oil DODGE RAM 1500 1998 2.G Workshop Manual

NOTE: The air gap is determined by the spacer
shims. When installing an original, or a new clutch
assembly, try the original shims first. When install-
ing a new clutch onto a compressor that previously
did not have a clutch, use a 1.0, 0.50, and 0.13 mil-
limeter (0.040, 0.020, and 0.005 inch) shims from the
new clutch hardware package that is provided with
the new clutch.
(9) To complete the procedure (Refer to 24 - HEAT-
ING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING/A/C COM-
PRESSOR - INSTALLATION).
A/C COMPRESSOR CLUTCH
RELAY
DESCRIPTION
The A/C compressor clutch relay (Fig. 10) is a
International Standards Organization (ISO) micro-re-
lay. Relays conforming to the ISO specifications have
common physical dimensions, current capacities, ter-
minal patterns, and terminal functions. The ISO
micro-relay terminal functions are the same as a con-
ventional ISO relay. However, the ISO micro-relay
terminal pattern (or footprint) is different, the cur-
rent capacity is lower, and the physical dimensions
are smaller than those of the conventional ISO relay.
The A/C compressor clutch relay is located in the
intergrated power module (IPM) in the engine com-
partment. See the fuse and relay layout label affixed
to the inside surface of the IPM cover for A/C com-
pressor clutch relay identification and location.
The black, molded plastic case is the most visible
component of the A/C compressor clutch relay. Fivemale spade-type terminals extend from the bottom of
the base to connect the relay to the vehicle electrical
system, 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.
OPERATION
The A/C compressor clutch relay is an electrome-
chanical switch that uses a low current input from
the powertrain control module (PCM) or engine con-
trol module (ECM) depending on engine application,
to control the high current output to the compressor
clutch electromagnetic coil. The movable common
feed contact point is held against the fixed normally
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
Fig. 9 Check Clutch Air Gap - Typical
1 - FEELER GAUGE
Fig. 10 A/C Compressor Clutch Micro-Relay
30 - COMMON FEED
85 - COIL GROUND
86 - COIL BATTERY
87 - NORMALLY OPEN
87A - NORMALLY CLOSED
DRCONTROLS 24 - 13
A/C COMPRESSOR CLUTCH/COIL (Continued)

spikes and electromagnetic interference that can be
generated as the electromagnetic field of the relay
coil collapses.
The A/C compressor clutch 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 A/C compressor clutch
relay include:
²The common feed terminal (30) receives a bat-
tery current input from a fuse in the IPM through a
fused B(+) circuit at all times.
²The coil ground terminal (86) receives a ground
input from the PCM/ECM through the A/C compres-
sor clutch relay control circuit only when the PCM/
ECM electronically pulls the control circuit to
ground.
²The coil battery terminal (85) receives a battery
current input from PTC 1 in the IPM through a
fused ignition switch output (run) circuit only when
the ignition switch is in the On position.
²The normally open terminal (87) provides a bat-
tery current output to the compressor clutch coil
through the A/C compressor clutch relay output cir-
cuit only when the A/C compressor clutch 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 A/C compres-
sor clutch 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. 11).
(3) Refer to the fuse and relay layout label on the
IPM cover for compressor clutch relay identification
and location.
(4) Remove the A/C compressor clutch relay from
the IPM.
INSTALLATION
(1) See the fuse and relay layout label affixed to
the underside of the IPM cover for A/C compressor
clutch relay location.
(2) Position the A/C compressor clutch relay in the
proper receptacle in the IPM.
(3) Align the A/C compressor clutch relay termi-
nals with the terminal cavities in the IPM receptacle.
(4) Push down firmly on the A/C compressor clutch
relay until the terminals are fully seated in the ter-
minal cavities in the IPM receptacle.
(5) Install the cover onto the IPM.(6) Reconnect the negative battery cable.
A/C HEATER CONTROL
DESCRIPTION
The heater and air conditioning systems use elec-
trical controls. These controls provide the vehicle
operator with a number of setting options to help
control the climate and comfort within the vehicle.
The A/C-heater control for the Single Zone system
(Fig. 12) or Dual Zone system (Fig. 13) is located to
the right of the instrument cluster on the instrument
panel.
The Single Zone control panel contains a rotary-
type temperature control switch, a rotary-type mode
control switch and a rotary-type blower motor speed
switch. The A/C-heater control also has a push but-
ton to activate the optional heated side view mirror
defroster elements and to turn the A/C on.
The Dual Zone control panel contains a pair of slid-
er-type temperature control switches, a rotary-type
mode control switch and a rotary-type blower motor
speed switch. The control also has buttons to activate
the optional heated sideview mirror defroster ele-
ments, turn the A/C on and set the system to Max
A/C.
The A/C-heater control panel cannot be repaired. If
faulty or damaged, the entire unit must be replaced.
Fig. 11 Integrated Power Module (IPM)
1 - BATTERY
2 - INTEGRATED POWER MODULE (IPM)
24 - 14 CONTROLSDR
A/C COMPRESSOR CLUTCH RELAY (Continued)

The A/C pressure transducer cannot be adjusted or
repaired and, if faulty or damaged, it must be
replaced.
OPERATION
The A/C pressure transducer monitors the pres-
sures in the high side of the refrigerant system
through its connection to a fitting on the discharge
line. The transducer will change its internal resis-
tance in response to the pressures it monitors. The
Powertrain Control Module (PCM) or the Engine
Control Module (ECM) depending on engine applica-
tion, provides a five volt reference signal and a sen-
sor ground to the transducer, then monitors the
output voltage of the transducer on a sensor return
circuit to determine refrigerant pressure. The PCM/
ECM is programmed to respond to this and other
sensor inputs by controlling the operation of the air
conditioning compressor clutch and the radiator cool-
ing fan to help optimize air conditioning system per-
formance and to protect the system components from
damage. The A/C pressure transducer input to the
PCM/ECM will also prevent the air conditioning com-
pressor clutch from engaging when ambient temper-
atures are below about 10É C (50É F) due to the
pressure/temperature relationship of the refrigerant.
The Schrader-type valve in the discharge line fitting
permits the A/C pressure transducer to be removed
or installed without disturbing the refrigerant in the
system. The A/C pressure transducer is diagnosed
using a DRBIIItscan tool. Refer to the appropriate
diagnostic information.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - A/C PRESSURE
TRANSDUCER
The A/C pressure transducer is tested using a
DRBIIItscan tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnos-
tic information. Before testing the A/C pressure
transducer, be certain that the transducer wire har-
ness connection is clean of corrosion and properly
connected. For the air conditioning system to operate,
an A/C pressure transducer voltage reading between
0.451 and 4.519 volts is required. Voltages outside
this range indicate a low or high refrigerant system
pressure condition to the Powertrain Control Module
(PCM) or Engine Control Module (ECM) depending
on engine application. The PCM/ECM is programmed
to respond to a low or high refrigerant system pres-
sure by suppressing operation of the compressor.
Refer to the A/C Pressure Transducer Voltage chart
for the possible conditions indicated by the trans-
ducer voltage reading.
A/C PRESSURE TRANSDUCER VOLTAGE
CHART
Voltage Possible Indication
0.0 1. No sensor supply voltage from
PCM/ECM.
2. Shorted sensor circuit.
3. Faulty transducer.
0.150 TO 0.450 1. Ambient temperature below
10É C (50É F).
2. Low refrigerant system
pressure.
0.451 TO 4.519 1. Normal refrigerant system
pressure.
4.520 TO 4.850 1. High refrigerant system
pressure.
5.0 1. Open sensor circuit.
2. Faulty transducer.
REMOVAL
NOTE: Note: It is not necessary to discharge the
refrigerant system to replace the A/C pressure
transducer.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Disconnect the wire harness connector from the
A/C pressure transducer.
(3) Remove the A/C pressure transducer from the
fitting on the discharge line (Fig. 15).
(4) Remove the O-ring seal from the A/C pressure
transducer fitting and discard.
INSTALLATION
NOTE: Replace the O-ring seal before installing the
A/C pressure transducer.
(1) Lubricate a new rubber O-ring seal with clean
refrigerant oil and install it on the A/C pressure
transducer fitting. Use only the specified O-rings as
they are made of a special material for the R-134a
system. Use only refrigerant oil of the type recom-
mended for the A/C compressor in the vehicle.
(2) Install and tighten the A/C pressure transducer
onto the discharge line fitting. The transducer should
be hand-tightened securely onto the discharge line
fitting.
(3) Connect the wire harness connector to the A/C
pressure transducer.
24 - 16 CONTROLSDR
A/C PRESSURE TRANSDUCER (Continued)

EVAPORATOR TEMPERATURE
SENSOR
DESCRIPTION
The evaporator temperature sensor is a two-wire
temperature sensing element located at the coldest
point on the face of the evaporator. The sensor is
attached to the evaporator coil fins. The evaporator
temperature sensor prevents condensation on the
evaporator coil from freezing and obstructing A/C
system air flow. The evaporator temperature sensor
cannot be adjusted or repaired and, if faulty or dam-
aged, it must be replaced.
OPERATION
The evaporator temperature sensor monitors the
temperature of the evaporator. The sensor will
change its internal resistance in response to the tem-
peratures it monitors. The A/C-heater control module
is connected to the sensor through a sensor ground
circuit and a sensor signal circuit. As the evaporator
temperature increases, the resistance of the sensor
decreases and the voltage monitored by the module
decreases. The module uses this monitored voltage
reading to an indication of the evaporator tempera-
ture. The A/C-heater control module is programmed
to respond to this input by cycling the air condition-
ing compressor clutch as necessary to optimize air
conditioning system performance and to protect the
system from evaporator freezing. The external loca-
tion of the sensor allows the sensor to be removed or
installed without disturbing the refrigerant in the
system. The evaporator temperature sensor is diag-
nosed using a DRBIIItscan tool. Refer to Body Diag-
nostic Procedures.
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Remove the HVAC housing from the vehicle
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
DISTRIBUTION/HVAC HOUSING - REMOVAL).
(3) Disconnect the HVAC wire harness connector
from the evaporator temperature sensor (Fig. 20).
(4) Disassemble the HVAC housing to gain access
to the evaporator coil (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR
CONDITIONING/DISTRIBUTION/HVAC HOUSING
- DISASSEMBLY).
(5) Remove the evaporator temperature sensor
probe from the evaporator coil (Fig. 21).
INSTALLATION
(1) Install the evaporator temperature sensor
probe into the evaporator coil.
Fig. 20 Evaporator Temperature Sensor Wire
Connector
1 - HVAC HOUSING
2 - EVAPORATOR TEMPERATURE SENSOR
3 - HVAC WIRE HARNESS
Fig. 21 Evaporator Temperature Sensor Probe
1 - EVAPORATOR COIL
2 - EVAPORATOR TEMPERATURE SENSOR PROBE
3 - BLEND DOOR
4 - HVAC HOUSING
24 - 22 CONTROLSDR

INSTALLATION
(1) Install the floor distribution duct onto the bot-
tom of the HVAC housing.
(2) Install the five screws that secure the floor dis-
tribution duct to the HVAC housing. Tighten the
screws to 2.2 N´m (20 in. lbs.).
(3) Install the HVAC housing (Refer to 24 - HEAT-
ING & AIR CONDITIONING/DISTRIBUTION/HVAC
HOUSING - INSTALLATION).
HVAC HOUSING
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 AN ACCIDENTAL
AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL
INJURY.
NOTE: The HVAC housing must be removed from
the vehicle and the two halves of the housing sep-
arated for service access of the heater core, evap-
orator coil, defrost door, blend door(s) and the
recirculation door.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Drain the engine cooling system (Refer to 7 -
COOLING - STANDARD PROCEDURE).
(3) Recover the refrigerant from the refrigerant
system (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITION-
ING/PLUMBING - STANDARD PROCEDURE -
REFRIGERANT RECOVERY).
(4) Disconnect the liquid refrigerant line fitting
from the evaporator inlet tube (Refer to 24 - HEAT-
ING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING/REFRIG-
ERANT LINE COUPLER - REMOVAL). Discard the
O-ring seal and install plugs in, or tape over the
opened liquid refrigerant line fitting and evaporator
inlet tube.
(5) Remove the accumulator (Refer to 24 - HEAT-
ING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING/ACCU-
MULATOR - REMOVAL). Discard the O-ring seals
and install plugs in, or tape over the opened refrig-
erant line fittings and evaporator outlet tube.(6) Disconnect the heater hoses from the heater
core tubes. Install plugs in, or tape over the opened
heater core tubes.
(7) Remove the powertrain control module (PCM)
from the engine compartment to gain access to the
HVAC housing retaining nuts (Refer to 8 - ELECTRI-
CAL/ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES/POWER-
TRAIN CONTROL MODULE - REMOVAL).
(8) Remove the two nuts from the HVAC housing
mounting studs in the engine compartment.
(9) Remove the instrument panel from the vehicle
(Refer to 23 - BODY/INSTRUMENT PANEL -
REMOVAL).
(10) Remove the bolt that secures the HVAC hous-
ing to the floor bracket located in the center of the
vehicle (Fig. 9).
(11) Remove the two nuts from the HVAC housing
mounting studs in the passenger compartment.
(12) Remove the HVAC housing from inside the
vehicle. Take care not to allow any remaining coolant
to drain onto the vehicles interior.
Fig. 9 HVAC Housing - Dual Zone Shown, Single
Zone Typical
1 - NUT
2 - PASSENGER BLEND DOOR ACTUATOR
3 - NUT
4 - INLET BAFFLE
5 - RECIRCULATION DOOR ACTUATOR
6 - RECIRCULATION DOOR
7 - DRIVER SIDE BLEND DOOR ACTUATOR
8 - HVAC HOUSING
9 - BOLT
10 - DEFROSTER DOOR ACTUATOR
11 - MODE DOOR ACTUATOR
24 - 34 DISTRIBUTIONDR
FLOOR DISTRIBUTION DUCT (Continued)

DISASSEMBLY
(1) Remove the HVAC housing from the vehicle
and place it on the workbench (Refer to 24 - HEAT-
ING & AIR CONDITIONING/DISTRIBUTION/HVAC
HOUSING - REMOVAL).
(2) Disconnect the electrical connectors from the
blower motor, blower motor resistor block, evaporator
temperature sensor and each actuator (Fig. 10).
(3) Remove the HVAC wiring harness from the
HVAC housing.
(4) If necessary, remove the blower motor from
the HVAC housing (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR
CONDITIONING/DISTRIBUTION/BLOWER
MOTOR - REMOVAL).
(5) If necessary, remove the blower motor resistor
block from the HVAC housing (Refer to 24 - HEAT-
ING & AIR CONDITIONING/CONTROLS/BLOWER
MOTOR RESISTOR BLOCK - REMOVAL).
(6) Carefully remove the foam seals from the
heater core and evaporator coil tube mounting flange
of the HVAC housing. If the either seal is deformed
or damaged, it must be replaced.
(7) Remove the screws that secure the heater core
in the HVAC housing and carefully remove the
heater core from the housing (Refer to 24 - HEAT-
ING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING/HEATER
CORE - REMOVAL).(8) Use a screwdriver to pry off the four snap clips
that help secure the upper and lower HVAC housing
halves together.
(9) Remove the screws that secure the upper and
lower HVAC housing halves to each other and those
that secure the recirculation housing to the upper
HVAC housing.
(10) Carefully separate the recirculation housing
and the upper HVAC housing from the lower hous-
ing.
ASSEMBLY
(1) Position the upper HVAC housing to the lower
housing. During assembly, be certain of the following:
(a) That each of the door pivot shaft ends are
properly engaged in there pivot holes.
(b) That the evaporator drain opening is clean
and the drain foam seal is properly installed.
(2) Install the screws and snap clips that secure
the upper and lower HVAC housing halves to each
other and those that secure the recirculation housing
to the upper HVAC housing. Tighten the screws to
2.2 N´m (20 in. lbs.).
(3) Install the foam seals on the heater core and
evaporator coil tubes.
(4) If removed, install the blower motor resistor
block (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITION-
Fig. 10 HVAC Housing - Disassembled
1 - RECIRCULATION HOUSING
2 - RECIRC DOOR ACTUATOR
3 - DRIVER SIDE BLEND DOOR ACTUATOR
4 - FLOOR DISTRIBUTION DUCT
5 - DEFROST DOOR ACTUATOR
6 - PANEL DOOR ACTUATOR
7 - UPPER HVAC HOUSING
8 - PASSENGER SIDE BLEND DOOR ACTUATOR9 - HEATER CORE
10 - LOWER HVAC HOUSING
11 - HVAC WIRE HARNESS
12 - DRAIN FOAM SEAL
13 - BLOWER MOTOR
14 - EVAPORATOR FOAM SEAL
15 - EVAPORATOR
16 - HEATER CORE FOAM SEAL
DRDISTRIBUTION 24 - 35
HVAC HOUSING (Continued)

REFRIGERANT OIL
DESCRIPTION.........................68
OPERATION...........................69
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT
OIL LEVEL...........................69
SERVICE PORT VALVE CORE
DESCRIPTION.........................70
REMOVAL - SERVICE PORT VALVE CORES . . 70
INSTALLATION.........................70
SUCTION LINE
DESCRIPTION.........................70REMOVAL
REMOVAL - 5.9L DIESEL ENGINE.........70
REMOVAL - 3.7L/4.7L AND 5.7L HEMI
ENGINE.............................71
INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION - 5.9L DIESEL ENGINE.....72
INSTALLATION - 3.7L/4.7L AND 5.7L HEMI
ENGINE.............................73
PLUMBING
DESCRIPTION - REFRIGERANT LINE
The refrigerant lines and hoses are used to carry
the refrigerant between the various air conditioning
system components. A barrier hose design with a
nylon tube, which is sandwiched between rubber lay-
ers, is used for the R-134a air conditioning system on
this vehicle. This nylon tube helps to further contain
the R-134a refrigerant, which has a smaller molecu-
lar structure than R-12 refrigerant. The ends of the
refrigerant hoses are made from lightweight alumi-
num or steel, and commonly use braze-less fittings.
Any kinks or sharp bends in the refrigerant plumb-
ing will reduce the capacity of the entire air condi-
tioning system. Kinks and sharp bends reduce the
flow of refrigerant in the system. A good rule for the
flexible hose refrigerant lines is to keep the radius of
all bends at least ten times the diameter of the hose.
In addition, the flexible hose refrigerant lines should
be routed so they are at least 80 millimeters (3
inches) from an exhaust manifold.
OPERATION- REFRIGERANT LINES
High pressures are produced in the refrigerant sys-
tem when the air conditioning compressor is operat-
ing. 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 with
other components of the HVAC system with either
O-rings or dual plane seals.
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.
24 - 42 PLUMBINGDR

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-134arefrigerant 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.
DRPLUMBING 24 - 43
PLUMBING (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 COM-
BUSTIBLE 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 SER-
VICE.
NOTE: The refrigerant system does come from the
factory with a yellow tracer dye already installed to
aid in detection of leaks.
If the A/C system is not cooling properly, determine
if the refrigerant system is fully charged with
R-134a. This is accomplished by performing a system
Charge Level-Check or Fill. If while performing this
test A/C liquid line pressure is less than 345 kPa (50
psi) proceed to System Empty procedure. If liquid
line pressure 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 pro-
cedures as indicated by the symptoms.
SYSTEM EMPTY
(1) Evacuate the refrigerant system to the lowest
degree of vacuum possible (approx. 28 in Hg.). Deter-
mine if the system holds a vacuum for 15 minutes. If
vacuum is held, a leak is probably not present. If sys-
tem 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.
(4) Proceed to Step 2 of System Low procedure.
SYSTEM LOW
(1) Determine if there is any (R-134a) refrigerant
in the system.
(2) Position the vehicle in a wind free work area.
This will aid in detecting small leaks.
(3) 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:
²Transmission in Park or Neutral with parking
brake set
²Engine idling at 700 rpm
²A/C controls set in 100 percent outside air
²Blower switch in the high A/C position
²A/C in the ON position
²Open all windows
CAUTION: A leak detector designed for R-12 refrig-
erant (only) will not detect leaks in a R-134a refrig-
erant system.
(4) 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.
24 - 44 PLUMBINGDR
PLUMBING (Continued)

STANDARD PROCEDURE
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 willabsorb moisture readily out of the air. This moisture
will convert into acids within a closed system.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - DIODE
REPLACEMENT
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. If the vehicle has dual batteries, remove the
negative cable from both batteries.
(2) Locate the diode in the harness, and remove
the protective covering.
(3) Remove the diode from the harness. Note the
direction of current flow (Fig. 1).
(4) Remove the insulation from the wires in the
harness. Only remove enough insulation to solder in
the new diode.
(5) Install the new diode in the harness, making
sure current flow is correct. If necessary refer to the
appropriate wiring diagram for current flow.
(6) Solder the connections together using rosin
core type solder only.Do not use acid core solder.
(7) Tape the diode to the harness using electrical
tape. Make sure the diode is completely sealed from
the elements.
(8) Reconnect the battery negative cable(s) and
test the affected systems.
Fig. 1 Diode Identification
1 - CURRENT FLOW
2 - BAND INDICATES CURRENT FLOW
3 - DIODE AS SHOWN IN WIRING DIAGRAMS
DRPLUMBING 24 - 45
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