Condenser HVAC: Service and Repair
CONDENSER-A/CREMOVAL
WARNING: REFER TO THE APPLICABLE WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS FOR THIS SYSTEM BEFORE PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING OPERATION AND FAILURE TO FOLLOW THE WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.
CAUTION: Before removing the A/C condenser, note the location of each of the radiator/condenser air seals. These air seals are used to direct air through the A/C condenser and radiator. The air seals must be reinstalled in their proper locations in order for the A/C and engine cooling systems to perform as designed.
1. Disconnect and isolate the negative battery cable.
2. Recover the refrigerant from the refrigerant system.
3. Remove the battery support strut.
4. Remove the nuts that secures the A/C liquid line (2) and the A/C discharge line (3) to the A/C condenser (1) and remove and discard the O-ring seals.
5. Install plug in, or tape over the opened refrigerant line fittings and the condenser ports.
6. Remove upper radiator mounts.
7. Remove the condenser retaining bolts.
8. Tilt the radiator (4) rearward and carefully remove the A/C condenser from the engine compartment.
INSTALLATION
NOTE:
- If the A/C 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 A/C compressor in the vehicle.
- Replacement of the refrigerant line O-ring seals is required anytime a refrigerant line is opened. Failure to replace the rubber O-ring seals could result in a refrigerant system leak.
1. Tilt the radiator (4) rearward and position the A/C condenser (1) into the front of the engine compartment and install the retaining bolts. Tighten the bolts to 4.5 N.m (40 in. lbs.).
2. Install the upper radiator mounts.
3. Remove the tape or plug from the refrigerant line fittings and the condenser ports.
4. Lubricate new rubber O-ring seals with clean refrigerant oil and install them onto the refrigerant line fittings. Use only the specified O-rings as they are made of a special material for the R-134a system. Use only refrigerant oil of the type recommended for the A/C compressor in the vehicle.
5. Connect the A/C liquid line (2) and the A/C discharge line (3) to the A/C condenser and install the retaining nuts. Tighten the nuts to 20 N.m (180 in. lbs.).
6. Install the battery support strut.
7. Reconnect the negative battery cable.
8. Evacuate the refrigerant system.
9. Charge the A/C system.