lock MERCEDES-BENZ SPRINTER 2006 Service Manual

(3) Remove the gasket located at the A/C evapora-
tor and heater core tubes and the gasket that seals
the ventilation housing to the HVAC housing (Fig. 9).
(4) Remove the 12 screws that secure the two
housing halves together.
(5) Seperate the two housing halves.
(6) Remove the heater core from the lower hous-
ing.
(7) Remove the wire harness.
(8) Remove the three heater core tube retaining
bolts and the heater core tube assembly from the
heater core.
(9) Remove the heater core tube seals and discard.
(10) Install plug in, or tape over the opened heater
core fittings.
(11) Remove the A/C evaporator from the lower
housing.
ASSEMBLY
(1) Install the A/C evaporator into the lower hous-
ing.
(2) Remove the tape or plugs from the heater core
fittings.(3) Lubricate two new rubber O-ring seals with
clean engine coolant and install them onto the heater
core fitting.
(4) Connect the heater core tube assembly to the
heater core and install the three retaining bolts.
Tighten the bolts to 5 N´m (45 in. lbs.).
(5) Install the wire harness.
(6) Install the heater core into the lower housing.
(7) Install the two housing halves together.
(8) Install the 12 screws that secure the two hous-
ing halves together. Tighten the screws to 2 N´m (17
in. lbs.).
(9) Install the gasket for the A/C evaporator and
heater core tube outlets and the gasket that seals the
ventilation housing to the HVAC housing.
(10) Install the HVAC housing (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/DISTRIBUTION/
HVAC HOUSING - INSTALLATION).
INSTALLATION
NOTE: High pressures are produced in the refriger-
ant system when the A/C compressor is operating.
Extreme care must be exercised to make sure that
each of the refrigerant system connections is pres-
sure-tight and leak free.
(1) Position the HVAC housing to the dash panel.
Be certain that the evaporator condensate drain tube
is positioned correctly.
(2) Install the screws that secure the HVAC hous-
ing to the dash panel. Tighten the screws to 4.5 N´m
(40 in. lbs.).
(3) Connect the HVAC housing wire harness con-
nectors and install the wiring harness to the bracket.
(4) Connect the A/C-heater control cables to the
mode door levers (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR
CONDITIONING/CONTROLS/MODE DOOR CABLE
- INSTALLATION).
(5) Reinstall the passenger airbag bracket (Refer
to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/PASSENGER
AIRBAG - INSTALLATION).
(6) Reconnect the two bulkhead ground connection
near the instrument cluster area.
(7) Reinstall the defroster, floor distribution and
instrument panel ducts.
(8) Reinstall the instrument panel (Refer to 23 -
BODY/INSTRUMENT PANEL/INSTRUMENT
PANEL ASSEMBLY - INSTALLATION).
(9) Unplug or remove the tape from the opened
refrigerant line fittings.
(10) Lubricate two new rubber O-ring seals with
clean refrigerant oil and install them onto the evap-
orator core fittings.
(11) Connect the refrigerant line terminal block to
the evaporator tubes.
Fig. 9 HVAC Housing
1 - SCREW (12)
2 - UPPER HOUSING
3 - A/C EVAPORATOR
4 - EVAPORATOR O-RING SEAL (2)
5 - EVAPORATOR GASKET
6 - VENTILATION HOUSING GASKET
7 - LOWER HOUSING
8 - WIRING HARNESS
9 - BOLT (3)
10 - HEATER CORE
11 - HEATER CORE TUBE ASSEMBLY
12 - HEATER CORE TUBE GASKET
13 - HEATER CORE TUBE O-RING SEAL (2)
24 - 50 DISTRIBUTION - FRONTVA

(12) Install the two bolts that secure the refriger-
ant line terminal block to the A/C evaporator.
Tighten the bolts to 5 N´m (45 in. lbs.).
(13) Unplug or remove the tape from the heater
core hoses and tubes.
(14) Connect the heater hoses to the heater core
tubes and install the heater hose clamps.
(15) Install the ventilation housing to the dash
panel.
(16) Install the nuts and washers that secure the
ventilation housing to the dash panel. Tighten the
nuts to 5 N´m (45 in. lbs.).
(17) Connect the wire harness connectors to the
blower motor, blower motor resistor block and the
recirculation door actuator.
(18) Connect the vacuum harness connector to the
recirculation door actuator.
(19) Install the air filter into the ventilation hous-
ing (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITION-
ING/DISTRIBUTION/AIR FILTER -
INSTALLATION).
(20) Install the windshield washer reservoir (Refer
to 8 - ELECTRICAL/WIPERS/WASHERS/WASHER
RESERVOIR - INSTALLATION).
(21) Install the air cleaner housing (Refer to 9 -
ENGINE/AIR INTAKE SYSTEM/AIR CLEANER
HOUSING - INSTALLATION).
(22) Reconnect the negative battery cable.
(23) If the heater core is being replaced, flush the
cooling system (Refer to 7 - COOLING - STANDARD
PROCEDURE - COOLING SYSTEM CLEANING/
REVERSE FLUSHING).
(24) Refill the engine cooling system (Refer to 7 -
COOLING/ENGINE/COOLANT - STANDARD PRO-
CEDURE - COOLANT SYSTEM FILL).
(25) Evacuate the refrigerant system (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT SYS-
TEM EVACUATE).
(26) Charge the refrigerant system (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT SYS-
TEM CHARGE).
INSTRUMENT PANEL DUCTS
REMOVAL
(1) Remove the instrument panel (Refer to 23 -
BODY/INSTRUMENT PANEL/INSTRUMENT
PANEL ASSEMBLY - REMOVAL).
(2) Remove the defroster ducts (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/DISTRIBUTION/
DEFROSTER DUCTS - REMOVAL).
(3) Remove the floor distribution ducts (Refer to 24
- HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/DISTRIBU-
TION/FLOOR DISTRIBUTION DUCTS -
REMOVAL).(4) If removing the right instrument panel duct,
remove the passenger air bag module and bracket
(Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/PASSEN-
GER AIRBAG - REMOVAL).
(5) Remove the screws that secure the left and/or
right instrument panel duct and remove the duct(s)
as required (Fig. 10).
INSTALLATION
(1) Connect the instrument panel duct(s) to the
heater housing as required.
(2) Install the instrument panel duct retaining
screws. Tighten the screws to 2 N´m (17 in. lbs.).
(3) If servicing the right instrument panel duct,
install the passenger air bag module and bracket
(Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/PASSEN-
GER AIRBAG - INSTALLATION).
(4) Install the floor distribution ducts (Refer to 24
- HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/DISTRIBU-
TION/FLOOR DISTRIBUTION DUCTS - INSTAL-
LATION).
(5) Install the defroster ducts (Refer to 24 - HEAT-
ING & AIR CONDITIONING/DISTRIBUTION/DE-
FROSTER DUCTS - INSTALLATION).
(6) Install the instrument panel (Refer to 23 -
BODY/INSTRUMENT PANEL/INSTRUMENT
PANEL ASSEMBLY - INSTALLATION).
Fig. 10 Instrument Panel Duct - RH Shown, LH
Typical
1 - RH DEFROSTER DUCT
2 - SCREW (2)
3 - RH INSTRUMENT PANEL DUCT
4 - RH FLOOR DISTRIBUTION DUCT
5 - CENTER FLOOR DISTRIBUTION DUCT
VADISTRIBUTION - FRONT 24 - 51

DISTRIBUTION - REAR
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
A/C CONDENSER COVER
REMOVAL.............................52
INSTALLATION.........................52
A/C CONDENSER HOUSING
REMOVAL.............................52
INSTALLATION.........................54
A/C EVAPORATOR COVER
REMOVAL.............................55
INSTALLATION.........................55A/C EVAPORATOR HOUSING
REMOVAL.............................55
INSTALLATION.........................57
AIR FILTER
REMOVAL.............................58
INSTALLATION.........................58
BLOWER MOTOR
REMOVAL.............................58
INSTALLATION.........................59
A / C CONDENSER COVER
REMOVAL
(1) Unlock the six quick-release fasteners by turn-
ing them 90 degrees in either direction (Fig. 1).
(2) Remove the rear A/C condenser cover from the
rear A/C condenser housing.
INSTALLATION
(1) Inspect the six rubber damping washers for
correct sealing. Replace the washers as required.
(2) Position the rear A/C condenser cover over the
rear A/C condenser housing.
(3) Lock the six quick-release fasteners by turning
them 90 degrees in either direction.
A / C CONDENSER HOUSING
REMOVAL
WARNING: Refer to the applicable warnings and
cautions for this system before performing the fol-
lowing operation (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR
CONDITIONING/PLUMBING - WARNINGS) and (Refer
to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
CAUTIONS). Failure to follow the warnings and cau-
tions could result in possible personal injury or
death.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the negative battery
cable.
(2) Remove the air filter from the rear A/C evapo-
rator housing (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CON-
DITIONING/DISTRIBUTION - REAR/AIR FILTER -
REMOVAL).
(3) Recover the refrigerant from the rear refriger-
ant system (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING/PLUMBING - STANDARD PROCEDURE -
REFRIGERANT RECOVERY).
(4) Remove the cover from the rear A/C condenser
housing (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING/DISTRIBUTION - REAR/A/C CON-
DENSER COVER - REMOVAL).
(5) Disconnect the rear A/C wire harness from the
rear blower motor suppression filter and the rear A/C
high pressure switch (Fig. 2).
(6) Remove the retaining straps that secure the
rear A/C wire harness to the rear liquid line and
position the wire harness out of the way.
(7) Remove the screw and bracket that secures the
rear discharge line to the right side of the rear con-
denser housing.
(8) Disconnect the rear discharge line from the
rear A/C condenser and remove and discard the
O-ring seal.
Fig. 1 Rear A/C Condenser Cover
1 - QUICK-RELEASE FASTENER AND WASHER (6)
2 - RUBBER DAMPING WASHER (6)
3 - REAR CONDENSER COVER
4 - REAR A/C CONDENSER HOUSING
24 - 52 DISTRIBUTION - REARVA

(1) Disconnect and isolate the negative battery
cable.
(2) Remove the cover from the rear A/C evaporator
housing (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING/DISTRIBUTION - REAR/A/C EVAPORA-
TOR COVER-REAR - REMOVAL).
(3) Recover the refrigerant from the rear refriger-
ant system (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING/PLUMBING - STANDARD PROCEDURE -
REFRIGERANT RECOVERY).
(4) Remove the cover from the rear A/C condenser
housing (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING/DISTRIBUTION - REAR/A/C CON-
DENSER COVER - REMOVAL).
(5) Disconnect the rear A/C wire harness from the
rear condenser fan suppression filter and the rear
A/C high pressure switch and remove the retaining
straps that secure the wire harness to the rear liquid
line (Fig. 4).
(6) Disengage the rear A/C wire harness grommet
from the roof panel and pull the wire harness down
into the vehicle (Fig. 5).
(7) Disconnect the rear body wire harness connec-
tor from the rear A/C wire harness.
(8) Remove the retaining straps that secure the
rear dome lamp harness to the rear A/C evaporator
housing and position the rear dome lamp harness out
of the way.
(9) Remove the nut that secures the positive wire
lead to the rear A/C system terminal block and posi-
tion the wire lead out of the way.
(10) Remove the insulating tape from around the
rear evaporator connections.(11) Disconnect the rear liquid line from the rear
A/C expansion valve and remove and discard the
O-ring seal.
(12) Disconnect the rear suction line from the rear
evaporator outlet tube and remove and discard the
O-ring seal.
(13) Install plugs into, or tape over the opened
refrigerant line fittings and rear expansion valve and
evaporator tube ports.
(14) Disconnect and install plugs into the two rear
evaporator drain hoses.
(15) Support the rear A/C evaporator housing and
remove the nine screws, four bolts and washers and
four damping washers that secure the rear A/C evap-
orator housing to the roof panel.
(16) With help from an assistant, remove the rear
A/C evaporator housing from the vehicle.
(17) If required, remove the rear A/C evaporator
from the rear A/C evaporator housing (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING/
REAR A/C EVAPORATOR - REMOVAL).
Fig. 4 Rear A/C Wire Harness - Condenser Side
1 - REAR CONDERSER FAN SUPPRESSION FILTER
2 - REAR A/C HIGH PRESSURE SWITCH
3 - REAR A/C WIRE HARNESS
4 - GROMMET
5 - RETAINING STRAPS
24 - 56 DISTRIBUTION - REARVA

(10) Lubricate a new O-ring seal with clean refrig-
erant oil and install it onto the rear suction line fit-
ting. Use only the specified O-ring seal as it is made
of a special material for the R-134a system. Use only
refrigerant oil of the type recommended for the rear
A/C compressor in the vehicle.
(11) Connect the rear suction line to the rear evap-
orator outlet tube. Tighten the suction line nut to 35
N´m (26 ft. lbs.).
(12) Install new insulating tape around the rear
evaporator connections.
(13) Install the positive wire lead onto the rear
A/C system terminal block and install the retaining
nut. Tighten the nut securely.
(14) Reposition the rear dome lamp harness and
install the retaining straps that secure the harness
to the rear A/C evaporator housing.
(15) Connect the rear A/C wire harness connector
to the rear body wire harness.
(16) Route the rear A/C wire harness up through
the roof panel and install the grommet.
(17) Connect the rear A/C wire harness to the rear
condenser fan suppression filter and the rear A/C
high pressure switch and install the retaining straps
that secure the wire harness to the rear liquid line.
(18) Reconnect the negative battery cable.
(19) Evacuate the rear refrigerant system (Refer to
24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING
- STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT SYS-
TEM EVACUATE).
(20) Charge the rear refrigerant system (Refer to
24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING
- STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT SYS-
TEM CHARGE).
(21) Install the cover onto the rear A/C evaporator
housing (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING/DISTRIBUTION - REAR/A/C EVAPORA-
TOR COVER-REAR - INSTALLATION).
(22) Install the cover onto the rear A/C condenser
housing (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING/DISTRIBUTION - REAR/A/C CON-
DENSER COVER - INSTALLATION).
AIR FILTER
REMOVAL
(1) Unlock the eight quick-release fasteners by
turning them 90 degrees counter clockwise (Fig. 6).
(2) Remove the rear air inlet grate from the rear
A/C evaporator cover.
(3) Remove the rear particulate air filter by disen-
gaging the velcro-type retainers.
(4) Carefully clean the rear particulate air filter
using compressed air.
INSTALLATION
NOTE: Replace the rear particulate air filter if it is
heavily soiled or damaged.
(1) Position the rear particulate air filter and
engage the velcro-type retainers.
(2) Install the rear air inlet grate onto the rear
A/C evaporator cover.
(3) Lock the eight quick-release fasteners by turn-
ing them 90 degrees clockwise.
BLOWER MOTOR
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the negative battery
cable.
(2) Remove the cover from the rear A/C evaporator
housing (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING/DISTRIBUTION - REAR/A/C EVAPORA-
TOR COVER-REAR - REMOVAL).
(3) Disconnect the wire harness connectors from
the rear blower motor suppression filter and from the
rear blower motor being serviced and remove the
suppression filter (Fig. 7).
(4) Remove the body sealer from around the rear
blower motor area being serviced.
(5) Remove the screws that secure each rear
blower motor to the rear evaporator housing and
remove blower motor.
Fig. 6 Rear Particulate Air Filter
1 - QUICK-RELEASE FASTENER (8)
2 - REAR A/C EVAPORATOR COVER
3 - REAR PARTICULATE AIR FILTER
4 - REAR AIR INLET GRATE
24 - 58 DISTRIBUTION - REARVA

REAR REFRIGERANT RESERVOIR
REMOVAL.............................95
INSTALLATION.........................95
REAR SUCTION LINE
DESCRIPTION.........................96
REMOVAL.............................96
INSTALLATION.........................98
REFRIGERANT LINE COUPLER
DESCRIPTION.........................98OPERATION...........................98
REMOVAL.............................99
INSTALLATION.........................99
UNDERBODY LINES
REMOVAL............................100
INSTALLATION........................102
PLUMBING
DESCRIPTION
The refrigerant lines and hoses are used to carry
the refrigerant between the various air conditioning
system components. A barrier hose design with a
nylon tube, which is sandwiched between rubber lay-
ers, is used for the R-134a air conditioning system on
this vehicle. This nylon tube helps to further contain
the R-134a refrigerant, which has a smaller molecu-
lar structure than R-12 refrigerant. The ends of the
refrigerant hoses are made from lightweight alumi-
num or steel, and commonly use braze-less fittings.
Any kinks or sharp bends in the refrigerant plumb-
ing will reduce the capacity of the entire air condi-
tioning system. Kinks and sharp bends reduce the
flow of refrigerant in the system. A good rule for the
flexible hose refrigerant lines is to keep the radius of
all bends at least ten times the diameter of the hose.
In addition, the flexible hose refrigerant lines should
be routed so they are at least 80 millimeters (3
inches) from the exhaust manifold.
OPERATION
High pressures are produced in the refrigerant sys-
tem when the air conditioning compressor is operat-
ing. Extreme care must be exercised to make sure
that each of the refrigerant system connections is
pressure-tight and leak free. It is a good practice to
inspect all flexible hose refrigerant lines at least once
a year to make sure they are in good condition and
properly routed.
The refrigerant lines and hoses cannot be repaired
and, if faulty or damaged, they must be replaced.
WARNINGS
WARNING: The A/C system contains refrigerant
under high pressure. Repairs should only be per-
formed by qualified service personnel. Severe per-
sonal injury or death may result from improper
service procedures.
WARNING: Avoid breathing the refrigerant and
refrigerant oil vapor or mist. Exposure may irritate
the eyes, nose, and/or throat. Wear eye protectionwhen servicing the A/C refrigerant system. Serious
eye injury can result from direct contact with the
refrigerant. If eye contact occurs, seek medical
attention immediately.
WARNING: Do not expose the refrigerant to open
flame. Poisonous gas is created when refrigerant is
burned. An electronic leak detector is recom-
mended. Severe personal injury or death may result
from improper service procedures.
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 suf-
focation and death.
WARNING: The evaporation rate of R-134a refriger-
ant at average temperature and altitude is extremely
high. As a result, anything that comes in contact
with the 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
combustible at elevated pressures. These mixtures
are potentially dangerous, and may result in fire or
explosion causing property damage, personal injury
or death.
WARNING: The engine cooling system is designed
to develop internal pressures of 97 to 123 kilopas-
cals (14 to 18 pounds per square inch). Do not
remove or loosen the coolant pressure cap, cylin-
der block drain plugs, radiator drain, radiator
hoses, heater hoses, or hose clamps while the
engine cooling system is hot and under pressure.
Allow the vehicle to cool for a minimum of 15 min-
utes before opening the cooling system for service.
Failure to observe this warning can result in seri-
ous burns from the heated engine coolant.
VAPLUMBING 24 - 61

CAUTIONS
CAUTION: Never add R-12 to a refrigerant system
designed to use R-134a. Do not use R-12 equipment
or parts on a R-134a A/C system. These refrigerants
are not compatible and damage to the A/C system
will result.
CAUTION: Never use R-12 refrigerant oil in a A/C
system designed to use R-134a refrigerant oil.
These refrigerant oils are not compatible and dam-
age to the A/C system will result.
CAUTION: The use of A/C system sealers may
result in damage to A/C refrigerant recovery/evacu-
ation/recharging equipment and/or A/C system.
Many federal, state/provincial and local regulations
prohibit the recharge of A/C systems with known
leaks. DaimlerChrysler recommends the detection
of A/C system leaks through the use of approved
leak detectors and fluorescent leak detection dyes.
Vehicles found with A/C system sealers should be
treated as contaminated and replacement of the
entire A/C refrigerant system is recommended. A/C
systems found to be contaminated with A/C system
sealers, A/C stop-leak products or seal conditioners
voids the warranty for the A/C system.
CAUTION: Recover the refrigerant before opening
any fitting or connection. Open the fittings with
caution, even after the system has been dis-
charged. Never open or loosen a connection before
recovering the refrigerant.
CAUTION: If equipped, do not remove the second-
ary retention clip from any spring-lock coupler con-
nection while the refrigerant system is under
pressure. Recover the refrigerant before removing
the secondary retention clip. Open the fittings with
caution, even after the system has been dis-
charged. Never open or loosen a connection before
recovering the refrigerant.
CAUTION: The internal parts of the A/C system will
remain stable as long as moisture-free refrigerant
and refrigerant oil is used. Abnormal amounts of
dirt, moisture or air can upset the chemical stability.
This may cause operational troubles or even seri-
ous damage if present in more than very small
quantities. Before disconnecting a component,
clean the outside of the fittings thoroughly to pre-
vent contamination from entering the refrigerant
system. Keep service tools and the work area clean.
Do not open the refrigerant system or uncap areplacement component until you are ready to ser-
vice the system. Immediately after disconnecting a
component from the refrigerant system, seal the
open fittings with a cap or plug. This will prevent
contamination from entering the A/C system.
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: Do not overcharge the refrigerant sys-
tem. Overcharging will cause excessive compressor
head pressure and can cause compressor noise
and A/C system failure.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
REFRIGERANT SYSTEM LEAKS
WARNING: R-134a service equipment or vehicle A/C
system should not be pressure tested or leak tested
with compressed air. Mixture of air and R-134a can
be combustible at elevated pressures. These mix-
tures are potentially dangerous and may result in
fire or explosion causing property damage, per-
sonal injury or death.
Avoid breathing A/C refrigerant and lubricant vapor
or mist. Exposure may irritate eyes, nose and
throat. Use only approved service equipment meet-
ing SAE requirements to discharge R-134a system.
If accidental system discharge occurs, ventilate
work area before resuming service.
If the A/C system is not cooling properly, determine
if the refrigerant system is fully charged with
R-134a. This is accomplished by performing a Refrig-
erant System Charge Level test (Refer to 24 - HEAT-
ING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - REFRIGERANT SYS-
TEM CHARGE LEVEL) or by completely evacuating
and recharging the A/C system. If the A/C liquid line
pressure is found to be less than 345 kPa (50 psi)
while performing the Refrigerant System Charge
Level test, proceed to the System Empty procedure
below. If liquid line pressure is found to be greater
than 345 kPa (50 psi), proceed to the System Low
procedure. If the refrigerant system is empty or low
in refrigerant charge, a leak at any line fitting or
component seal is likely. A review of the fittings,
lines and components for oily residue is an indication
of the leak location. To detect a leak in the refriger-
ant system, perform one of the following procedures
as indicated by the symptoms.
24 - 62 PLUMBINGVA

SYSTEM EMPTY
(1) Evacuate the refrigerant system to the lowest
degree of vacuum possible (approximately 28 in Hg.)
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIG-
ERANT SYSTEM EVACUATE). Determine if the
system holds a vacuum for 15 minutes. If vacuum is
held, a leak is probably not present. If system will
not maintain vacuum level, proceed to Step 2.
(2) Prepare and dispense 0.284 kilograms (10
ounces) of R-134a refrigerant into the evacuated
refrigerant system (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR
CONDITIONING/PLUMBING - STANDARD PRO-
CEDURE - REFRIGERANT SYSTEM CHARGE) and
proceed to Step 1 of the System Low procedure.
SYSTEM LOW
(1) Position the vehicle in a wind free work area.
This will aid in detecting small leaks.
(2) Operate the heating-A/C system with the
engine at idle under the following conditions for at
least five minutes.
²Doors or windows open
²Transmission in Park
²A/C-heater controls set to outside air, full cool,
panel mode, high blower and with A/C compressor
engaged
CAUTION: A leak detector only designed for R-12
refrigerant will not detect leaks in a R-134a refriger-
ant system.
(3) Shut the vehicle Off and wait 2-7 minutes.
Then use an electronic leak detector that is designed
to detect R-134a refrigerant and search for leaks. Fit-
tings, lines or components that appear to be oily usu-
ally indicate a refrigerant leak. To inspect the A/C
evaporator for leaks, insert the leak detector probe
into the drain tube opening or an air outlet. A dye for
R-134a is available to aid in leak detection. Use only
DaimlerChrysler approved refrigerant dye.
STANDARD PROCEDURE
REFRIGERANT SYSTEM SERVICE EQUIPMENT
WARNING: Eye protection must be worn when ser-
vicing an A/C refrigerant system. Turn off (rotate
clockwise) all valves on the equipment being used,
before connecting to or disconnecting from the
refrigerant system. Failure to observe these warn-
ings may result in possible personal injury.
WARNING: Refer to the applicable warnings and
cautions for this system before performing the fol-
lowing operation (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR
CONDITIONING/PLUMBING - WARNINGS) and (Referto 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
CAUTIONS). Failure to follow the warnings and cau-
tions could result in possible personal injury or
death.
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.
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
VAPLUMBING 24 - 63

(6) Remove the tape or plugs from the condenser
inlet port and the discharge line fitting.
(7) Lubricate a new rubber O-ring seal with clean
refrigerant oil and install it on the discharge line fit-
ting.
(8) Connect the discharge line fitting to the con-
denser inlet port.
(9) Install the nut that secures the discharge line
fitting to the condenser. Tighten the nut to 33 N´m
(24 ft. lbs.).
(10) Install the grille (Refer to 23 - BODY/EXTE-
RIOR/GRILLE - INSTALLATION).
(11) Evacuate the refrigerant system. (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT SYS-
TEM EVACUATE)
(12) Charge the refrigerant system. (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT SYS-
TEM CHARGE)
(13) Reconnect the negative battery cable.
A/CEVAPORATOR
DESCRIPTION
The A/C evaporator for the heating-A/C system is
located within the HVAC housing, behind the instru-
ment panel (Fig. 8). The A/C evaporator is positioned
within the HVAC housing so that all air entering the
housing must pass over the evaporator fins before it
is distributed through the heating-A/C system ducts
and outlets. However, air passing over the evaporator
fins will only be conditioned when the A/C compres-
sor is engaged and circulating refrigerant through
the A/C evaporator.
The A/C evaporator tubes are connected and sealed
to the A/C expansion valve by use of rubber O-rings
and a tapping block.
The A/C evaporator is serviced by removing and
disassembling the HVAC housing.
OPERATION
Refrigerant enters the evaporator from the expan-
sion valve as a low-temperature, low-pressure liquid.
As air flows over the fins of the evaporator, the
humidity in the air condenses on the fins, and the
heat from the air is absorbed by the refrigerant. Heat
absorption causes the refrigerant to boil and vapor-
ize. The refrigerant becomes a low-pressure gas
before it leaves the evaporator.
The evaporator cannot be repaired and, if faulty or
damaged, it must be replaced.
REMOVAL
WARNING: To avoid personal injury or death, on
vehicles equipped with airbags, disable the supple-
mental restraint system before attempting any
steering wheel, steering column, airbag, seat belt
tensioner, impact sensor, or instrument panel com-
ponent diagnosis or service. Disconnect and isolate
the battery negative (ground) cable, then wait two
minutes for the system capacitor to discharge
before performing further diagnosis or service. This
is the only sure way to disable the supplemental
restraint system. Failure to take the proper precau-
tions could result in accidental airbag deployment.
Fig. 8 Front A/C Evaporator
1 - A/C EVAPORATOR
2 - EVAPORATOR TUBES
3 - TAPPING BLOCK
24 - 72 PLUMBINGVA

(3) Disconnect the condenser fan wire harness
from the condenser fan suppression filter (Fig. 22).
(4) Loosen the four bolts that secure the rear A/C
condenser fan to the top of the rear A/C condenser
housing.
(5) Rotate the rear A/C condenser fan counter-
clockwise and remove the fan from the top of the rear
A/C condenser housing.
INSTALLATION
(1) Position the rear A/C condenser fan to the top
of the rear A/C condenser housing.
(2) Rotate the rear A/C condenser fan clockwise to
engage the fan to the four retaining bolts. Tighten
the bolts to 12 N´m (106 in. lbs.).
(3) Connect the condenser fan wire harness to the
rear condenser fan suppression filter.
(4) Reconnect the negative battery cable.
(5) Install the cover onto the rear A/C condenser
housing (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING/DISTRIBUTION - REAR/A/C CON-
DENSER COVER - INSTALLATION).
REARA/CEVAPORATOR
REMOVAL
WARNING: Refer to the applicable warnings and
cautions for this system before performing the fol-
lowing operation (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR
CONDITIONING/PLUMBING - WARNINGS) and (Refer
to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
CAUTIONS). Failure to follow the warnings and cau-tions could result in possible personal injury or
death.
(1) Remove the rear A/C evaporator housing and
place it on a workbench (Refer to 24 - HEATING &
AIR CONDITIONING/DISTRIBUTION - REAR/
REAR A/C EVAPORATOR HOUSING - REMOVAL).
(2) Remove the five screws and washers that
secure the condensate drain pan to the bottom of the
rear A/C evaporator and remove the drain pan (Fig.
23).
(3) Remove the insulating tape from around the
area of the rear A/C expansion valve and disconnect
the expansion valve from the rear A/C evaporator
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING/REAR A/C EXPANSION VALVE -
REMOVAL).
(4) Remove the left blower motor from the rear
A/C evaporator housing (Refer to 24 - HEATING &
AIR CONDITIONING/DISTRIBUTION - REAR/
BLOWER MOTOR - REMOVAL).
CAUTION: Be careful when drilling out rivets to pre-
vent damage to the rear A/C components.
(5) Remove the rivets that secure the three covers
to the rear A/C evaporator and remove the covers.
(6) Remove the four rivets that secure the rear A/C
evaporator the bottom of the rear A/C evaporator
housing and remove the evaporator.
Fig. 22 Rear A/C Condenser Fan
1 - REAR A/C CONDENSER FAN
2 - BOLT (4)
3 - REAR CONDENSER FAN SUPPRESSION FILTER
4 - FAN WIRE HARNESS CONNECTOR
5 - REAR A/C CONDENSER HOUSING
Fig. 23 Rear A/C Evaporator
1 - REAR A/C EVAPORATOR HOUSING
2 - RIVET (12)
3 - COVERS
4 - REAR A/;C EVAPORATOR
5 - SCREW AND WASHER (5)
6 - CONDENSATE DRAIN PAN
24 - 84 PLUMBINGVA