app DODGE RAM 2003 Service Repair Manual

INSTALLATION
(1) Plug the two wire harness connectors into the
back of the A/C Heater control.
(2) Position the A/C Heater control in the instru-
ment panel bezel and secure it with four screws.
Tighten the screws to 2.2 N´m (20 in. lbs.).
(3) Reinstall the center bezel onto the instrument
panel(Refer to 23 - BODY/INSTRUMENT PANEL/IN-
STRUMENT PANEL CENTER BEZEL - INSTALLA-
TION).
(4) Connect the battery negative cable.
A/C PRESSURE TRANSDUCER
DESCRIPTION - A/C PRESSURE TRANSDUCER
The A/C pressure transducer is a switch that is
installed on a fitting located on the refrigerant dis-
charge line between the compressor and the conden-
sor in the front corner of the engine compartment. An
internally threaded hex fitting on the transducer con-
nects it to the externally threaded Schrader-type fit-
ting on the liquid line. A rubber O-ring seals the
connection between the transducer and the discharge
line fitting. Three terminals within a molded plastic
connector receptacle on the top of the transducer con-
nect it to the vehicle electrical system through a take
out and connector of the headlamp and dash wire
harness.
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) provides a five
volt reference signal and a sensor ground to the
transducer, then monitors the output voltage of the
transducer on a sensor return circuit to determine
refrigerant pressure. The PCM is programmed to
respond to this and other sensor inputs by controlling
the operation of the air conditioning compressor
clutch and the radiator cooling fan to help optimize
air conditioning system performance and to protect
the system components from damage. The A/C pres-
sure transducer input to the PCM will also prevent
the air conditioning compressor clutch from engaging
when ambient temperatures are below about 10É C
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 refriger-
ant 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,
Fig. 12 Dual Zone A/C Control
1 - A/C Button
2 - Max. A/C Button
3 - Sideview Mirror Defrost Button (if equiped)
4 - Mounting Tabs (4)
5 - Driverside Temperature Control
6 - Passengerside Temperature Control
7 - Mode Control
8 - Blower Motor Speed Control
Fig. 13 HVAC Control - (Rear View- typical)
1 - Mounting Tabs (4)
2 - Mounting Screws (4)
3 - HVAC Control Connector
4 - Heated Sideview Mirror Connector
5 - HVAC Control Assembly
DRCONTROLS 24 - 15
A/C HEATER CONTROL (Continued)

trol module learns the blend air door stop positions
during the calibration procedure and will store a
Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) for any problems it
detects in the blend door actuator circuits. The blend
door actuator can be diagnosed using a DRBIIItscan
tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
REMOVAL
The single zone heating and air conditioning sys-
tem is equipped with a single blend door actuator.
The dual zone system has two blend door actuators,
one for the driver side blend air door and one for the
passenger side blend air door. The same service pro-
cedures can be used for each of these actuators.
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISO-
LATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE,
THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR THE AIRBAG SYS-
TEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PER-
FORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS
IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG
SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRE-
CAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIR-
BAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL
INJURY.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Remove the instrument panel assembly(Refer
to 23 - BODY/INSTRUMENT PANEL/INSTRUMENT
PANEL ASSEMBLY - REMOVAL).
(3) Disconnect the HVAC wire harness connector
for the blend door actuator from the actuator connec-
tor receptacle. (Fig. 14)
(4) Remove the screws that secure the blend door
actuator to the distribution housing.
(5) Remove the blend door actuator from the dis-
tribution housing.
INSTALLATION
(1) Position the blend door actuator into the heat-
er/air conditioner housing. If necessary, rotate the
actuator slightly to align the splines on the actuator
output shaft with those in the blend air door linkage.
(2) Install and tighten the three screws that secure
the blend door actuator to the distribution housing.
Tighten the screws to 2 N´m (17 in. lbs.).
(3) Reconnect the HVAC wire harness connector
for the blend door actuator to the actuator connector
receptacle.
(4) Install the instrument panel assembly(Refer to
23 - BODY/INSTRUMENT PANEL/INSTRUMENT
PANEL ASSEMBLY - INSTALLATION).(5) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
(6) Perform the heater-A/C control calibration pro-
cedure. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITION-
ING/CONTROLS - FRONT/A/C-HEATER CONTROL
- STANDARD PROCEDURE - HEATER-A/C CON-
TROL CALIBRATION).BLOWER MOTOR RESISTOR
BLOCK
DESCRIPTION
The blower motor resistor is mounted to the rear
side of the HVAC housing on the passenger side of
the vehicle.
OPERATION
The resistor is a ceramic resistor that utilizes
resistor circuit tracers to reduce current flow to the
Fig. 14 HVAC Housing - Dual Zone Shown (Typical -
Single Zone)
1 - Mounting Nut
2 - Passenger Blend Door Actuator (dual zone)
3 - Mounting Nut
4 - Air Intake Spacer
5 - Recirculation Door Actuator
6 - Recirculation Door Assembly
7 - Driver Side Blend Door Actuator
8 - HVAC Housing
9 - Mounting Screw
10 - Defroster Door Actuator
11 - Panel Actuator
DRCONTROLS 24 - 17
BLEND DOOR ACTUATOR (Continued)

blower. The blower motor switch directs the ground
path through the correct resistor circuit to obtain the
selected speed.
The blower motor resistor cannot be repaired and,
if faulty or damaged, it must be replaced.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BLOWER MOTOR
RESISTOR
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) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Reach under the passenger side bottom of the
HVAC unit and unplug the wire harness connector
from the blower motor resistor.
(3) Check for continuity between each of the
blower motor switch input terminals of the resistor
and the resistor output terminal. In each case there
should be continuity. If OK, repair the wire harness
circuits between the blower motor switch and the
blower motor resistor or blower motor relay as
required. If not OK, replace the faulty blower motor
resistor.
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) The blower motor resistor is accessable from
the passenger side of the HVAC unit and is located
on the bottom of the HVAC unit.
(3) Pull out the lock on the blower motor resistor
wire harness connector to unlock the connector latch.
(4) Depress the latch on the blower motor resistor
wire harness connector and unplug the connector
from the resistor.
(5) Remove the two screws that secure the resistor
to the HVAC housing.
(6) Remove the resistor from the HVAC housing.
INSTALLATION
(1) Install the new resistor in the HVAC housing.
(2) Install the two screws that secure the resistor
to the HVAC housing and tighten to 2.2 N´m (20 in.
lbs.).
(3) Plug in the blower motor harness connector.
(4) Push in the lock on the blower motor resistor
harness connector.
(5) Close the glove box door.
(6) Connect the battery negative cable.
BLOWER MOTOR SWITCH
DESCRIPTION
The A/C Heater blower motor is controlled by a
four position rotary-type blower motor switch,
mounted in the A/C Heater control panel. The switch
allows the selection of one of four blower motor
speeds, but can only be turned off by selecting the
Off position on the blower motor switch.
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 A/C Heater control unit
must be replaced.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BLOWER MOTOR
SWITCH
For circuit descriptions and diagrams, (Refer to
Appropriate Wiring Information).
24 - 18 CONTROLSDR
BLOWER MOTOR RESISTOR BLOCK (Continued)

to the mode door linkage, as it is electronically cali-
brated by the heater-A/C control module. The mode
door actuator cannot be adjusted or repaired and, if
damaged or faulty, it must be replaced.
OPERATION
The mode door actuator is connected to the heater-
A/C control module through the vehicle electrical sys-
tem by a dedicated two-wire take out and connector
of the HVAC wire harness. The mode door actuator
can move the mode door in two directions. When the
heater-A/C control module pulls the voltage on one
side of the motor connection high and the other con-
nection low, the mode door will move in one direction.
When the module reverses the polarity of the voltage
to the motor, the mode door moves in the opposite
direction. When the module makes the voltage to
both connections high or both connections low, the
mode door stops and will not move. These same
motor connections also provide a feedback signal to
the heater-A/C control module. This feedback signal
allows the module to monitor the operation and rela-
tive position of the mode door actuator and the mode
door. The heater-A/C control module learns the mode
door stop positions during the calibration procedure
and will store a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) for
any problems it detects in the mode door actuator
circuits. The mode door actuator can be diagnosed
using a DRBIIItscan tool. Refer to the appropriate
diagnostic information.
REMOVAL
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISO-
LATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE,
THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR THE AIRBAG SYS-
TEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PER-
FORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS
IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG
SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRE-
CAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIR-
BAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL
INJURY.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Remove the instrument panel assembly(Refer
to 23 - BODY/INSTRUMENT PANEL/INSTRUMENT
PANEL ASSEMBLY - REMOVAL).
(3) Disconnect the electricial connector from the
actuator (single or dual zone as required).
(4) Remove the two screws that secure the mode
door actuators to the distribution housing. For singlezone systems only lower actuator in present. For dual
zone systems remove second actuator which is
mounted on top of HVAC housing (Fig. 17).
(5) Remove the mode door actuators from the dis-
tribution housing.
Fig. 17 HVAC Housing - Dual Zone Shown (Typical -
Single Zone)
1 - Mounting Nut
2 - Passenger Blend Door Actuator (dual zone)
3 - Mounting Nut
4 - Air Intake Spacer
5 - Recirculation Door Actuator
6 - Recirculation Door Assembly
7 - Driver Side Blend Door Actuator
8 - HVAC Housing
9 - Mounting Screw
10 - Defroster Door Actuator
11 - Panel Actuator
DRCONTROLS 24 - 21
MODE DOOR ACTUATOR (Continued)

INSTALLATION
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISO-
LATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE,
THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR THE AIRBAG SYS-
TEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PER-
FORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS
IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG
SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRE-
CAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIR-
BAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL
INJURY.
(1) Position the mode door actuators onto the heat-
er/AC housing. If necessary, rotate the actuator
slightly to align the splines on the actuator output
shaft with those in the mode door linkage.
(2) Install and tighten the two screws that secure
the mode door actuators to the distribution housing.
Tighten the screws to 2 N´m (17 in. lbs.).
(3) Reconnect the HVAC wire harness connector
for the mode door actuators to the actuator connector
receptacle.
(4) Install the instrument panel assembly(Refer to
23 - BODY/INSTRUMENT PANEL/INSTRUMENT
PANEL ASSEMBLY - INSTALLATION).
(5) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
(6) Perform the heater-A/C control calibration pro-
cedure. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITION-
ING/CONTROLS - FRONT/A/C-HEATER CONTROL
- STANDARD PROCEDURE - HEATER-A/C CON-
TROL CALIBRATION).
RECIRCULATION DOOR
ACTUATOR
DESCRIPTION
The recirculation door actuator is a reversible,
12-volt Direct Current (DC), servo motor. The single
recirculation door actuator is located on the passen-
ger side end of the heater-A/C housing unit. The
recirculation door actuator is mechanically connected
to the recirculation air door. The recirculation door
actuator is interchangeable with the actuators for the
blend air door(s) and the mode doors. Each actuator
is contained within an identical black molded plastic
housing with an integral wire connector receptacle.
Two integral mounting tabs allow the actuator to be
secured with two screws to the intake air housing.
Each actuator also has an identical output shaft with
splines that connects it to the linkage that drives therecirculation air door. The recirculation door actuator
does not require mechanical indexing to the recircu-
lation air door, as it is electronically calibrated by the
heater-A/C control module. The recirculation door
actuator cannot be adjusted or repaired and, if dam-
aged or faulty, it must be replaced.
OPERATION
The recirculation door actuator is connected to the
heater-A/C control module through the vehicle elec-
trical system by a dedicated two-wire take out and
connector of the HVAC wire harness. The recircula-
tion door actuator can move the recirculation door in
two directions. When the heater-A/C control module
pulls the voltage on one side of the motor connection
high and the other connection low, the recirculation
air door will move in one direction. When the module
reverses the polarity of the voltage to the motor, the
recirculation air door moves in the opposite direction.
When the module makes the voltage to both connec-
tions high or both connections low, the recirculation
air door stops and will not move. These same motor
connections also provide a feedback signal to the
heater-A/C control module. This feedback signal
allows the module to monitor the operation and rela-
tive position of the recirculation door actuator and
the recirculation air door. The heater-A/C control
module learns the recirculation air door stop posi-
tions during the calibration procedure and will store
a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) for any problems it
detects in the recirculation door actuator circuits.
The recirculation door actuator can be diagnosed
using a DRBIIItscan tool. Refer to the appropriate
diagnostic information.
REMOVAL
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISO-
LATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE,
THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR THE AIRBAG SYS-
TEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PER-
FORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS
IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG
SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRE-
CAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIR-
BAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL
INJURY.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Pull the carpet on the passenger side front
floor away from the dash panel far enough to access
the recirculation door actuator.
24 - 22 CONTROLSDR
MODE DOOR ACTUATOR (Continued)

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BLOWER MOTOR
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.
For circuit descriptions and diagrams, (Refer to
Appropriate Wiring Information). Possible causes of
an inoperative blower motor include:
²Faulty fuse
²Faulty blower motor circuit wiring or wire har-
ness connectors
²Faulty blower motor resistor
²Faulty blower motor relay
²Faulty blower motor switch
²Faulty A/C Heater mode control switch
²Faulty blower motor.
Possible causes of the blower motor not operating
in all speeds include:
²Faulty blower motor switch
²Faulty blower motor resistor
²Faulty blower motor circuit wiring or wire har-
ness connectors.
VIBRATION
Possible causes of blower motor vibration include:
²Improper blower motor mounting
²Improper blower wheel mounting
²Blower wheel out of balance or bent
²Blower motor faulty.
NOISE
To verify that the blower is the source of the noise,
unplug the blower motor wire harness connector and
operate the HVAC system. If the noise goes away,
possible causes include:
²Foreign material in the HVAC housing
²Improper blower motor mounting
²Improper blower wheel mounting
²Blower motor faulty.
REMOVAL
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERINGCOLUMN, 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.
The blower motor is located on the passenger side
of the vehicle under the dash
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Unplug the blower motor wire harness connec-
tor (Fig. 3).
(3) Remove the three screws that secure the
blower motor and wheel assembly to the HVAC hous-
ing.
(4) Rotate and tilt the blower motor unit as needed
for clearance to remove the blower motor and wheel
from the HVAC housing.
INSTALLATION
(1) Align and install the blower motor and wheel
assembly into the HVAC housing.
(2) Install the three mounting screws and tighten
to 2.2 N´m (20 in. lbs.).
Fig. 3 Blower Motor Assembly- (Case Removed
from vehicle for graphic)
1 - Blower Motor Resistor Mounting Screws (2)
2 - Blower Motor Resistor
3 - Blower Motor Resistor Connector
4 - Blower Motor Mounting Screw
5 - Blower Motor Assmebly
6 - Blower Motor Wire
7 - Blower Motor Mounting Screw
8 - HVAC Housing
9 - Blower Motor Wire Hold Down
10 - Blower Motor Mounting Screw
24 - 26 DISTRIBUTIONDR
BLOWER MOTOR (Continued)

CAUTION
SERVICE CAUTIONS
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. Damage to the system will result.
R-12 refrigerant oil must not be mixed with R-134a
refrigerant oil. They are not compatible.
Do not use R-12 equipment or parts on the R-134a
system. Damage to the system will result.
Do not overcharge the refrigerant system. This 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.
Do not remove the secondary retention clip from
any spring-lock coupler connection while the refrig-
erant system is under pressure. Recover the refrig-
erant before removing the secondary retention clip.
Open the fittings with caution, even after the sys-
tem has been discharged. Never open or loosen a
connection before recovering the refrigerant.
The refrigerant system must always be evacuated
before charging.
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 out-
side of the fittings thoroughly to prevent contami-
nation from entering the refrigerant system.
Immediately after disconnecting a component from
the refrigerant system, seal the open fittings with a
cap or plug.
Before connecting an open refrigerant fitting,
always install a new seal or gasket. Coat the fitting
and seal with clean refrigerant oil before connect-
ing.
Do not remove the sealing caps from a replacement
component until it is to be installed.
When installing a refrigerant line, avoid sharp
bends that may restrict refrigerant flow. Position the
refrigerant lines away from exhaust system compo-
nents or any sharp edges, which may damage the
line.
Tighten refrigerant fittings only to the specified
torque. The aluminum fittings used in the refriger-
ant system will not tolerate overtightening.
When disconnecting a refrigerant fitting, use a
wrench on both halves of the fitting. This will pre-vent twisting of the refrigerant lines or tubes.
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 through care-
less work habits must be avoided.
CAUTION - REFRIGERANT HOSES/LINES/
TUBES PRECAUTIONS
Kinks or sharp bends in the refrigerant plumbing
will reduce the capacity of the entire system. High
pressures are produced in the system when it is oper-
ating. Extreme care must be exercised to make sure
that all refrigerant system connections are pressure
tight.
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. Sharp bends will reduce the
flow of refrigerant. The flexible hose lines should be
routed so they are at least 80 millimeters (3 inches)
from the exhaust manifold. It is a good practice to
inspect all flexible refrigerant system hose lines at
least once a year to make sure they are in good con-
dition and properly routed.
There are two types of refrigerant fittings:
²All fittings with O-rings need to be coated with
refrigerant oil before installation. Use only O-rings
that are the correct size and approved for use with
R-134a refrigerant. Failure to do so may result in a
leak.
²Unified plumbing connections with gaskets can-
not be serviced with O-rings. The gaskets are not
reusable and new gaskets do not require lubrication
before installing.
Using the proper tools when making a refrigerant
plumbing connection is very important. Improper
tools or improper use of the tools can damage the
refrigerant fittings. Always use two wrenches when
loosening or tightening tube fittings. Use one wrench
to hold one side of the connection stationary, while
loosening or tightening the other side of the connec-
tion with a second wrench.
The refrigerant must be recovered completely from
the system before opening any fitting or connection.
Open the fittings with caution, even after the refrig-
erant has been recovered. If any pressure is noticed
as a fitting is loosened, tighten the fitting and
recover the refrigerant from the system again.
Do not discharge refrigerant into the atmosphere.
Use an R-134a refrigerant recovery/recycling device
that meets SAE Standard J2210.
DRPLUMBING 24 - 33
PLUMBING (Continued)

The refrigerant system will remain chemically sta-
ble as long as pure, moisture-free R-134a refrigerant
and refrigerant oil is used. Dirt, moisture, or air can
upset this chemical stability. Operational troubles or
serious damage can occur if foreign material is
present in the refrigerant system.
When it is necessary to open the refrigerant sys-
tem, have everything needed to service the system
ready. The refrigerant system should not be left open
to the atmosphere any longer than necessary. Cap or
plug all lines and fittings as soon as they are opened
to prevent the entrance of dirt and moisture. All lines
and components in parts stock should be capped or
sealed until they are to be installed.
All tools, including the refrigerant recycling equip-
ment, the manifold gauge set, and test hoses should
be kept clean and dry. All tools and equipment must
be designed for R-134a refrigerant.
STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT
SYSTEM SERVICE EQUIPMENT
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) (Refer to 24 - HEATING &
AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING - CAUTION)
When servicing the air conditioning system, a
R-134a refrigerant recovery/recycling/charging sta-
tion that meets SAE Standard J2210 must be used.
Contact an automotive service equipment supplier for
refrigerant recovery/recycling/charging equipment.
Refer to the operating instructions supplied by the
equipment manufacturer for proper care and use of
this equipment.
A manifold gauge set may be needed with some
recovery/recycling/charging equipment (Fig. 1). The
service hoses on the gauge set being used should
have manual (turn wheel), or automatic back-flow
valves at the service port connector ends. This will
prevent refrigerant from being released into the
atmosphere.
MANIFOLD GAUGE SET CONNECTIONS
CAUTION: Do not use an R-12 manifold gauge set
on an R-134a system. The refrigerants are not com-
patible and system damage will result.
LOW PRESSURE GAUGE HOSE The low pressure
hose (Blue with Black stripe) attaches to the suctionservice port. This port is located on the suction line
between the accumulator outlet and the compressor.
HIGH PRESSURE GAUGE HOSE The high pres-
sure hose (Red with Black stripe) attaches to the dis-
charge service port. This port is located on the liquid
line between the condenser outlet and the evaporator.
RECOVERY/RECYCLING/EVACUATION/CHARG-
ING HOSE The center manifold hose (Yellow, or
White, with Black stripe) is used to recover, evacu-
ate, and charge the refrigerant system. When the low
or high pressure valves on the manifold gauge set
are opened, the refrigerant in the system will escape
through this hose.
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) (Refer to 24 - HEATING &
AIR CONDITIONING/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-
Fig. 1 MANIFOLD GAUGE SET - TYPICAL
1 - HIGH PRESSURE GAUGE
2 - VALVE
3 - VACUUM/REFRIGERANT HOSE (YELLOW W/ BLACK STRIPE)
4 - HIGH PRESSURE HOSE (RED W/ BLACK STRIPE)
5 - LOW PRESSURE HOSE (BLUE W/ BLACK STRIPE)
6 - VALVE
7 - LOW PRESSURE GAUGE
24 - 34 PLUMBINGDR
PLUMBING (Continued)

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 orifice
tube is in good condition. If there is little or no
detectable temperature differential between the two
ends of the liquid line, the orifice tube is obstructed
or missing and the liquid line must be replaced.
REMOVAL
The fixed orifice tube is located in the liquid line,
between the condenser and the evaporator coil. The
orifice has filter screens on the inlet and outlet ends
of the tube body. If the fixed orifice tube is faulty or
plugged, the liquid line assembly must be replace-
d(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING/LIQUID LINE - REMOVAL).
INSTALLATION
The fixed orifice tube is located in the liquid line,
between the condenser and the evaporator coil. The
orifice has filter screens on the inlet and outlet ends
of the tube body. If the fixed orifice tube is faulty or
plugged, the liquid line assembly must be replace-
d(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING/LIQUID LINE - INSTALLATION).
ACCUMULATOR
DESCRIPTION
The accumulator is mounted in the engine com-
partment between the A/C evaporator outlet tube and
the compressor inlet.
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 the
canister, 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) (Refer to 24 - HEATING &
AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING - CAUTION)(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Recover the refrigerant from the refrigerant
system. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING/PLUMBING - STANDARD PROCEDURE -
REFRIGERANT RECOVERY)
(3) Loosen the fasteners that secure the accumula-
tor and support bracket to the dash panel (Fig. 15).
(4) Disconnect the suction line refrigerant line fit-
ting from the accumulator outlet. (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
STANDARD PROCEDURE - A/C LINE COUPLERS)
Install plugs in, or tape over all of the opened refrig-
erant line fittings.
(5) Disconnect the accumulator inlet refrigerant
line fitting from the evaporator outlet. (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
STANDARD PROCEDURE) Install plugs in, or tape
over all of the opened refrigerant line fittings.
(6) Remove the accumulator assembly from the
engine compartment.
Fig. 15 A/C Accumulator
1 - Inner Fender
2 - Line from Accumulator to Evaporator
3 - A/C Line Rentention Clip
4 - Evaporator Ports
5 - Accumulator Mounting Screws
6 - Accumulator
7 - Suction Line
8 - A/C Charging Port
9 - A/C Line Rentention Clip
DRPLUMBING 24 - 49
A/C ORIFICE TUBE (Continued)

(7) Ensure that the spring-lock coupler is fully
engaged by trying to separate the two coupler halves.
This is done by pulling the refrigerant lines on either
side of the coupler away from each other.
(8) Reinstall the secondary clip over the spring-
lock coupler cage.
REFRIGERANT OIL
DESCRIPTION
The refrigerant oil used in R-134a refrigerant sys-
tems is a synthetic-based, PolyAlkylene Glycol (PAG),
wax-free lubricant. Mineral-based R-12 refrigerant
oils are not compatible with PAG oils, and should
never be introduced to an R-134a refrigerant system.
There are different PAG oils available, and each
contains a different additive package. The SD±7 com-
pressor used in this vehicle is designed to use an
SP-15 PAG refrigerant oil. Use only refrigerant oil of
this same type to service the refrigerant system.
OPERATION
After performing any refrigerant recovery or recy-
cling operation, always replenish the refrigerant sys-
tem with the same amount of the recommended
refrigerant oil as was removed. Too little refrigerant
oil can cause compressor damage, and too much can
reduce air conditioning system performance.
PAG refrigerant oil is much more hygroscopic than
mineral oil, and will absorb any moisture it comes
into contact with, even moisture in the air. The PAG
oil container should always be kept tightly capped
until it is ready to be used. After use, recap the oil
container immediately to prevent moisture contami-
nation.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT OIL
LEVEL
When an air conditioning system is assembled at
the factory, all components except the compressor are
refrigerant oil free. After the refrigerant system hasbeen charged and operated, the refrigerant oil in the
compressor is dispersed throughout the refrigerant
system. The accumulator, evaporator, condenser, and
compressor will each retain a significant amount of
the needed refrigerant oil.
It is important to have the correct amount of oil in
the refrigerant system. This ensures proper lubrica-
tion of the compressor. Too little oil will result in
damage to the compressor. Too much oil will reduce
the cooling capacity of the air conditioning system.
It will not be necessary to check the oil level in the
compressor or to add oil, unless there has been an oil
loss. An oil loss may occur due to a rupture or leak
from a refrigerant line, a connector fitting, a compo-
nent, or a component seal. If a leak occurs, add 30
milliliters (1 fluid ounce) of refrigerant oil to the
refrigerant system after the repair has been made.
Refrigerant oil loss will be evident at the leak point
by the presence of a wet, shiny surface around the
leak.
Refrigerant oil must be added when a accumulator,
evaporator coil or condenser are replaced. See the
Refrigerant Oil Capacities chart. When a compressor
is replaced, the refrigerant oil must be drained from
the old compressor and measured. Drain all of the
refrigerant oil from the new compressor, then fill the
new compressor with the same amount of refrigerant
oil that was drained out of the old compressor.
Refrigerant Oil Capacities
Component ml fl oz
Complete A/C System 180 6
Accumulator 60 2
Condenser 30 1
Evaporator 60 2
Compressordrain and measure
the oil from the old
compressor - see
text.
24 - 54 PLUMBINGDR
REFRIGERANT LINE COUPLER (Continued)