Temperature DODGE RAM 2001 Service Repair Manual

heated air. This air conditioning system uses a fixed ori-
fice tube in the middle of the liquid line to meter refrig-
erant flow to the evaporator coil. To maintain minimum
evaporator temperature and prevent evaporator freez-
ing, the a/c low pressure switch on the accumulator
cycles the compressor clutch.
OPERATION - REFRIGERANT SYSTEM SERVICE
PORT
The high pressure service port is located on the liq-
uid line between the condenser and the evaporator,
near the front of the engine compartment. The low
pressure service port is located on the suction line,
near the accumulator outlet.
Each of the service ports has a threaded plastic
protective cap installed over it from the factory. After
servicing the refrigerant system, always reinstall
both of the service port caps.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - A/C
PERFORMANCE
The air conditioning system is designed to provide
the passenger compartment with low temperature
and low humidity air. The evaporator, located in the
HVAC housing on the dash panel below the instru-
ment panel, is cooled to temperatures near the freez-
ing point. As warm damp air passes through the
cooled evaporator, the air transfers its heat to the
refrigerant in the evaporator tubes and the moisture
in the air condenses on the evaporator fins. During
periods of high heat and humidity, an air condition-
ing system will be more effective in the recirculation
mode (Max-A/C). With the system in the recirculation
mode, only air from the passenger compartment
passes through the evaporator. As the passenger com-
partment air dehumidifies, the air conditioning sys-
tem performance levels improve.
Humidity has an important bearing on the temper-
ature of the air delivered to the interior of the vehi-
cle. It is important to understand the effect that
humidity has on the performance of the air condition-
ing system. When humidity is high, the evaporator
has to perform a double duty. It must lower the air
temperature, and it must lower the temperature of
the moisture in the air that condenses on the evapo-
rator fins. Condensing the moisture in the air trans-
fers heat energy into the evaporator fins and tubing.
This reduces the amount of heat the evaporator can
absorb from the air. High humidity greatly reduces
the ability of the evaporator to lower the temperature
of the air.
However, evaporator capacity used to reduce the
amount of moisture in the air is not wasted. Wring-
ing some of the moisture out of the air entering the
vehicle adds to the comfort of the passengers.
Although, an owner may expect too much from theirair conditioning system on humid days. A perfor-
mance test is the best way to determine whether the
system is performing up to standard. This test also
provides valuable clues as to the possible cause of
trouble with the air conditioning system.
Before proceeding, (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR
CONDITIONING/PLUMBING - WARNING) and
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - CAUTION). The air temperature in
the test room and in the vehicle must be a minimum
of 21É C (70É F) for this test.
(1)
Connect a tachometer and a manifold gauge set.
(2) Set the a/c heater mode control switch knob to
the recirculation mode (Max-A/C) position, the tem-
perature control knob to the full cool position, and
the blower motor switch to the highest speed posi-
tion.
(3) Start the engine and hold the idle speed at
1,000 rpm with the compressor clutch engaged. If the
compressor clutch does not engage, (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/CONTROLS/A/C
COMPRESSOR CLUTCH COIL - DIAGNOSIS AND
TESTING).
(4) The engine should be at operating temperature.
The doors and windows must be closed and the hood
must be mostly closed.
(5)
Insert a thermometer in the driver side center
A/C (panel) outlet. Operate the engine for five minutes.
(6) The compressor clutch may cycle, depending
upon the ambient temperature and humidity. If the
clutch cycles, unplug the a/c low pressure switch wire
harness connector from the switch located on the
accumulator (Fig. 2). Place a jumper wire between
the two cavities of the a/c low pressure switch wire
harness connector.
Fig. 2 A/C LOW PRESSURE SWITCH
1 - A/C LOW PRESSURE SWITCH
2 - ACCUMULATOR
24 - 2 HEATING & AIR CONDITIONINGBR/BE
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING (Continued)

(7)With the compressor clutch engaged, record the
panel outlet discharge air temperature, the discharge
pressure (high side), and the suction pressure (low side).
(8) Compare the panel outlet discharge air temper-
ature reading to the Performance Temperature and
Pressure chart. If the temperature reading is high,
clamp off both heater hoses (inlet and outlet), wait
five minutes and record the temperature again. Com-
pare the second reading to the Performance Temper-ature and Pressure chart. If the temperature reading
is now OK, see Temperature Control Cable in the
Removal and Installation section and in the Adjust-
ments section of this group. If the temperature read-
ing is still too high, (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR
CONDITIONING/PLUMBING - DIAGNOSIS AND
TESTING), and (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR
CONDITIONING/PLUMBING - STANDARD PRO-
CEDURE) in this group.
Performance Temperature and Pressure
Ambient Temperature21É C
(70É F)27É C
(80É F)32É C
(90É F)38É C
(100É F)43É C
(110É F)49É C
(120É F)
Center Panel OutletDischarge
Air Temperature5to7ÉC
(40 to 45É
F)13 to 16É
C
(55 to 60É
F)16 to 21É
C
(60 to 70É
F)21 to 24É
C
(70 to 75É
F)27 to 29É
C
(80 to 85É
F)29 to 32É C
(85 to 90É
F)
*Suction Pressure (Low Side)241 to 276
kPa
(35 to 40
psi)276 to 345
kPa
(40 to 50
psi)345 to 414
kPa
(50 to 60
psi)414 to 483
kPa
(60 to 70
psi)483 to 552
kPa
(70 to 80
psi)552 to 586
kPa
(85 to 90
psi)
*Discharge Pressure (High
Side)931 to
1000 kPa
(135 to
145 psi)1207 to
1482 kPa
(175 to
215 psi)1482 to
1862 kPa
(215 to
270 psi)1862 to
2275 kPa
(270 to
330 psi)2344 to
2551 kPa
(340 to
370 psi)2758 to
2965 kPa
(400 to 430
psi)
*Note: If pressures are lower than shown, but center panel outlet discharge air temperatures are OK, then the A/C
system is OK.
(9) Compare the discharge (high side) and suction
(low side) pressure readings to the Performance Tem-perature and Pressure chart. If the pressures are
abnormal, see the A/C Diagnosis chart.
A/C Diagnosis
Condition Possible Causes Correction
RAPID COMPRESSOR
CLUTCH CYCLING (TEN
OR MORE CYCLES PER
MINUTE).1. Low refrigerant system
charge.1. (Refer to Plumbing/Diagnosis and Testing - Refrigerant
System Leaks) in this group. Test the refrigerant system
for leaks. Repair, evacuate and charge the refrigerant
system, if required.
2. Faulty a/c low
pressure switch.2. (Refer to Controls/A/C Low Pressure Switch/Diagnosis
and Testing) in this group. Test the a/c low pressure
switch and replace, if required.
3. Faulty Powertrain
Control Module (PCM).3. (Refer to Appropriate Diagnostic Information) for testing
the PCM. Test the PCM and replace, if required.
EQUAL PRESSURES,
BUT THE
COMPRESSOR CLUTCH
DOES NOT ENGAGE.1. No refrigerant in the
refrigerant system.1. (Refer to Plumbing/Diagnosis and Testing - Refrigerant
System Leaks) in this group. Test the refrigerant system
for leaks. Repair, evacuate and charge the refrigerant
system, if required.
2. Faulty fuse. 2. Check the fuses in the Power Distribution Center and
the junction block. Repair the shorted circuit or
component and replace the fuses, if required.
BR/BEHEATING & AIR CONDITIONING 24 - 3
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING (Continued)

A/C Diagnosis
Condition Possible Causes Correction
3. Faulty a/c compressor
clutch coil.3. (Refer to Controls/A/C Compressor Clutch Coil/
Diagnosis and Testing) in this group. Test the compressor
clutch coil and replace, if required.
4. Faulty a/c compressor
clutch relay.4. (Refer to Controls/A/C Compressor Clutch Relay/
Diagnosis and Testing) in this group. Test the compressor
clutch relay and relay circuits. Repair the circuits or
replace the relay, if required.
5. Improperly installed or
faulty a/c low pressure
switch.5. (Refer to Controls/A/C Low Pressure Switch/Diagnosis
and Testing) in this group. Test the a/c low pressure
switch and tighten or replace, if required.
6. Faulty a/c high
pressure switch.6. (Refer to Controls/A/C High Pressure Switch/Diagnosis
and Testing) in this group. Test the a/c high pressure
switch and replace, if required.
7. Faulty Powertrain
Control Module (PCM).7. (Refer to Appropriate Diagnostic Information) for testing
the PCM. Test the PCM and replace, if required.
8. Faulty a/c heater
control.8. (Refer to Controls/A/C Heater Control/Diagnosis and
Testing) in this group. Test the a/c heater control and
replace, if required.
NORMAL PRESSURES,
BUT A/C
PERFORMANCE TEST
AIR TEMPERATURES AT
CENTER PANEL
OUTLET ARE TOO
HIGH.1. Excessive refrigerant
oil in system.1. (Refer to Plumbing/Refrigerant Oil/Standard Procedure
- Refrigerant Oil Level) in this group. Recover the
refrigerant from the refrigerant system and inspect the
refrigerant oil content. Restore the refrigerant oil to the
proper level, if required.
2. Blend door actuator
inoperative or faulty.2. Check the Blend Door Actuator operation. Replace as
required.
3. Blend door
inoperative, obstructed or
sealing improperly.3. (Refer to Distribution/Blend Door/Removal/Installation)
in this group. Inspect the blend door for proper operation
and sealing and correct, if required.
LOW SIDE PRESSURE
IS NORMAL OR
SLIGHTLY LOW, AND
HIGH SIDE PRESSURE
IS TOO LOW.1. Low refrigerant system
charge.1. (Refer to Plumbing/Diagnosis and Testing - Refrigerant
System Leaks) in this group. Test the refrigerant system
for leaks. Repair, evacuate and charge the refrigerant
system, if required.
2. Refrigerant flow
through the accumulator
is restricted.2. (Refer to Plumbing/Accumulator/ Removal/Installation)
in this group. Replace the restricted accumulator, if
required.
3. Refrigerant flow
through the a/c
evaporator is restricted.3. (Refer to Plumbing/A/C Evaporator/ Removal/
Installation) in this group. Replace the restricted
evaporator, if required.
4. Faulty compressor. 4. (Refer to Plumbing/A/C Compressor/ Removal/
Installation) in this group. Replace the compressor, if
required.
24 - 4 HEATING & AIR CONDITIONINGBR/BE
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING (Continued)

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - HEATER
PERFORMANCE
Before performing the following tests, refer to Cool-
ing for the procedures to check the engine coolant
level and flow, engine coolant reserve/recovery sys-
tem operation, accessory drive belt condition and ten-
sion, radiator air flow and the fan drive operation.
Also be certain that the accessory vacuum supply
line is connected at the engine vacuum source.
MAXIMUM HEATER OUTPUT
Engine coolant is delivered to the heater core
through two heater hoses. With the engine idling atnormal operating temperature, set the temperature
control knob in the full hot position, the mode control
switch knob in the floor position, and the blower
motor switch knob in the highest speed position.
Using a test thermometer, check the temperature of
the air being discharged at the HVAC housing floor
outlets. Compare the test thermometer reading to the
Temperature Reference chart.
Temperature Reference
Ambient Air Temperature15.5É C
(60É F)21.1É C
(70É F)26.6É C
(80É F)32.2É C
(90É F)
Minimum Air Temperature at
Floor Outlet62.2É C
(144É F)63.8É C
(147É F)65.5É C
(150É F)67.2É C
(153É F)
If the floor outlet air temperature is too low, refer
to Cooling to check the engine coolant temperature
specifications. Both of the heater hoses should be hot
to the touch. The coolant return heater hose should
be slightly cooler than the coolant supply heater
hose. If the return hose is much cooler than the sup-
ply hose, locate and repair the engine coolant flow
obstruction in the cooling system. Refer to Cooling
for the procedures.
An alternate method of checking heater perfor-
mance is to use a DRBIIItscan tool to monitor the
engine coolant temperature. The floor outlet air tem-
perature reading should be no more than 4.5É C (40É
F) lower than the engine coolant temperature read-
ing.
OBSTRUCTED COOLANT FLOW Possible loca-
tions or causes of obstructed coolant flow:
²Faulty water pump.
²Faulty thermostat.
²Pinched or kinked heater hoses.
²Improper heater hose routing.
²Plugged heater hoses or supply and return ports
at the cooling system connections.
²A plugged heater core.If proper coolant flow through the cooling system is
verified, and heater outlet air temperature is still
low, a mechanical problem may exist.
MECHANICAL PROBLEMS Possible locations or
causes of insufficient heat:
²An obstructed cowl air intake.
²Obstructed heater system outlets.
²A faulty, obstructed or improperly installed
blend door.
²A faulty blower system.
²A faulty a/c heater control.
TEMPERATURE CONTROL
If the heater outlet air temperature cannot be
adjusted with the temperature control knob on the
a/c heater control panel, the following could require
service:
²A faulty a/c heater control.
²A faulty blend door actuator.
²A faulty, obstructed or improperly installed
blend door.
²An obstructed cowl air intake.
²The engine cooling system.
24 - 6 HEATING & AIR CONDITIONINGBR/BE
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING (Continued)

Heater Diagnosis
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSE CORRECTION
INSUFFICIENT HEATER
OUTPUT.1. Incorrect engine
coolant level.1. Check the engine coolant level. Refer to Cooling for
the procedures.
2. Air trapped in engine
cooling system.2. Check the operation of the coolant reserve/recovery
system. Refer to Cooling for the procedures.
3. Incorrect engine
coolant temperature.3. Check the performance and operation of the engine
cooling system including: thermostat, water pump, fan
drive, accessory drive belt, coolant flow (plugged radiator
or heater core, plugged or kinked coolant hoses), air flow
(missing or improperly installed radiator air seals or fan
shroud). Refer to Cooling for the procedures.
4. Blend door actuator
inoperative or defective.4. (Refer to Controls/Blend Door Actuator) in this group.
5. Blend door not
operating properly.5. Check for a damaged, obstructed or improperly
installed blend door or seals. (Refer to Controls/Blend
Door Actuator) in this group.
6. Insufficient air flow
through heater housing.6. Remove foreign material or obstructions from cowl air
intake.
7. Improper blower motor
operation.7. (Refer to Distribution/Blower Motor/ Diagnosis and
Testing) in this group.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - DIODE
REPLACEMENT
(1) Disconnect the battery.
(2) Locate the diode in the harness, and remove
the protective covering.
(3) Remove the diode from the harness, pay atten-
tion to the current flow direction (Fig. 3).(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 connection together using rosin core
type solder only.Do not use acid core solder.
(7) Tape the diode to the harness using electrical
tape making, sure the diode is completely sealed
from the elements.
(8) Re-connect the battery, and test affected sys-
tems.
Fig. 3 DIODE IDENTIFICATION
1 - CURRENT FLOW
2 - BAND AROUND DIODE INDICATES CURRENT FLOW
3 - DIODE AS SHOWN IN THE DIAGRAMS
BR/BEHEATING & AIR CONDITIONING 24 - 7
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING (Continued)

A/C COMPRESSOR CLUTCH
DESCRIPTION
The compressor clutch assembly consists of a sta-
tionary electromagnetic coil, a hub bearing and pul-
ley assembly, and a clutch plate (Fig. 4). The
electromagnetic coil unit and the hub bearing and
pulley assembly are each retained on the nose of the
compressor front housing with snap rings. The clutch
plate is mounted to the compressor shaft and secured
with a nut.
OPERATION
The compressor clutch assembly provides the
means to engage and disengage the compressor from
the engine serpentine accessory drive belt. When the
clutch coil is energized, it magnetically draws the
clutch into contact with the pulley and drives the
compressor shaft. When the coil is not energized, the
pulley freewheels on the clutch hub bearing, which is
part of the pulley. The compressor clutch and coil are
the only serviced parts on the compressor.
The compressor clutch engagement is controlled by
several components: the a/c heater mode control
switch, the a/c low pressure switch, the a/c high pres-
sure switch, the compressor clutch relay, and the
Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The PCM may
delay compressor clutch engagement for up to thirty
seconds. Refer to Electronic Control Modules for
more information on the PCM controls.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - A/C COMPRESSOR
CLUTCH COIL
For circuit descriptions and diagrams, (Refer to
Appropriate Wiring Information). The battery must
be fully-charged before performing the following
tests. Refer to Battery for more information.
(1) Connect an ammeter (0 to 10 ampere scale) in
series with the clutch coil terminal. Use a voltmeter
(0 to 20 volt scale) with clip-type leads for measuring
the voltage across the battery and the compressor
clutch coil.
(2) With the a/c heater mode control switch in any
A/C mode, and the blower motor switch in the lowest
speed position, start the engine and run it at normal
idle.
(3) The compressor clutch coil voltage should read
within 0.2 volts of the battery voltage. If there is
voltage at the clutch coil, but the reading is not
within 0.2 volts of the battery voltage, test the clutch
coil feed circuit for excessive voltage drop and repair
as required. If there is no voltage reading at the
clutch coil, use a DRB IIItscan tool and (Refer to
Appropriate Diagnostic Information) for testing of the
compressor clutch circuit. The following components
must be checked and repaired as required before you
can complete testing of the clutch coil:
²Fuses in the junction block and the Power Dis-
tribution Center (PDC)
²A/C Heater mode control switch
²Compressor clutch relay
²A/C High Pressure Switch
²A/C Low Pressure Switch
²Powertrain Control Module (PCM).
(4) The compressor clutch coil is acceptable if the
current draw measured at the clutch coil is 2.0 to 3.9
amperes with the electrical system voltage at 11.5 to
12.5 volts. This should only be checked with the work
area temperature at 21É C (70É F). If system voltage
is more than 12.5 volts, add electrical loads by turn-
ing on electrical accessories until the system voltage
drops below 12.5 volts.
(a) If the clutch coil current reading is four
amperes or more, the coil is shorted and should be
replaced.
(b) If the clutch coil current reading is zero, the
coil is open and should be replaced.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - A/C COMPRESSOR
CLUTCH BREAK-IN
After a new compressor clutch has been installed,
cycle the compressor clutch approximately twenty
times (five seconds on, then five seconds off). During
this procedure, set the A/C Heater control to the
Recirculation Mode, the blower motor switch in the
highest speed position, and the engine speed at 1500
to 2000 rpm. This procedure (burnishing) will seat
Fig. 4 COMPRESSOR CLUTCH - TYPICAL
1 - CLUTCH PLATE
2 - SHAFT KEY
3 - PULLEY
4 - COIL
5 - CLUTCH SHIMS
6 - SNAP RING
7 - SNAP RING
BR/BECONTROLS 24 - 13

(1) The relay common feed terminal cavity (30) is
connected to fused battery feed. There should be bat-
tery voltage at the cavity for relay terminal 30 at all
times. If OK, go to Step 2. If not OK, repair the open
circuit to the fuse in the PDC as required.
(2) The relay normally closed terminal (87A) is not
used in this application. Go to Step 3.
(3) The relay normally open terminal cavity (87) is
connected to the compressor clutch coil. There should
be continuity between this cavity and the A/C com-
pressor clutch relay output circuit cavity of the com-
pressor clutch coil wire harness connector. If OK, go
to Step 4. If not OK, repair the open circuit as
required.
(4) The relay coil battery terminal (86) is con-
nected to the fused ignition switch output (run/start)
circuit. There should be battery voltage at the cavity
for relay terminal 86 with the ignition switch in the
On position. If OK, go to Step 5. If not OK, repair the
open circuit to the fuse in the junction block as
required.
(5) The coil ground terminal cavity (85) is switched
to ground through the Powertrain Control Module
(PCM). There should be continuity between this cav-
ity and the A/C compressor clutch relay control cir-
cuit cavity of the PCM wire harness connector C
(gray) at all times. If not OK, repair the open circuit
as required.
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Remove the cover from the Power Distribution
Center (PDC) (Fig. 17).(3) Refer to the label on the PDC for compressor
clutch relay identification and location.
(4) Unplug the compressor clutch relay from the
PDC.
INSTALLATION
(1) Install the compressor clutch relay by aligning
the relay terminals with the cavities in the PDC and
pushing the relay firmly into place.
(2) Install the PDC cover.
(3) Connect the battery negative cable.
(4) Test the relay operation.
A/C HEATER CONTROL
DESCRIPTION
Both the heater-only and a/c heater systems use a
combination of electrical and vacuum controls. These
controls provide the vehicle operator with a number
of setting options to help control the climate and
comfort within the vehicle. Refer to the owner's man-
ual in the vehicle glove box for more information on
the features, use, and suggested operation of these
controls.
OPERATION
The heater-only or a/c heater control panel is
located to the right of the instrument cluster on the
instrument panel. The control panel contains a rota-
ry-type temperature control knob, a rotary-type mode
control switch knob, and a rotary-type blower motor
speed switch knob. On models with the optional
heated mirror system, a momentary push button
switch and indicator lamp are located near the bot-
Fig. 16 COMPRESSOR CLUTCH RELAY
TERMINAL LEGEND
NUMBER IDENTIFICATION
30 COMMON FEED
85 COIL GROUND
86 COIL BATTERY
87 NORMALLY OPEN
87A NORMALLY CLOSED
Fig. 17 POWER DISTRIBUTION CENTER
1 - COVER
2 - POWER DISTRIBUTION CENTER
24 - 18 CONTROLSBR/BE
A/C COMPRESSOR CLUTCH RELAY (Continued)

tom of the a/c heater control panel. Refer to Heated
Mirrors for more information on this feature.
The heater-only or a/c heater control panel cannot
be repaired. If faulty or damaged, the entire unit
must be replaced. The control knobs and the illumi-
nation lamps are available for service replacement.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - A/C HEATER
CONTROL
Satisfactory heater and air conditioner perfor-
mance depends upon proper operation and adjust-
ment of all operating controls and refrigeration
system components. For circuit descriptions and dia-
grams, (Refer to Appropriate Wiring Information).
These inspections, tests, and adjustments should be
used to locate the cause of a malfunction.
Operation must be tested as described in the fol-
lowing sequence:
(1) Inspect and adjust the serpentine drive belt.
Refer to Cooling for the procedures.
(2) Start the engine and hold the idle speed at
1,300 rpm.
(3) On vehicles with air conditioning, turn the
temperature control knob to the extreme counter-
clockwise (Cool) position, and set the mode control
switch knob to the Bi-Level (A/C) position. The out-
side (recirculation) air door should be open to outside
air. If not OK, (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CON-
DITIONING/CONTROLS - DIAGNOSIS AND TEST-
ING - VACUUM SYSTEM).
(4) Open the vehicle windows. Test the blower
motor operation in all speeds. If not OK, (Refer to 24
- HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/DISTRIBU-
TION/BLOWER MOTOR - DIAGNOSIS AND TEST-
ING).
(5) On vehicles with air conditioning, the compres-
sor should be running and the air conditioning sys-
tem in operation unless the ambient air temperature
is below about -1É C (30É F). If not OK, (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING - DIAGNOSIS
AND TESTING - A/C PERFORMANCE).
(6) Check the mode control switch operation. The
heater and air conditioner systems should respond as
described in the owner's manual in the vehicle glove
box to each mode selected. Reduce the engine speed
to normal idle. The vacuum will be high at low idle
and the vacuum actuators should respond quickly. If
not OK, (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING/CONTROLS - DIAGNOSIS AND TEST-
ING - VACUUM SYSTEM).
(7) If the vacuum tests, and the electrical compo-
nent and circuit tests reveal no problems, disassem-
ble the HVAC housing to inspect for mechanical
misalignment or binding of the mode doors. (Refer to
24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/DISTRIBU-
TION/HVAC HOUSING - DISASSEMBLY)
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.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Reach under the instrument panel near the
driver side of the floor panel transmission tunnel and
unplug the a/c heater control to HVAC housing vac-
uum harness connector.
(3) While still reaching under the instrument
panel, disengage the retainer on the a/c heater con-
trol half of the vacuum harness from the hole in the
center distribution duct (Fig. 18).
(4) Remove the cluster bezel from the instrument
panel. Refer to Instrument Panel System for the pro-
cedures.
Fig. 18 A/C HEATER CONTROL VACUUM HARNESS
ROUTING
1 - A/C HEATER CONTROL VACUUM HARNESS
2 - REINFORCEMENT
3 - RETAINER
4 - CENTER DISTRIBUTION DUCT
BR/BECONTROLS 24 - 19
A/C HEATER CONTROL (Continued)

REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Unplug the wire harness connector from the a/c
high pressure switch, which is mounted to a fitting
on the discharge line between the compressor and
the condenser inlet.
(3) Unscrew the a/c high pressure switch from the
discharge line fitting.
(4) Remove the a/c high pressure switch from the
vehicle.
(5) Remove the O-ring seal from the discharge line
fitting and discard.
INSTALLATION
(1) Lubricate a new O-ring seal with clean refrig-
erant oil and install it on the discharge line 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 recommended for the com-
pressor in the vehicle. (Refer to 24 - HEATING &
AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING/REFRIGERANT
OIL - DESCRIPTION)
(2) Install and tighten the high pressure cut-off
switch on the discharge line fitting. The switch
should be hand-tightened onto the discharge line fit-
ting.
(3) Plug the wire harness connector into the high
pressure cut-off switch.
(4) Connect the battery negative cable.
A/C LOW PRESSURE SWITCH
DESCRIPTION
The a/c low pressure switch is located on the top of
the accumulator. The switch is screwed onto an accu-
mulator fitting that contains a Schrader-type valve,
which allows the switch to be serviced without dis-
charging the refrigerant system. The accumulator fit-
ting is equipped with an O-ring to seal the switch
connection.
OPERATION
The a/c low pressure switch is connected in series
electrically with the a/c high pressure switch and the
a/c heater control, between ground and the Power-
train Control Module (PCM). The switch contacts
open and close causing the PCM to turn the compres-
sor clutch on and off. This regulates the refrigerant
system pressure and controls evaporator tempera-
ture. Controlling evaporator temperature prevents
condensate water on the evaporator fins from freez-
ing and obstructing air conditioning system air flow.
The a/c low pressure switch contacts are open
when the suction pressure is about 152-165 kPa(22-24 psi) or lower. The switch contacts will close
when the suction pressure rises to about 255-296 kPa
(37-43 psi) or above. Lower ambient temperatures,
below about -1É C (30É F), will also cause the switch
contacts to open. This is due to the pressure/temper-
ature relationship of the refrigerant in the system.
The a/c low pressure switch is a factory-calibrated
unit. It cannot be adjusted or repaired and, if faulty
or damaged, it must be replaced.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - A/C LOW
PRESSURE SWITCH
Before performing diagnosis of the a/c low pressure
switch, be certain that the switch is properly
installed on the accumulator fitting. If the switch is
too loose it may not open the Schrader-type valve in
the accumulator fitting, which will prevent the
switch from correctly monitoring the refrigerant sys-
tem pressure. Also verify that the refrigerant system
has the correct refrigerant charge. (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING - DIAGNOSIS
AND TESTING - A/C PERFORMANCE)
Remember that lower ambient temperatures, below
about -1É C (30É F), during cold weather will open the
switch contacts and prevent compressor operation
due to the pressure/temperature relationship of the
refrigerant. For circuit descriptions and diagrams,
(Refer to Appropriate Wiring Information).
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Unplug the a/c low pressure switch wire har-
ness connector from the switch on the accumulator
fitting.
(3) Install a jumper wire between the two cavities
of the a/c low pressure switch wire harness connector.
(4) Connect a manifold gauge set to the refrigerant
system service ports. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR
CONDITIONING/PLUMBING - STANDARD PRO-
CEDURE - REFRIGERANT SYSTEM SERVICE
EQUIPMENT)
(5) Connect the battery negative cable.
(6) Place the a/c heater mode control switch knob
in any A/C position and start the engine.
(7) Check for continuity between the two terminals
of the low pressure cycling clutch switch. There
should be continuity with a suction pressure reading
of 296 kPa (43 psi) or above, and no continuity with a
suction pressure reading of 172 kPa (25 psi) or below.
If OK, test and repair the A/C switch sense circuit as
required. If not OK, replace the faulty switch.
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
BR/BECONTROLS 24 - 21
A/C HIGH PRESSURE SWITCH (Continued)

motor speeds, but can only be turned off by selecting
the Off position with the heater-only or a/c heater
control switch knob.
OPERATION
The blower motor switch directs the blower motor
ground path through the mode control switch to the
blower motor resistor, or directly to ground, as
required to achieve the selected blower motor speed.
The blower motor switch cannot be repaired and, if
faulty or damaged, the entire heater-only or a/c
heater control unit must be replaced. The blower
motor switch knob is serviced separately.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BLOWER MOTOR
SWITCH
For circuit descriptions and diagrams, (Refer to
Appropriate Wiring Information).
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.
(1) Check for battery voltage at the fuse in the
Power Distribution Center (PDC). If OK, go to Step
2. If not OK, repair the shorted circuit or component
as required and replace the faulty fuse.
(2) Turn the ignition switch to the Off position.
Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable.
Remove the a/c heater control from the instrument
panel. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITION-
ING/CONTROLS/A/C HEATER CONTROL -
REMOVAL) Check for continuity between the ground
circuit cavity of the a/c heater control wire harness
connector and a good ground. There should be conti-
nuity. If OK, go to Step 3. If not OK, repair the open
circuit to ground as required.
(3) With the a/c heater control wire harness con-
nector unplugged, place the a/c heater mode control
switch knob in any position except the Off position.
Check for continuity between the ground circuit ter-
minal and each of the blower motor driver circuit ter-
minals of the a/c heater control as you move the
blower motor switch knob to each of the four speed
positions. There should be continuity at each drivercircuit terminal in only one blower motor switch
speed position. If OK, test and repair the blower
driver circuits between the a/c heater control connec-
tor and the blower motor resistor as required. If not
OK, replace the faulty a/c heater control unit.
REMOVAL
The blower motor switch cannot be repaired and, if
faulty or damaged, the entire heater-only or a/c
heater control unit must be replaced. (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/CONTROLS/A/C
HEATER CONTROL - REMOVAL) The blower motor
switch knob is serviced separately.
BLEND DOOR ACTUATOR
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.
(1) Turn the ignition switch to the run position.
(2) Locate the temperature control knob in the mid
(12 o'clock) position.
(3) Turn the ignition switch to the off position.
(4) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(5) Remove the instrument panel from the vehicle.
Refer to Instrument Panel System for the procedures.
(6) Remove the HVAC housing from the vehicle.
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
DISTRIBUTION/HVAC HOUSING - REMOVAL)
(7) Unplug the wire harness connector from the
blend door actuator (Fig. 24).
(8) Remove the two mounting screws which secure
the actuator to the housing.
(9) Slide the blend door actuator off the blend door
shaft.
NOTE: A black plastic coupler may be attached to
the blend door shaft. Remove the coupler and
inspect for damage. Reinstall if there is no damage
found.
BR/BECONTROLS 24 - 25
BLOWER MOTOR SWITCH (Continued)