DODGE TOWN AND COUNTRY 2001 Service Manual

REMOVAL
The rear blower motor and blower wheel are ser-
viced only as a balanced unit. If either component is
faulty or damaged, the entire unit must be replaced.
WARNING: REFER TO THE APPLICABLE WARN-
INGS AND CAUTIONS FOR THIS SYSTEM BEFORE
PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING OPERATION.
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - FRONT - WARNING - A/C PLUMBING),
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - FRONT - CAUTION - A/C PLUMBING),
and (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - FRONT - WARNING - HEATER PLUMB-
ING).
(1) Remove the rear heater-A/C unit housing from
the vehicle. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING/DISTRIBUTION - REAR/REAR HEATER-
A/C HOUSING - REMOVAL).
(2) Disconnect the rear blower motor pigtail wire
connector. With manual temperature control, the
blower pigtail wire is connected to a take out and
connector of the rear HVAC wire harness. With auto-
matic temperature control, the blower pigtail wire is
connected to a receptacle on the blower power mod-
ule.
(3) Remove the three screws that secure the
blower motor to the outboard side of the rear heater-
A/C unit housing (Fig. 5).
(4) Remove the blower motor and blower wheel
from the rear heater-A/C unit housing.
INSTALLATION
(1) Position the blower motor and blower wheel
onto the outboard side of the rear heater-A/C unit
housing (Fig. 5).
(2) Install and tighten the three screws that secure
the blower motor to the rear heater-A/C unit housing.
Tighten the screws to 2 N´m (18 in. lbs.).
(3) Reconnect the rear blower motor pigtail wire
connector. With manual temperature control, the
blower pigtail wire is connected to a take out and
connector of the rear HVAC wire harness. With auto-
matic temperature control, the blower pigtail wire is
connected to a receptacle on the blower power mod-
ule.
(4) Reinstall the rear heater-A/C unit housing into
the vehicle. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING/DISTRIBUTION - REAR/REAR HEATER-
A/C HOUSING - INSTALLATION).
REAR HEATER-A/C HOUSING
REMOVAL
WARNING: REFER TO THE APPLICABLE WARN-
INGS AND CAUTIONS FOR THIS SYSTEM BEFORE
PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING OPERATION.
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - FRONT - WARNING - A/C PLUMBING),
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - FRONT - CAUTION - A/C PLUMBING),
and (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - FRONT - WARNING - HEATER PLUMB-
ING).
(1) Recover the refrigerant from the refrigerant
system. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING/PLUMBING - FRONT/REFRIGERANT -
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT
RECOVERY).
Fig. 5 Blower Motor
1 - REAR HEATER-A/C UNIT HOUSING
2 - BLOWER MOTOR
3 - SCREW (3)
4 - BLOWER PIGTAIL WIRE
24 - 58 DISTRIBUTION - REARRS
BLOWER MOTOR (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com

(2) Drain the engine cooling system. (Refer to 7 -
COOLING - STANDARD PROCEDURE - COOLING
SYSTEM DRAIN).
(3) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(4) Raise and support the vehicle.
(5) Disconnect the underbody refrigerant line seal-
ing plate from the rear heater-A/C unit evaporator
extension line sealing plate that extends through the
rear floor panel behind the right rear wheel housing
(Fig. 6).
(6) Remove the seals from the liquid line and suc-
tion line fittings and discard.
(7) Install plugs in, or tape over the opened liquid
line and suction line fittings and both ports in the
evaporator extension line sealing plate.
(8) Remove the three nuts that secure the rear
heater-A/C unit mounting studs to the rear floor
panel behind the right rear wheel housing (Fig. 7).
(9) Lower the vehicle.
(10) Remove the right quarter trim panel and
right D-pillar trim panel from the quarter inner
panel. (Refer to 23 - BODY/INTERIOR/QUARTER
TRIM PANEL - REMOVAL).
(11) Remove the rear A/C distribution duct from
the rear heater-A/C unit and the rear roof duct.
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
DISTRIBUTION - REAR/AUXILIARY A/C DISTRI-
BUTION DUCT - REMOVAL).
(12) Disconnect the body wire harness connector
for the rear heater-A/C unit housing from the rear
HVAC wire harness connector located near the
expansion valve at the back of the unit.
(13) Remove the two screws that secure the top of
the quarter trim panel attaching bracket to the quar-
ter inner panel.(14) Remove the two screws that secure the bottom
of the quarter trim panel attaching bracket to the
rear heater-A/C unit housing.
(15) Remove the rear heater distribution duct from
the right quarter inner panel. (Refer to 24 - HEAT-
ING & AIR CONDITIONING/DISTRIBUTION -
REAR/REAR HEATER DISTRIBUTION DUCT -
REMOVAL).
(16) Take the proper precautions to protect the
carpeting below the rear heater core from spilled
engine coolant and have absorbent toweling readily
available to clean up any spills.
(17) Disconnect the heater hoses at the rear heater
core. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITION-
ING/PLUMBING - REAR/HEATER HOSE - REMOV-
AL).
(18) Install plugs in, or tape over the opened
heater core fittings and both heater hoses.
(19) Use absorbent toweling to mop up any engine
coolant spills from the preceding operation.
(20) Remove the screw that secures the back of the
rear heater-A/C unit housing to the right D-pillar
(Fig. 8).
(21) Remove the screw that secures the front of
the rear heater-A/C unit housing to the right quarter
inner panel.
(22) Lift the rear heater-A/C unit housing up far
enough for the lower mounting studs and the evapo-
rator extension lines to clear the mounting holes in
the rear floor panel.
(23) Remove the rear heater-A/C unit housing from
the vehicle.
(24) Use absorbent toweling to mop up any engine
coolant spills from the preceding operation.
Fig. 6 Refrigerant Lines
1 - UNDERBODY REFRIGERANT LINE SEALING PLATE
Fig. 7 Rear Heater-A/C Unit Mounting Studs
1 - REAR HEATER-A/C UNIT MOUNTING STUDS
RSDISTRIBUTION - REAR24-59
REAR HEATER-A/C HOUSING (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com

INSTALLATION
NOTE: If the rear heater core or the rear heater-A/C
housing have been removed from the vehicle for
service, the rear heater core may be pre-filled with
the proper engine coolant mixture prior to recon-
necting the heater hoses to the heater core hose fit-
tings. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - REAR/HEATER CORE - STANDARD
PROCEDURE - HEATER CORE FILLING).
(1) Position the rear heater-A/C unit housing into
the vehicle with the evaporator extension line sealing
plate inserted into the rectangular hole in the rear
floor panel behind the right rear wheel house.
(2) Align the rear heater-A/C unit housing lower
mounting studs with the mounting holes in the rear
floor panel and lower the unit to the floor (Fig. 8).(3) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
front of the rear heater-A/C unit housing to the right
quarter inner panel. Tighten the screw to 11 N´m (97
in. lbs.).
(4) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
back of the rear heater-A/C unit housing to the right
D-pillar. Tighten the screw to 11 N´m (97 in. lbs.).
(5) Remove the plugs or tape from both heater core
fittings and both heater hoses.
(6) Reconnect the heater hoses to the rear heater
core. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITION-
ING/PLUMBING - REAR/HEATER HOSE - INSTAL-
LATION).
(7) Reinstall the rear heater distribution duct onto
the right quarter inner panel. (Refer to 24 - HEAT-
ING & AIR CONDITIONING/DISTRIBUTION -
REAR/REAR HEATER DISTRIBUTION DUCT -
INSTALLATION).
Fig. 8 Rear Heater-A/C Housing
1 - U-NUT (3)
2 - REAR HEATER-A/C HOUSING
3 - SCREW (3)
4 - EXPANSION VALVE
5 - STUD (3)6 - HEATER LINES
7 - NUT (5)
8 - STUD (2)
24 - 60 DISTRIBUTION - REARRS
REAR HEATER-A/C HOUSING (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com

(8) Install and tighten the two screws that secure
the bottom of the quarter trim panel attaching
bracket to the rear heater-A/C unit housing. Tighten
the screws to 1.7 N´m (15 in. lbs.).
(9) Install and tighten the two screws that secure
the top of the quarter trim panel attaching bracket to
the quarter inner panel.
(10) Reconnect the body wire harness connector for
the rear heater-A/C unit housing to the rear HVAC
wire harness connector located near the expansion
valve at the back of the unit.
(11) Reinstall the auxiliary A/C distribution duct
onto the rear heater-A/C unit and the rear roof duct.
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
DISTRIBUTION - REAR/AUXILIARY A/C DISTRI-
BUTION DUCT - INSTALLATION).
(12) Reinstall the right quarter trim panel and
right D-pillar trim panel onto the quarter inner
panel. (Refer to 23 - BODY/INTERIOR/QUARTER
TRIM PANEL - INSTALLATION).
(13) Raise and support the vehicle.
(14) Install and tighten the three nuts that secure
the rear heater-A/C unit mounting studs to the rear
floor panel behind the right rear wheel housing (Fig.
7). Tighten the nuts to 9 N´m (80 in. lbs.).
(15) Remove the tape or plugs from the underbody
liquid line and suction line fittings and both ports in
the rear heater-A/C unit evaporator extension line
sealing plate that extends through the rear floor
panel behind the right rear wheel housing.
(16) Lubricate new rubber O-ring seals with clean
refrigerant oil and install them on the liquid line and
suction line fittings.
(17) Reconnect the underbody refrigerant line seal-
ing plate to the evaporator extension line sealing
plate (Fig. 6).
(18) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
underbody refrigerant line sealing plate to the evap-
orator extension line sealing plate. Tighten the screw
to 23 N´m (17 ft. lbs.).
(19) Lower the vehicle.
(20) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
(21) Refill the engine cooling system. (Refer to 7 -
COOLING - STANDARD PROCEDURE - COOLING
SYSTEM REFILL).
(22) Evacuate the refrigerant system. (Refer to 24
- HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
FRONT/REFRIGERANT - STANDARD PROCE-
DURE - REFRIGERANT SYSTEM EVACUATE).
(23) Charge the refrigerant system. (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
FRONT/REFRIGERANT - STANDARD PROCE-
DURE - REFRIGERANT SYSTEM CHARGE).REAR HEATER DISTRIBUTION
DUCT
REMOVAL
(1) Remove the trim from the right quarter inner
panel. (Refer to 23 - BODY/INTERIOR/RIGHT
QUARTER TRIM PANEL - REMOVAL).
(2) Remove the two screws that secure the rear
heater distribution duct to the right quarter inner
panel (Fig. 9).
(3) Slide the rear heater distribution duct forward
far enough to disengage it from the outlet on the
front of the rear heater-air conditioner unit housing.
(4) Remove the rear heater distribution duct from
the vehicle.
INSTALLATION
(1) Align the inlet end of rear heater distribution
duct with the outlet on the front of the rear heater-
air conditioner unit housing (Fig. 9).
(2) Slide the rear heater distribution duct rear-
ward far enough to fully engage the inlet end of the
duct with the outlet on the front of the rear heater-
air conditioner unit housing.
(3) Install and tighten the two screws that secure
the rear heater distribution duct to the right quarter
inner panel. Tighten the screws to 1.6 N´m (14 in.
lbs.).
(4) Reinstall the trim onto the right quarter inner
panel. (Refer to 23 - BODY/INTERIOR/RIGHT
QUARTER TRIM PANEL - INSTALLATION).
Fig. 9 Rear Heater Distribution Duct
1 - REAR HEATER DISTRIBUTION DUCT
2 - REAR HEATER-A/C UNIT OUTLET
3 - SCREW (2)
RSDISTRIBUTION - REAR24-61
REAR HEATER-A/C HOUSING (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com

PLUMBING - FRONT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
PLUMBING - FRONT
WARNING..............................62
CAUTION...............................63
COMPRESSOR
DESCRIPTION...........................64
OPERATION.............................65
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING.................65
COMPRESSOR NOISE DIAGNOSIS.........65
REMOVAL..............................65
INSTALLATION...........................66
CONDENSER
DESCRIPTION...........................67
OPERATION.............................67
REMOVAL..............................68
INSTALLATION...........................69
DISCHARGE LINE
REMOVAL..............................70
INSTALLATION...........................70
EVAPORATOR
DESCRIPTION...........................71
OPERATION.............................71
REMOVAL..............................71
INSTALLATION...........................73
EXPANSION VALVE
DESCRIPTION...........................74
OPERATION.............................74
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING.................74
EXPANSION VALVE.....................74
REMOVAL..............................75
INSTALLATION...........................75
HEATER CORE
DESCRIPTION...........................76
OPERATION.............................76
REMOVAL..............................76INSTALLATION...........................79
HEATER HOSE
REMOVAL..............................80
INSTALLATION...........................82
LIQUID LINE
REMOVAL..............................82
INSTALLATION...........................84
RECEIVER/DRIER
DESCRIPTION...........................85
OPERATION.............................86
REMOVAL..............................86
INSTALLATION...........................86
REFRIGERANT
DESCRIPTION...........................87
OPERATION.............................87
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING.................87
REFRIGERANT SYSTEM CHARGE LEVEL....87
REFRIGERANT SYSTEM LEAKS...........89
STANDARD PROCEDURE..................89
SERVICE EQUIPMENT...................89
REFRIGERANT SYSTEM CHARGE.........90
REFRIGERANT SYSTEM EVACUATE........91
REFRIGERANT RECOVERY...............91
REFRIGERANT OIL
DESCRIPTION...........................91
OPERATION.............................92
STANDARD PROCEDURE..................92
REFRIGERANT OIL LEVEL................92
SUCTION LINE
REMOVAL..............................92
INSTALLATION...........................93
SERVICE PORTS
REMOVAL..............................94
INSTALLATION...........................95
PLUMBING - FRONT
WARNING
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 SYSTEM IS HOT AND UNDER
PRESSURE. FAILURE TO OBSERVE THIS WARNING
CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS BURNS FROM THE
HEATED ENGINE COOLANT. ALLOW THE VEHICLE
TO COOL FOR A MINIMUM OF 15 MINUTES
BEFORE OPENING THE COOLING SYSTEM FOR
SERVICE.
24 - 62 PLUMBING - FRONTRS
ProCarManuals.com

WARNING: THE ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM CON-
TAINS ANTIFREEZE. ANTIFREEZE IS AN ETHYLENE
GLYCOL BASED COOLANT AND IS HARMFUL IF
SWALLOWED OR IF THE VAPORS ARE INHALED. IF
SWALLOWED, DRINK TWO GLASSES OF WATER
AND INDUCE VOMITING. IF VAPORS ARE INHALED,
MOVE TO AN AREA FOR FRESH AIR. SEEK MEDI-
CAL ATTENTION IMMEDIATELY. DO NOT STORE IN
OPEN OR UNMARKED CONTAINERS. WASH SKIN
AND CLOTHING THOROUGHLY AFTER COMING IN
CONTACT WITH ETHYLENE GLYCOL. KEEP OUT
OF REACH OF CHILDREN.
WARNING: DISPOSE OF ETHYLENE GLYCOL
BASED COOLANT PROPERLY. CONTACT YOUR
DEALER OR A LOCAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY FOR
THE LOCATION OF AN APPROVED ETHYLENE GLY-
COL COLLECTION AND/OR RECYCLING CENTER IN
YOUR AREA.
WARNING - A/C PLUMBING
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.
WARNING: AVOID BREATHING THE REFRIGERANT
AND REFRIGERANT OIL VAPOR OR MIST. EXPO-
SURE MAY IRRITATE THE EYES, NOSE, AND/OR
THROAT. WEAR EYE PROTECTION WHEN SERVIC-
ING THE AIR CONDITIONING REFRIGERANT SYS-
TEM. SERIOUS EYE INJURY CAN RESULT FROM
DIRECT CONTACT WITH THE REFRIGERANT. IF
EYE CONTACT OCCURS, SEEK MEDICAL ATTEN-
TION IMMEDIATELY.
WARNING: DO NOT EXPOSE THE REFRIGERANT
TO OPEN FLAME. POISONOUS GAS IS CREATED
WHEN REFRIGERANT IS BURNED. AN ELEC-
TRONIC LEAK DETECTOR IS RECOMMENDED.
WARNING: IF ACCIDENTAL SYSTEM DISCHARGE
OCCURS, VENTILATE THE WORK AREA BEFORE
RESUMING SERVICE. LARGE AMOUNTS OF
REFRIGERANT RELEASED IN A CLOSED WORK
AREA WILL DISPLACE THE OXYGEN AND CAUSE
SUFFOCATION.
WARNING: THE EVAPORATION RATE OF R-134a
REFRIGERANT AT AVERAGE TEMPERATURE ANDALTITUDE IS EXTREMELY HIGH. AS A RESULT,
ANYTHING THAT COMES IN CONTACT WITH THE
REFRIGERANT WILL FREEZE. ALWAYS PROTECT
THE SKIN OR DELICATE OBJECTS FROM DIRECT
CONTACT WITH THE REFRIGERANT.
WARNING: THE R-134a SERVICE EQUIPMENT OR
THE VEHICLE REFRIGERANT SYSTEM SHOULD
NOT BE PRESSURE TESTED OR LEAK TESTED
WITH COMPRESSED AIR. SOME MIXTURES OF AIR
AND R-134a HAVE BEEN SHOWN TO BE COMBUS-
TIBLE AT ELEVATED PRESSURES. THESE MIX-
TURES ARE POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS, AND MAY
RESULT IN FIRE OR EXPLOSION CAUSING INJURY
OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.
CAUTION - A/C PLUMBING
CAUTION: Liquid refrigerant is corrosive to metal
surfaces. Follow the operating instructions supplied
with the service equipment being used.
CAUTION: Never add R-12 to a refrigerant system
designed to use R-134a. Damage to the system will
result.
CAUTION: R-12 refrigerant oil must not be mixed
with R-134a refrigerant oil. They are not compatible.
CAUTION: Do not use R-12 equipment or parts on
the R-134a system. Damage to the system will
result. All parts, tools, and equipment must be
designed for R-134a refrigerant.
CAUTION: Do not discharge refrigerant into the
atmosphere. Use an R-134a refrigerant recovery/re-
cycling device that meets SAE Standard J2210.
CAUTION: The refrigerant must be recovered com-
pletely from the system before opening any fitting
or connection. Open the fittings with caution, even
after the system has been discharged. If any pres-
sure is noticed as a fitting is loosened, tighten the
fitting and recover the refrigerant from the system
again.
CAUTION: The refrigerant system must always be
evacuated before charging.
RSPLUMBING - FRONT24-63
PLUMBING - FRONT (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com

CAUTION: Do not overcharge the refrigerant sys-
tem. This will cause excessive compressor head
pressure and can cause noise and system failure.
CAUTION: Do not open the refrigerant system or
remove the sealing caps from a replacement com-
ponent until it is to be installed. This will prevent
contamination in the system.
CAUTION: Before disconnecting a component,
clean the outside of the fittings thoroughly to pre-
vent contamination from entering the refrigerant
system.
CAUTION: When it is necessary to open the refrig-
erant system, have everything needed to service
the system ready. Immediately after disconnecting a
component from the refrigerant system, seal the
open fittings with a cap or plug to prevent the
entrance of dirt and moisture. The refrigerant sys-
tem should not be left open to the atmosphere any
longer than necessary.
CAUTION: Before connecting an open refrigerant
fitting, always install a new seal or gasket. All fit-
tings with O-rings need to be coated with refriger-
ant 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.
Coat the fitting and seal with clean refrigerant oil
before connecting. Unified plumbing connections
with gaskets cannot be serviced with O-rings. The
gaskets are not reusable and new gaskets do not
require lubrication before installing.
CAUTION: When installing a refrigerant line, avoid
sharp bends that may restrict refrigerant flow. 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.
CAUTION: Position the refrigerant lines away from
exhaust system components or any sharp edges,
which may damage the line. The flexible hose lines
should be routed so they are at least 80 millimeters
(3 inches) from the exhaust manifold. Inspect all
flexible refrigerant system hose lines at least once
a year to make sure they are in good condition and
properly routed.CAUTION: High pressures are produced in the
refrigerant system when it is operating. Extreme
care must be exercised to make sure that all refrig-
erant system connections are pressure tight.
CAUTION: Tighten refrigerant fittings only to the
specified torque. The aluminum fittings used in the
refrigerant system will not tolerate overtightening.
CAUTION: When disconnecting a refrigerant fitting,
use a wrench on both halves of the fitting. This will
prevent twisting of the refrigerant lines or tubes.
CAUTION: Refrigerant oil will absorb moisture from
the atmosphere 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 immedi-
ately after using. Store refrigerant oil only in a
clean, airtight, and moisture-free container.
CAUTION: All tools, including the refrigerant recy-
cling equipment, the manifold gauge set, and test
hoses should be kept clean and dry. Keep the work
area clean. Contamination of the refrigerant system
through careless work habits must be avoided. The
refrigerant system will remain chemically stable 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
introduced to the refrigerant system.
COMPRESSOR
DESCRIPTION
The compressor used on this vehicle can be one of
two models, depending upon the air conditioning sys-
tem in the vehicle. All vehicles use the Nippondenso
10S20H compressor. This compressor use an alumi-
num swash plate, teflon coated pistons and alumi-
num sleeveless cylinder walls. This compressor
includes an integral high pressure relief valve. The
compressor is secured low in the right front corner of
the engine compartment to a mounting bracket on
the cylinder block (2.4L engine), or directly to the cyl-
inder block (3.3L and 3.8L engines).is integral to the
compressor. This compressor cannot be repaired. If
faulty or damaged, the entire compressor must be
replaced. The compressor clutch, pulley, and clutch
coil are available for service replacement.
24 - 64 PLUMBING - FRONTRS
PLUMBING - FRONT (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com

OPERATION
The compressor is driven by the engine through an
electric clutch, drive pulley and belt arrangement.
The compressor is lubricated by refrigerant oil that is
circulated throughout the refrigerant system with the
refrigerant. The compressor draws in low-pressure
refrigerant vapor from the evaporator through its
suction port. It then compresses the refrigerant into
a high-pressure, high-temperature refrigerant vapor.
The compressor pumps high-pressure refrigerant
vapor to the condenser through the compressor dis-
charge port. The mechanical high pressure relief
valve is designed to vent refrigerant from the system
to protect against damage to the compressor or other
system components, caused by condenser air flow
restrictions or an overcharge of refrigerant. The valve
only vents enough refrigerant to reduce the system
pressure, then re-seats itself. The valve opens at a
discharge pressure of 3445 to 4135 kPA (500 to 600
psi) or above, and closes when a minimum discharge
pressure of 2756 kPa (400 psi) is reached.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - COMPRESSOR
NOISE
Excessive noise while the air conditioning compres-
sor is operating can be caused by loose compressor
mounts, a loose compressor clutch, or high operating
pressures in the refrigerant system. Verify compres-
sor drive belt condition, proper compressor mounting,
correct refrigerant charge level, and compressor head
pressure before compressor repair is performed.
With the close tolerances within the compressor, it
is possible to experience a temporary lockup. The
longer the compressor is inactive, the more likely the
condition is to occur. This condition is the result of
normal refrigerant migration within the refrigerant
system caused by ambient temperature changes. The
refrigerant migration may wash the refrigerant oil
out of the compressor.
NOTE: Prior to a vehicle being removed from ser-
vice or stored for more than two weeks, the com-
pressor should be operated to ensure adequate
refrigerant oil distribution throughout the system
components. Turn on the air conditioner for a min-
imum of five minutes with outside air and the high-
est blower speed selected.
BELT NOISE
If the compressor drive belt slips at initial start-up,
it does not necessarily mean the compressor has
failed. The following procedure can be used to iden-
tify a compressor drive belt noise problem.
²Start the vehicle and run at idle.²Turn the air conditioner On and listen for belt
squeal.
²If belt squeal is heard, turn the air conditioner
Off immediately.
If the belt squeal stops when the air conditioner is
turned Off, perform the following repair procedures.
(1) Using an appropriate sized oil filter wrench or
a strap wrench, grasp the outer diameter of the com-
pressor clutch hub. While facing the compressor,
rotate the hub clockwise, then counterclockwise. If
the hub rotates, proceed to the next step. If the hub
will not rotate, the compressor is internally damaged,
and must be replaced.
(2) Turn the hub clockwise five complete revolu-
tions and remove the tool.
(3) Start the vehicle and run at idle.
(4) Turn the air conditioner On. Observe the com-
pressor and the system for normal operation, noting
cooling performance and noise levels. Operate for five
minutes before turning the air conditioner Off. If
acceptable cooling performance is observed during
compressor operation, the compressor does not need
to be replaced.
(5) Inspect the drive belt for wear, damage, and
proper tension. (Refer to 7 - COOLING/ACCESSORY
DRIVE/DRIVE BELTS - DIAGNOSIS AND TEST-
ING).
REMOVAL - COMPRESSOR
WARNING: REFER TO THE APPLICABLE WARN-
INGS AND CAUTIONS FOR THIS SYSTEM BEFORE
PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING OPERATION.
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - FRONT - WARNING - A/C PLUMBING)
and (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - FRONT - CAUTION - A/C PLUMBING).
(1) Recover the refrigerant from the refrigerant
system. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING/PLUMBING - FRONT/REFRIGERANT -
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT
RECOVERY).
(2) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(3) Remove the nut that secures the suction line
fitting to the top of the compressor.
(4) Disconnect the suction line fitting from the
compressor suction port.
(5) Remove the seal from the suction line fitting
and discard.
(6) Install plugs in, or tape over the opened suc-
tion line fitting and the compressor suction port.
(7) Remove the nut that secures the discharge line
fitting to the top of the compressor.
(8) Disconnect the discharge line fitting from the
compressor discharge port.
RSPLUMBING - FRONT24-65
COMPRESSOR (Continued)
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(9) Remove the seal from the discharge line fitting
and discard.
(10) Install plugs in, or tape over the opened dis-
charge line fitting and the compressor discharge port.
(11) Raise and support the vehicle.
(12) Remove the serpentine accessory drive belt
from the front of the engine. (Refer to 7 - COOLING/
ACCESSORY DRIVE/DRIVE BELTS - 2.4L -
REMOVAL) or (Refer to 7 - COOLING/ACCESSORY
DRIVE/DRIVE BELTS - 3.3L/3.8L - REMOVAL).
(13) Disconnect the engine wire harness connector
for the compressor clutch coil from the coil pigtail
wire connector on the top of the compressor (Fig. 1)
or (Fig. 2).
(14) On models with the 3.3L and 3.8L engines,
disengage the retainer on the engine wire harness
compressor clutch coil take out from the bracket on
the top of the compressor.
(15) On models with the 2.4L engine, remove the
four screws that secure the compressor to the mount-
ing bracket on the engine.
(16) On models with the 3.3L and 3.8L engines,
remove the three screws and one nut that secure the
compressor to the engine.
(17) Remove the compressor from the engine com-
partment.
NOTE: If a replacement compressor is being
installed, be certain to drain and measure the refrig-
erant oil contained in the removed compressor.
This will determine how much oil the replacement
compressor must contain before it is installed.(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - FRONT/REFRIGERANT OIL - STAN-
DARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT OIL LEVEL).
REMOVAL - COMPRESSOR MOUNTING
BRACKET - 2.4L ENGINE
(1) Remove the compressor from the mounting
bracket. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING/PLUMBING/COMPRESSOR - REMOVAL).
(2) Remove the four screws that secure the com-
pressor mounting bracket to the engine (Fig. 3).
(3) Remove the compressor mounting bracket from
the engine.
INSTALLATION - COMPRESSOR
NOTE: If a replacement compressor is being
installed, be certain to check the refrigerant oil
level. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - FRONT/REFRIGERANT OIL - STAN-
DARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT OIL LEVEL).
Use only refrigerant oil of the type recommended
for the compressor in the vehicle.
(1) Position the compressor into the engine com-
partment.
(2) On models with the 2.4L engine, loosely install
the four screws that secure the compressor to the
mounting bracket on the engine (Fig. 1). Tighten the
screws to 28 N´m (21 ft. lbs.).
Fig. 1 Compressor - 2.4L Engine
1 - CLUTCH COIL CONNECTOR
2 - DISCHARGE PORT
3 - COMPRESSOR
4 - SUCTION PORT
5 - SCREW (4)
6 - COMPRESSOR MOUNTING BRACKET
Fig. 2 Compressor - 3.3L/3.8L Engine
1 - STUD
2 - CLUTCH COIL CONNECTOR
3 - DISCHARGE PORT
4 - SCREW (2)
5 - SUCTION PORT
6 - COMPRESSOR
7 - SCREW
8 - NUT
24 - 66 PLUMBING - FRONTRS
COMPRESSOR (Continued)
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(3) On models with the 3.3L and 3.8L engines,
loosely install the three screws and one nut that
secure the compressor to the engine (Fig. 2). Tighten
each of the fasteners using the following sequence to
54 N´m (40 ft. lbs.).
²The upper screw at the rear of the compressor.
²The lower screw at the rear of the compressor.
²The lower screw at the front of the compressor.
²The upper nut at the front of the compressor.
(4) On models with the 3.3L and 3.8L engines only,
engage the retainer on the engine wire harness com-
pressor clutch coil take out with the bracket on the
top of the compressor.
(5) Reconnect the engine wire harness connector
for the compressor clutch coil to the coil pigtail wire
connector on the top of the compressor.
(6) Reinstall the serpentine accessory drive belt
onto the front of the engine. (Refer to 7 - COOLING/
ACCESSORY DRIVE/DRIVE BELTS - 2.4L -
INSTALLATION) or (Refer to 7 - COOLING/ACCES-
SORY DRIVE/DRIVE BELTS - 3.3L/3.8L - INSTAL-
LATION).
(7) Lower the vehicle.
(8) Remove the tape or plugs from the compressor
discharge port and the discharge line fitting.
(9) Lubricate a new rubber O-ring seal with clean
refrigerant oil and install it on the discharge line fit-
ting.
(10) Reconnect the discharge line fitting to the
compressor discharge port.
(11) Install and tighten the nut that secures the
discharge line fitting to the compressor. Tighten the
nut to 23 N´m (17 ft. lbs.).
(12) Remove the tape or plugs from the compressor
suction port and the suction line fitting.(13) Lubricate a new rubber O-ring seal with clean
refrigerant oil and install it on the suction line fit-
ting.
(14) Reconnect the suction line fitting to the com-
pressor suction port.
(15) Install and tighten the nut that secures the
suction line fitting to the compressor. Tighten the nut
to 23 N´m (17 ft. lbs.).
(16) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
(17) Evacuate the refrigerant system. (Refer to 24
- HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
FRONT/REFRIGERANT - STANDARD PROCE-
DURE - REFRIGERANT SYSTEM EVACUATE).
(18) Charge the refrigerant system. (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
FRONT/REFRIGERANT - STANDARD PROCE-
DURE - REFRIGERANT SYSTEM CHARGE).
INSTALLATION - COMPRESSOR MOUNTING
BRACKET - 2.4L ENGINE
(1) Position the compressor mounting bracket onto
the engine (Fig. 3).
(2) Install and tighten the four screws that secure
the compressor mounting bracket to the engine.
Tighten the screws to 54 N´m (40 ft. lbs.).
(3) Reinstall the compressor onto the mounting
bracket. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING/PLUMBING/COMPRESSOR - INSTALLA-
TION).
CONDENSER
DESCRIPTION
The condenser is integral to a cooling module
which includes the radiator, the electric cooling fan,
the fan shroud, air seals and an automatic transmis-
sion oil cooler. The cooling module is located in the
air flow in the front of the engine compartment
behind the radiator grille. The condenser cannot be
repaired or adjusted and, if faulty or damaged, it
must be replaced. The condenser may be removed
from the cooling module for service without removing
the cooling module from the vehicle.
OPERATION
The condenser is a heat exchanger that allows the
high-pressure refrigerant gas being discharged by the
compressor to give up its heat to the air passing over
the condenser fins. When the refrigerant gas gives up
its heat, it condenses. When the refrigerant leaves
the condenser, it has become a high-pressure liquid
refrigerant. The volume of air flowing over the con-
denser fins is critical to the proper cooling perfor-
mance of the air conditioning system. Therefore, it is
important that there are no objects placed in front of
Fig. 3 Compressor Mounting Bracket - 2.4L Engine
1 - MOUNTING BRACKET
2 - SCREWS (4)
3 - ENGINE
RSPLUMBING - FRONT24-67
COMPRESSOR (Continued)
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