refrigerant type DODGE TOWN AND COUNTRY 2003 Service Manual

A/C PRESSURE TRANSDUCER
DESCRIPTION - A/C PRESSURE TRANSDUCER
The A/C pressure transducer (Fig. 2) is a switch
that is installed on a fitting located on the refriger-
ant liquid line between the filter-drier and the
expansion valve in the right rear corner of the engine
compartment. An internally threaded hex fitting on
the transducer connects it to the externally threaded
Schrader-type fitting on the liquid line. A rubber
O-ring seals the connection between the transducer
and the liquid line fitting. Three terminals within a
molded plastic connector receptacle on the top of the
transducer connect 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 musty 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 liquid line.
The transducer will change its internal resistance in
response to the pressures it monitors. The Power-
train Control Module (PCM) provides a five volt ref-
erence 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 theradiator cooling fan to help optimize air conditioning
system performance and to protect the system com-
ponents from damage. The A/C pressure transducer
input to the PCM will also prevent the air condition-
ing compressor clutch from engaging when ambient
temperatures are below about 10É C (50É F) due to
the pressure/temperature relationship of the refriger-
ant. The Schrader-type valve in the liquid line fitting
permits the A/C pressure transducer to be removed
or installed without disturbing the refrigerant in the
system. The A/C pressure transducer is diagnosed
using a DRBIIItscan tool. Refer to the appropriate
diagnostic information.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - A/C PRESSURE
TRANSDUCER
The A/C pressure transducer is tested using a
DRBIIItscan tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnos-
tic information. Before testing the A/C pressure
transducer, be certain that the transducer wire har-
ness connection is clean of corrosion and properly
connected. For the air conditioning system to operate,
an A/C pressure transducer voltage reading between
0.451 and 4.519 volts is required. Voltages outside
this range indicate a low or high refrigerant system
pressure condition to the Powertrain Control Module
(PCM). The PCM is programmed to respond to a low
or high refrigerant system pressure by suppressing
operation of the compressor. Refer to the A/C Pres-
sure Transducer Voltage table for the possible condi-
tion indicated by the transducer voltage readings.
A/C PRESSURE TRANSDUCER VOLTAGE
VOLTAGE POSSIBLE INDICATION
0.0 1. NO SENSOR SUPPLY
VOLTAGE FROM PCM.
2. SHORTED SENSOR CIRCUIT.
3. FAULTY TRANSDUCER.
0.150 TO 0.450 1. AMBIENT TEMPERATURE
BELOW 10É C (50É F).
2. LOW REFRIGERANT
SYSTEM PRESSURE.
0.451 TO 4.519 1. NORMAL REFRIGERANT
SYSTEM PRESSURE.
4.520 TO 4.850 1. HIGH REFRIGERANT
SYSTEM PRESSURE.
5.0 1. OPEN SENSOR CIRCUIT.
2. FAULTY TRANSDUCER.
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
Fig. 2 A/C Pressure Transducer
1 - RIGHT FRONT STRUT TOWER
2 - CONNECTOR
3 - A/C PRESSURE TRANSDUCER
4 - RIGHT WIPER MODULE DRAIN TUBE
5 - HIGH SIDE SERVICE PORT
6 - LIQUID LINE
24 - 10 CONTROLS - FRONTRS
ProCarManuals.com

(5) Using snap ring pliers (Special Tool C-4574 or
equivalent), install the external snap ring (bevel side
facing outward) that secures the clutch pulley to the
front cover of the compressor. Be certain that the
snap ring is fully and properly seated in the groove.
(6) If the original clutch plate and clutch pulley
are to be reused, reinstall the original shim(s) on the
compressor shaft against the shoulder. If a new
clutch plate and/or clutch pulley are being used,
install a trial stack of shims 1.0 mm (0.040 in.) thick
on the compressor shaft against the shoulder.
(7) Install the clutch plate onto the compressor
shaft.
(8) Install and tighten the compressor shaft nut. If
necessary, a band-type oil filter wrench or a strap
wrench can be placed around the clutch plate to aid
in bolt tightening. Tighten the bolt to 17.5 N´m (155
in. lbs.).
(9) If a new clutch plate and/or clutch pulley are
being installed, the air gap between the clutch plate
and clutch pulley must be checked. (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/CONTROLS -
FRONT/COMPRESSOR CLUTCH - STANDARD
PROCEDURE - COMPRESSOR CLUTCH AIR GAP).
(10) On models with the 2.4L engine only, loosely
install the four screws that secure the compressor to
the mounting bracket on the engine. Tighten the
screws to 28 N´m (21 ft. lbs.).
(11) On models with the 3.3L and 3.8L engines
only, loosely install the two screws and two nuts that
secure the compressor to the engine. Tighten each ofthe fasteners using the following sequence to 54 N´m
(40 ft. lbs.).
²The upper nut at the front of the compressor.
²The lower nut at the front of the compressor.
²The upper screw at the rear of the compressor.
²The lower screw at the rear of the compressor.
(12) On models with the 3.3L and 3.8L engines
only, engage the retainer on the engine wire harness
compressor clutch coil take out with the bracket on
the top of the compressor.
(13) Reconnect the engine wire harness connector
for the compressor clutch coil to the coil pigtail wire
connector on the top of the compressor.
(14) 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).
(15) Lower the vehicle.
(16) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
(17) If a new clutch plate and/or clutch pulley are
being installed, the new clutch components must be
burnished. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING/CONTROLS - FRONT/COMPRESSOR
CLUTCH - STANDARD PROCEDURE - COMPRES-
SOR CLUTCH BREAK-IN).
COMPRESSOR CLUTCH COIL
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - COMPRESSOR
CLUTCH COIL
The air conditioning compressor clutch coil electri-
cal circuit is controlled by the Powertrain Control
Module (PCM) through the compressor clutch relay,
which is located in the Intelligent Power Module
(IPM) in the engine compartment near the battery.
Begin testing of a suspected compressor clutch coil
problem by performing the preliminary checks.
PRELIMINARY CHECKS
(1) If the compressor clutch will not engage, verify
the refrigerant charge level. (Refer to 24 - HEATING
& AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING - FRONT/RE-
FRIGERANT - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING -
REFRIGERANT CHARGE LEVEL). If the refriger-
ant charge level is OK, go to Step 2. If the refriger-
ant charge level is not OK, adjust the refrigerant
charge as required.
(2) If the a/c compressor clutch still will not
engage, disconnect the headlamp and dash wire har-
ness connector for the A/C pressure transducer and
check for battery current at the connector with the
engine running and the heater-A/C control set to the
A/C mode. If OK, go to TESTS . If not OK, use a
Fig. 16 Install Clutch Pulley
1 - PULLEY ASSEMBLY
2 - WOOD BLOCK
24 - 20 CONTROLS - FRONTRS
COMPRESSOR CLUTCH (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com

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).
NOTE: The filter drier should always be replaced
when the compressor is replaced. This will remove
any contaminants including moisture from the sys-
tem.
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
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.
NOTE: The filter drier should always be replaced
when the compressor is replaced. This will remove
any contaminants including moisture from the sys-
tem.
(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. Tighten the screws
to 28 N´m (21 ft. lbs.).
(3) On models with the 3.3L and 3.8L engines,
loosely install the two screws and two nuts that
secure the compressor to the engine. Tighten each of
the fasteners using the following sequence to 54 N´m
(40 ft. lbs.).
²The upper nut at the front of the compressor.
²The lower nut at the front of the compressor.
²The upper screw at the rear of the compressor.
²The lower screw at the rear 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) Install a new gasket and reconnect the dis-
charge 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) Install a new gasket and reconnect the suc-
tion line fitting to the compressor 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.).
Fig. 3 Compressor Mounting Bracket - 2.4L Engine
1 - MOUNTING BRACKET
2 - SCREWS (4)
3 - ENGINE
RSPLUMBING - FRONT24-65
A/C COMPRESSOR (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com

crossmember and move the latch out of the way over
the top of the crossmember. Mark the location of
latch for reinstallation.
(6) Disconnect the hoses from the transmission oil
cooler fittings on the left side of the cooling module.
(Refer to 7 - COOLING/TRANSMISSION/TRANS
COOLER LINES - REMOVAL).
(7) Remove the nut that secures the discharge line
fitting to the condenser on the right side of the cool-
ing module.
(8) Disconnect the discharge line fitting from the
condenser inlet port.
(9) Remove the seals from the discharge line fit-
ting and discard.
(10) Install plugs in, or tape over the opened dis-
charge line fitting and the condenser inlet port.
(11) Remove the nut that secures the liquid line
fitting to the condenser on the right side of the cool-
ing module.
(12) Disconnect the liquid line fitting from the con-
denser outlet port.
(13) Remove the seals from the liquid line fitting
and discard.
(14) Install plugs in, or tape over the opened liquid
line fitting and the condenser outlet port.
(15) Remove the screw that secures the top of the
mounting bracket on each side of the condenser to
the cooling module (Fig. 5).
(16) Lift the condenser, transmission oil cooler, and
mounting brackets as a unit far enough to disengage
the locating pin that secures the mounting brackets
in the lower mount rubber isolators on each side of
the cooling module.
(17) Remove the condenser, transmission oil cooler,
and mounting brackets from the vehicle as a unit.
(18) Remove the two screws that secure each
mounting bracket to the sides of the condenser.
(19) Remove the one screw that secures the left
mounting bracket to the side of the transmission oil
cooler.
(20) Remove the left mounting bracket from the
side of the condenser and transmission oil cooler.
(21) Remove the condenser from the right mount-
ing bracket and transmission oil cooler unit.
INSTALLATION
NOTE: If the condenser is being replaced, add 30
milliliters (1 fluid ounce) of refrigerant oil to the
refrigerant system. Use only refrigerant oil of the
type recommended for the compressor in the vehi-
cle.
NOTE: Be certain that each of the radiator and con-
denser air seals are reinstalled in their proper loca-
tions. These air seals are required in order for theair conditioning and engine cooling systems to per-
form as designed.
(1) Position the condenser to the right mounting
bracket and transmission oil cooler unit.
(2) Position the left mounting bracket onto the side
of the condenser and transmission oil cooler.
(3) Install and tighten the one screw that secures
the left mounting bracket to the side of the transmis-
sion oil cooler. Tighten the screw to 5 N´m (45 in.
lbs.).
(4) Install and tighten the two screws that secure
each mounting bracket to the sides of the condenser.
Tighten the screws to 5 N´m (45 in. lbs.).
(5) Position the condenser, transmission oil cooler,
and mounting brackets into the vehicle as a unit. Be
certain that the locating pins that secure the mount-
ing brackets are engaged in the lower mount rubber
isolators on each side of the cooling module.
NOTE: Verify that the condensor isolators are all
installed and positioned correctly.
(6) Install and tighten the two screws that secure
the top of the mounting bracket on each side of the
condenser to the cooling module. Tighten the screws
to 5 N´m (45 in. lbs.).
Fig. 5 Condenser Mounting
1 - SCREW (2)
2 - LOWER MOUNT ISOLATOR (2)
3 - CONDENSER
RSPLUMBING - FRONT24-67
CONDENSER (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com

lation air door and the blower wheel housing (Fig.
11).
(12) Remove the screw and washer from the upper
pivot of the recirculation door.
(13) Remove the two screws that secure the upper
half of the recirculation air door to the lower half of
the door.
(14) Remove the upper half of the recirculation air
door from the lower half of the door (Fig. 12).(15) Remove the twelve screws around the perime-
ter of the evaporator housing that secure the upper
housing half to the lower half.
(16) Carefully separate and remove the upper half
of the evaporator housing from the lower half. Be cer-
tain not to lose the rubber grommet for the HVAC
wire harness evaporator temperature sensor take
out. This grommet is located on the inboard side of
the flange around the expansion valve/evaporator
tube opening on the dash panel side of the unit,
where it is captured in a notched area between the
upper and lower housing halves (Fig. 13).
(17) Carefully lift the evaporator and its foam
wrap out of the lower half of the evaporator housing
as a unit. Be certain not to lose the clam shell type
rubber seal that is fitted to the evaporator inlet and
outlet tubes where they exit the evaporator housing.
INSTALLATION
NOTE: If the evaporator is being replaced, add 60
milliliters (2 fluid ounces) of refrigerant oil to the
refrigerant system. Use only refrigerant oil of the
type recommended for the compressor in the vehi-
cle.
(1) Carefully lower the evaporator and its foam
wrap into the lower half of the evaporator housing as
a unit. Be certain that the clam shell type rubber
seal is fitted to the evaporator inlet and outlet tubes
where they exit the evaporator housing.
(2) Position the upper half of the evaporator hous-
ing onto the lower half. Be certain that the rubber
grommet and the HVAC wire harness take out for
the evaporator temperature sensor are captured in
Fig. 11 Upper Intake Air Housing
1 - EVAPORATOR HOUSING
2- UPPER INTAKE AIR HOUSING
3 - RECIRCULATION AIR DOOR
4 - BLOWER WHEEL
Fig. 12 Recirculation Air Door
1 - EVAPORATOR HOUSING
2 - UPPER RECIRCULATION AIR DOOR
3 - LOWER INTAKE AIR HOUSING
Fig. 13 Evaporator Housing
1 - LOWER EVAPORATOR HOUSING
2 - UPPER EVAPORATOR HOUSING
3 - BLOWER WHEEL
4 - EVAPORATOR
RSPLUMBING - FRONT24-71
EVAPORATOR (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com

the notched area between the upper and lower hous-
ing halves.
(3) Install and tighten the twelve screws around
the perimeter of the evaporator housing that secure
the upper housing half to the lower half. Tighten the
screws to 2 N´m (18 in. lbs.).
(4) Position the upper half of the recirculation air
door onto the lower half of the door.
(5) Install and tighten the two screws that secure
the upper half of the recirculation air door to the
lower half of the door. Tighten the screws to 2 N´m
(18 in. lbs.).
(6) Position the upper intake air housing onto the
top of the evaporator housing over the recirculation
air door and the blower wheel housing. Be certain
that the upper pivot of the recirculation air door is
captured in the pivot receptacle of the upper intake
air housing.
(7) Install and tighten the three screws that secure
the upper intake air housing to the top of the out-
board end of the evaporator housing. Be certain not
to miss the screw located just inside the inboard side
of the fresh air intake opening. Tighten the screws to
2 N´m (18 in. lbs.).
(8) Install and tighten the two screws that secure
the upper intake air housing to the lower intake air
housing. Tighten the screws to 2 N´m (18 in. lbs.).
(9) Engage the two hook formations on the bottom
of the distribution housing in the two receptacles on
the evaporator housing.
(10) Roll the top of the distribution housing up
into position against the evaporator housing.
(11) Install and tighten the three screws from the
dash panel side of the unit that secure the top of the
distribution housing to the inboard end of the evapo-
rator housing. Tighten the screws to 2 N´m (18 in.
lbs.).
(12) Engage the HVAC wire harness in the routing
clips molded into the outside of the HVAC housing
components.
(13) Reconnect the HVAC wire harness connector
for the blower motor with the motor connector recep-
tacle on the bottom of the outboard end of the evap-
orator housing.
(14) Reinstall the expansion valve onto the evapo-
rator inlet and outlet tube fittings. (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
FRONT/EXPANSION VALVE - INSTALLATION).
(15) Install a new foam seal onto the HVAC hous-
ing seal flange around the fresh air inlet opening and
the expansion valve/evaporator tube opening on the
dash panel side of the unit.
(16) Reinstall the heater core tubes into the heater
core. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITION-
ING/PLUMBING - FRONT/HEATER CORE -
INSTALLATION - HEATER CORE TUBES).(17) Reinstall the HVAC unit housing into the
vehicle. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING/DISTRIBUTION - FRONT/HVAC HOUS-
ING - INSTALLATION).
(18) Run the HVAC Control Actuator Calibration
procedure(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING)(Refer to 24
- HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING - DIAGNOSIS
AND TESTING).
EXPANSION VALVE
DESCRIPTION
The front ªHº valve-type thermal expansion valve
(TXV) is located at the dash panel between the liquid
and suction lines, and the evaporator coil. The
assembly consists of an H-valve body and a thermal
sensor. High-pressure, low temperature liquid refrig-
erant from the liquid line passes through the expan-
sion valve orifice, converting it into a low-pressure,
low-temperature mixture of liquid and gas before it
enters the evaporator coil. The expansion valve is a
factory calibrated unit and cannot be adjusted or
repaired. If faulty or damaged, the expansion valve
must be replaced.
OPERATION
A mechanical sensor in the expansion valve control
head monitors the temperature and pressure of the
refrigerant leaving the evaporator coil through the
suction line, and adjusts the orifice size at the liquid
line to let the proper amount of refrigerant into the
evaporator coil to meet the vehicle cooling require-
ments. Controlling the refrigerant flow through the
evaporator ensures that none of the refrigerant leav-
ing the evaporator is still in a liquid state, which
could damage the compressor. The thermo sensor
measures refrigerant suction gas temperature which
is monitored by the a/c control assembly.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - EXPANSION VALVE
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).
NOTE: The expansion valve should only be tested
following testing of the compressor.
24 - 72 PLUMBING - FRONTRS
EVAPORATOR (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com

indeterminable period or if the compressor has failed,
it must be replaced.
OPERATION
The filter-drier performs a filtering action to pre-
vent foreign material in the refrigerant from contam-
inating the expansion valve. A desiccant bag is
mounted inside the filter-drier canister to absorb any
moisture which may have entered and become
trapped within the refrigerant system. In addition,
during periods of high demand air conditioner opera-
tion, the filter-drier acts as a reservoir to store sur-
plus refrigerant. Refrigerant enters the filter-drier as
a high-pressure, low temperature liquid.
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)
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) Remove the air cleaner housing from the right
side of the engine compartment.
(3) Remove the screw that secures the liquid line
front section fitting to the top of the filter-drier (Fig.
30).
(4) Disconnect the liquid line fitting from the fil-
ter-drier inlet port.
(5) Remove the seal from the liquid line fitting and
discard.
(6) Install plugs in, or tape over the opened liquid
line fitting and the filter-drier inlet port.
(7) Remove the screw that secures the liquid line
rear section fitting to the top of the filter-drier.
(8) Disconnect the liquid line fitting from the fil-
ter-drier outlet port.
(9) Remove the seal from the liquid line fitting and
discard.
(10) Install plugs in, or tape over the opened liquid
line fitting and the filter-drier outlet port.
(11) Remove the two nuts that secure the filter-
drier mounting bracket to the weld studs on the side
of the right front strut tower.
(12) Remove the filter-drier and mounting bracket
unit from the studs.
INSTALLATION
NOTE: If the filter-drier is being replaced, add 30
milliliters (1 fluid ounce) of refrigerant oil to the
refrigerant system. Use only refrigerant oil of the
type recommended for the compressor in the vehi-
cle.
(1) Position the filter-drier and mounting bracket
unit onto the weld studs on the side of the right front
strut tower.
(2) Install and tighten the two nuts that secure
the filter-drier mounting bracket to the studs.
Tighten the nuts to 10 N´m (89 in. lbs.).
(3) Remove the tape or plugs from the liquid line
rear section fitting for the filter-drier and the filter-
drier outlet port.
(4) Lubricate a new rubber O-ring seal with clean
refrigerant oil and install it on the liquid line fitting.
(5) Reconnect the liquid line fitting to the filter-
drier outlet port on the top of the filter-drier.
Fig. 30 Front Liquid Lines
1 - A/C GROUND STRAP (IF EQUIPPED)
2 - NUT (IF EQUIPPED)
3 - WELD STUD (IF EQUIPPED)
4 - A/C PRESSURE TRANSDUCER
5 - WELD STUD (2)
6 - EXPANSION VALVE
7 - FRONT LIQUID LINE REAR SECTION
8 - LIQUID LINE EXTENSION (REAR A/C ONLY)
9 - NUT (2)
10 - FILTER-DRIER
11 - ROUTING CLIP
12 - FRONT LIQUID LINE FRONT SECTION
24 - 84 PLUMBING - FRONTRS
RECEIVER/DRIER (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com

(6) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
liquid line fitting to the filter-drier. Tighten the screw
to 11 N´m (100 in. lbs.).
(7) Remove the tape or plugs from the liquid line
front section fitting for the filter-drier and the filter-
drier inlet port.
(8) Lubricate a new rubber O-ring seal with clean
refrigerant oil and install it on the liquid line fitting.
(9) Reconnect the liquid line fitting to the filter-
drier inlet port on the top of the filter-drier.
(10) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
liquid line fitting to the filter-drier. Tighten the screw
to 11 N´m (100 in. lbs.).
(11) Reinstall the air cleaner housing into the
right side of the engine compartment.
(12) Evacuate the refrigerant system. (Refer to 24
- HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
FRONT/REFRIGERANT - STANDARD PROCE-
DURE - REFRIGERANT SYSTEM EVACUATE).
(13) Charge the refrigerant system. (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
FRONT/REFRIGERANT - STANDARD PROCE-
DURE - REFRIGERANT SYSTEM CHARGE).
REFRIGERANT
DESCRIPTION
The refrigerant used in this air conditioning sys-
tem is a HydroFluoroCarbon (HFC), type R-134a.
Unlike R-12, which is a ChloroFluoroCarbon (CFC),
R-134a refrigerant does not contain ozone-depleting
chlorine. R-134a refrigerant is a non-toxic, non-flam-
mable, clear, and colorless liquefied gas. Even though
R-134a does not contain chlorine, it must be
reclaimed and recycled just like CFC-type refriger-
ants. This is because R-134a is a greenhouse gas and
can contribute to global warming.
OPERATION
R-134a refrigerant is not compatible with R-12
refrigerant in an air conditioning system. Even a
small amount of R-12 added to an R-134a refrigerant
system will cause compressor failure, refrigerant oil
sludge or poor air conditioning system performance.
In addition, the PolyAlkylene Glycol (PAG) synthetic
refrigerant oils used in an R-134a refrigerant system
are not compatible with the mineral-based refriger-
ant oils used in an R-12 refrigerant system. R-134a
refrigerant system service ports, service tool couplers
and refrigerant dispensing bottles have all been
designed with unique fittings to ensure that an
R-134a system is not accidentally contaminated with
the wrong refrigerant (R-12). There are also labels
posted in the engine compartment of the vehicle and
on the compressor identifying to service techniciansthat the air conditioning system is equipped with
R-134a.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - REFRIGERANT
SYSTEM CHARGE LEVEL
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).
NOTE: The proper amount of R-134a refrigerant for
the refrigerant system in this model is:
²Single or Dual Zone (Front Unit Only) - 0.96
kilograms (2.13 pounds or 34 ounces)
²Three Zone (Front and Rear Units) - 1.31 kilo-
grams (2.88 pounds or 46 ounces)
The procedure that follows should be used to deter-
mine whether the refrigerant system contains the
proper refrigerant charge. Symptoms of an improper
refrigerant charge (low) include: poor air conditioner
performance, fog emitted from the air conditioner
outlets, a hissing sound from the expansion valve/
evaporator area. There are two different methods
with which the refrigerant charge level may be
tested:
1. Using a DRBIIItscan tool, a thermocouple and
the Charge Determination Chart (Fig. 31). Refer to
the appropriate diagnostic information.
2. Using a manifold gauge set, a thermocouple and
the Charge Determination Chart (Fig. 31).
A temperature probe is required to measure liquid
line temperature. The clamp-on, Type K thermocou-
ple temperature probe used in this procedure is
available through the DaimlerChrysler Professional
Service Equipment (PSE) program. This probe (PSE
#66-324-0014 or #80PK-1A) is compatible with tem-
perature-measuring instruments that accept Type K
thermocouples, and have a miniature connector
input. Other temperature probes are available
through aftermarket sources; however, all references
in this procedure will reflect the use of the probe
made available through the PSE program.
In order to use the temperature probe, a digital
thermometer will also be required. If a digital ther-
mometer is not available, an adapter is available
through the PSE program that will convert any stan-
dard digital multimeter into a digital thermometer.
This adapter is designed to accept any standard Type
RSPLUMBING - FRONT24-85
RECEIVER/DRIER (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com

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 con-
tains a different additive package. The 10S20H com-
pressor used in this vehicle are designed to use an
ND-8 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 min-
eral 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 con-
tainer immediately to prevent moisture contamina-
tion.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT OIL
LEVEL
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).
When an air conditioning system is assembled at
the factory, all components except the compressor are
refrigerant oil free. After the refrigerant system has
been charged and operated, the refrigerant oil in the
compressor is dispersed throughout the refrigerant
system. The receiver/drier, 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 leakfrom 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 an receiver/
drier, evaporator or condenser is replaced. See the
Refrigerant Oil Capacities chart for the proper
amount of refrigerant oil to add. 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 fresh new
refrigerant oil that was drained out of the old com-
pressor.
REFRIGERANT OIL CAPACITIES
Front A/C Front & Rear
A/C
COMPONENT ml fl oz ml fl oz
Total System Fill 140 5.0 180 6.43
Filter-Drier 25 0.9 25 0.9
Condenser 25 0.9 25 0.9
Front Evaporator 50 1.8 50 1.8
Rear Evap. (including
underbody lines)N/A N/A 50 1.8
Compressor Drain and measure the oil
from the old compressor -
See text above.
SUCTION LINE
REMOVAL
The front air conditioner suction line includes the
low side service port on a section of tubing located
near the compressor. On models equipped with the
optional rear air conditioner, the front air conditioner
suction line also includes a suction line hose and
tube extension that connects the front suction line to
the suction line for the rear air conditioner.
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-
24 - 90 PLUMBING - FRONTRS
ProCarManuals.com

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) Position the suction line into the engine com-
partment.
(2) Remove the tape or plugs from the suction line
and liquid line fittings and both expansion valve
ports.
(3) Lubricate new rubber O-ring seals with clean
refrigerant oil and install them on the suction line
and liquid line fittings.
(4) Reconnect the liquid line and suction line fit-
tings to the expansion valve.
(5) Install and tighten the nut that secures the
suction line and liquid line fittings to the expansion
valve. Tighten the nut to 23 N´m (17 ft. lbs.).
(6) Engage the retainer that secures the suction
line routing clip to the filter-drier mounting bracket
on the side of the right front strut tower in the
engine compartment. (If Equipped).
(7) Remove the tape or plugs from the compressor
suction port and the suction line fitting.
(8) Lubricate a new rubber O-ring seal with clean
refrigerant oil and install it on the suction line fit-
ting.
(9) Install a new dual plan seal and reconnect the
suction line fitting to the compressor suction port.
(10) Install and tighten the nut that secures the
suction line fitting to the compressor. Tighten the nut
to 23 N´m (17 ft. lbs.).
(11) Reconnect the drain tube to the wiper module
drain on the right side of the engine compartment.
(12) Reinstall the air cleaner top cover and snorkel
onto the air cleaner housing located on the right side
of the engine compartment.
(13) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
(14) If the vehicle is equipped with the optional
rear air conditioner, go to Step 15. If the vehicle does
not have the optional rear air conditioner, go to Step
21.
(15) Raise and support the vehicle.
(16) Remove the tape or plugs from the suction
line extension fitting and the underbody suction line
fitting.
(17) Lubricate a new rubber O-ring seal with clean
refrigerant oil and install it on the underbody suction
line fitting.
(18) Reconnect the suction line extension fitting to
the underbody suction line fitting. Tighten the fit-
tings to 23 N´m (17 ft. lbs.).
(19) Install a new tie strap just forward of the con-
nections between the underbody plumbing and theengine compartment plumbing for the rear heater
and air conditioner.
(20) Lower the vehicle.
(21) Evacuate the refrigerant system. (Refer to 24
- HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
FRONT/REFRIGERANT - STANDARD PROCE-
DURE - REFRIGERANT SYSTEM EVACUATE).
(22) Charge the refrigerant system. (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
FRONT/REFRIGERANT - STANDARD PROCE-
DURE - REFRIGERANT SYSTEM CHARGE).
SERVICE PORTS
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)
and (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - FRONT - CAUTION - A/C PLUMBING).
(1) Remove the protective cap from the A/C service
port (Fig. 36).
(2) Recover the refrigerant from the refrigerant
system. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING/PLUMBING - FRONT/REFRIGERANT -
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT
RECOVERY).
(3) Using a standard Schrader-type valve core tool,
remove the valve core from the A/C service port (Low
Fig. 36 A/C Service Port - Typical
1 - RIGHT FRONT STRUT TOWER
2 - CONNECTOR
3 - A/C PRESSURE TRANSDUCER
4 - RIGHT WIPER MODULE DRAIN TUBE
5 - HIGH SIDE SERVICE PORT
6 - LIQUID LINE
24 - 92 PLUMBING - FRONTRS
SUCTION LINE (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com