnect tool, dis-
connect the suction line from the accumulator outlet
tube fitting (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING/PLUMBING/REFRIGERANT LINE COU-
PLER - REMOVAL).
(14) Remove the O-ring seal from the accumulator
outlet tube fitting and discard.
(15) Install plugs in, or tape over the opened suc-
tion line and the accumulator outlet tube fitting.
(16) Remove the suction/discharge line assembly
from the engine compartment.
(17) If necessary, remove the A/C pressure trans-
ducer from the discharge line.
REMOVAL - 3.7L/4.7L AND 5.7L HEMI ENGINE
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).
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Recover the refrigerant from the refrigerant
system (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITION-
ING/PLUMBING - STANDARD PROCEDURE -
REFRIGERANT RECOVERY).
(3) Disconnect the wire harness connector from the
A/C pressure transducer (Fig. 17) or (Fig. 18),
depending on application.
(4) Remove the nut that secures the discharge line
fitting to the condenser inlet port.
(5) Disconnect the discharge line from the con-
denser.
(6) Remove the O-ring seal from the discharge line
fitting and discard.
Fig. 15 A/C Discharge Line - 5.9L Diesel Engine
1 - CONDENSER
2 - NUT
3 - LIQUID LINE
4 - NUT
5 - PRESSURE TRANSDUCER WIRE CONNECTOR
6 - A/C COMPRESSOR
7 - BOLT
8 - SUCTION/DISCHARGE LINE ASSEMBLY
Fig. 16 A/C Accumulator - Typical
1 - RH INNER FENDER
2 - ACCUMULATOR INLET TUBE
3 - A/C LINE SECONDARY RETAINING CLIP
4 - EVAPORATOR OUTLET TUBE
5 - BOLTS (2)
6 - ACCUMULATOR
7 - SUCTION LINE
8 - A/C LOW PRESSURE SERVICE PORT
9 - A/C LINE SECONDARY RETAINING CLIP
DRPLUMBING 24 - 57
A/C DISCHARGE LINE (Continued)
Page 2548 of 2627

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - A/C ORIFICE TUBE
WARNING: THE LIQUID LINE BETWEEN THE CON-
DENSER OUTLET AND THE A/C ORIFICE TUBE
CAN BECOME HOT ENOUGH TO BURN THE SKIN.
USE EXTREME CAUTION WHEN PERFORMING THE
FOLLOWING TEST.
NOTE: The A/C orifice tube can be checked for
proper operation using the following procedure.
However, the A/C orifice tube is only serviced as a
part of the liquid line. If the results of this test indi-
cate that the A/C orifice tube is obstructed or miss-
ing, the liquid line must be replaced.
(1) Confirm that the refrigerant system is properly
charged. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - A/C PER-
FORMANCE)
(2) Start the engine. Turn on the air conditioning
system and confirm that the compressor clutch is
engaged.
(3) Allow the air conditioning system to operate for
five minutes.
(4) Lightly and cautiously touch the liquid line
near the condenser outlet at the front of the engine
compartment. The liquid line should be hot to the
touch.
(5) Touch the liquid line near the evaporator inlet
at the rear of the engine compartment. The liquid
line should be cold to the touch.
(6) If there is a distinct temperature differential
between the two ends of the liquid line, the A/C ori-
fice tube is in good condition. If there is little or no
detectable temperature differential between the two
ends of the liquid line, the A/C orifice tube is
obstructed or missing and the liquid line must be
replaced.
ACCUMULATOR
DESCRIPTION
The accumulator (Fig. 21) is mounted in the engine
compartment between the evaporator outlet and the
compressor suction port. An integral mounting
bracket is used to secure the accumulator to the dash
panel.
The accumulator cannot be repaired and, if faulty
or damaged, it must be replaced. The rubber O-rings
are available for service replacement.
OPERATION
Refrigerant enters the accumulator canister as a
low pressure vapor through the inlet tube. Any liq-
uid, oil-laden refrigerant falls to the bottom of thecanister, which acts as a separator. A desiccant bag is
mounted inside the accumulator canister to absorb
any moisture which may have entered and become
trapped within the refrigerant system.
REMOVAL
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).
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Recover the refrigerant from the refrigerant
system (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITION-
Fig. 21 Accumulator - Typical
1 - A/C LOW PRESSURE SWITCH (IF EQUIPPED)
2 - PRESSURE SWITCH FITTING
3 - OUTLET TO COMPRESSOR
4 - ANTI-SIPHON HOLE
5 - DESICCANT BAG
6 - OIL RETURN ORIFICE FILTER
7 - VAPOR RETURN TUBE
8 - ACCUMULATOR DOME
9 - O-RING SEAL
10 - INLET FROM EVAPORATOR
DRPLUMBING 24 - 61
A/C ORIFICE TUBE (Continued)
Page 2551 of 2627

HEATER INLET HOSE
REMOVAL
The heater inlet hose is constructed from rubber
hoses and plastic hose connectors. The ends are
secured to the heater core, engine and engine coolant
reservoir (depending on engine application) by spring
tension clamps.
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).
(1) Drain the engine cooling system (Refer to 7 -
COOLING - STANDARD PROCEDURE - COOLING
SYSTEM DRAIN).
(2) Remove the heater hose retaining brackets as
required (depending on engine application).
(3) Using spring tension clamp pliers, compress
and slide the clamps off of each end of the hose being
removed (Fig. 24).
CAUTION: DO NOT apply excessive pressure on
heater tubes or connections when removing heater
hoses. Excessive pressure may damage or deform
the tubes/heater core, causing an engine coolant
leak.
(4) Disconnect each hose end by carefully twisting
the hose back and forth on the tube, while gently
pulling it away from the end of the tube.
(5) If necessary, carefully cut the hose end and
peel the hose off of the tube.
NOTE: Replacement of the heater inlet hose will be
required if the hose ends are cut for removal.
(6) Remove the heater inlet hose from the engine
compartment.
(7) Separate the heater hoses from each other as
required (depending on engine application).
INSTALLATION
(1) If separated, reconnect the heater hoses to each
other as required (depending on engine application).
(2) Position the heater inlet hose into the engine
compartment.
(3) Using spring tension clamp pliers, compress
and slide each clamp away from the end of the hose
being installed.
(4) Install each hose by carefully twisting the hose
back and forth while gently pushing it onto the tube
end.(5) Using spring tension clamp pliers, compress
and slide the clamps onto each end of the hose being
installed.
(6) Install the heater hose retaining brackets as
required (depending on engine application).
(7) Refill the engine cooling system (Refer to 7 -
COOLING - STANDARD PROCEDURE - COOLING
SYSTEM REFILL).
HEATER RETURN HOSE
REMOVAL
The heater return hose is constructed from rubber
hoses and plastic hose connectors. The ends are
secured to the heater core, engine and engine coolant
reservoir (depending on engine application) by spring
tension clamps.
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).
Fig. 24 Heater Hoses - Typical
1 - HEATER CORE TUBES
2 - HEATER INLET HOSE
3 - RETAINING BRACKET
4 - HOSE CONNECTOR
5 - SPRING CLAMP
6 - HEATER RETURN HOSE
24 - 64 PLUMBINGDR
Page 2552 of 2627

(1) Drain the engine cooling system (Refer to 7 -
COOLING - STANDARD PROCEDURE - COOLING
SYSTEM DRAIN).
(2) Remove the heater hose retaining brackets as
required (depending on engine application).
(3) Using spring tension clamp pliers, compress
and slide the clamps off of each end of the hose being
removed (Fig. 25).
CAUTION: DO NOT apply excessive pressure on
heater tubes or connections when removing heater
hoses. Excessive pressure may damage or deform
the tubes/heater core, causing an engine coolant
leak.
(4) Disconnect each hose end by carefully twisting
the hose back and forth on the tube, while gently
pulling it away from the end of the tube.
(5) If necessary, carefully cut the hose end and
peel the hose off of the tube.
NOTE: Replacement of the heater return hose will
be required if the hose ends are cut for removal.
(6) Remove the heater return hose from the engine
compartment.
(7) Separate the heater hoses from each other as
required (depending on engine application).INSTALLATION
(1) If separated, reconnect the heater hoses to each
other as required (depending on engine application).
(2) Position the heater return hose into the engine
compartment.
(3) Using spring tension clamp pliers, compress
and slide each clamp away from the end of the hose
being installed.
(4) Install each hose by carefully twisting the hose
back and forth while gently pushing it onto the tube
end.
(5) Using spring tension clamp pliers, compress
and slide the clamps onto each end of the hose being
installed.
(6) Install the heater hose retaining brackets as
required (depending on engine application).
(7) Refill the engine cooling system (Refer to 7 -
COOLING - STANDARD PROCEDURE).
LIQUID LINE
DESCRIPTION
The liquid line is the refrigerant line that carries
refrigerant from the A/C condenser to the evaporator.
The liquid line for this model consist of two separate
lines that connect to each other. The liquid lines are
made from light-weight aluminum or steel, and use
braze-less fittings.
The front half of the liquid line contains the fixed
orifice tube. The liquid lines are only serviced as an
assembly, except for the rubber O-ring seals used on
the end fittings. The liquid lines cannot be adjusted
or repaired and, if found to be leaking or damaged,
they must be replaced.
REMOVAL
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).
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) If equipped with the diesel engine, remove the
passenger side battery (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
BATTERY SYSTEM/BATTERY - REMOVAL).
(3) If equipped with the diesel engine, remove the
passenger side battery tray (Refer to 8 - ELECTRI-
CAL/BATTERY SYSTEM/TRAY - REMOVAL).
(4) Recover the refrigerant from the refrigerant
system (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITION-
Fig. 25 Heater Hoses - Typical
1 - HEATER CORE TUBES
2 - HEATER INLET HOSE
3 - RETAINING BRACKET
4 - HOSE CONNECTOR
5 - SPRING CLAMP
6 - HEATER RETURN HOSE
DRPLUMBING 24 - 65
HEATER RETURN HOSE (Continued)