Receiver Dryer: Description and Operation
RECEIVER/DRIERNOTE: Installation of a new receiver/drier desiccant bag is not required when repairing the A/C system, except when there is physical evidence of contamination from a failed A/C compressor or damage to the receiver/drier desiccant bag. Damage to the receiver/drier desiccant bag includes physical damage to the receiver/drier desiccant bag or moisture contamination. Moisture contamination results only from a complete loss of refrigerant and equalization of the refrigerant system pressure with atmospheric pressure for a period longer than one hour. If even a slight amount of positive refrigerant pressure is present in the system before repairs are carried out, the receiver/drier desiccant bag should not be replaced.
The receiver/drier is integral to the A/C condenser. It stores high-pressure liquid refrigerant after it leaves the condenser core. A receiver/drier desiccant bag installed inside the receiver/drier removes any retained moisture from the refrigerant. The receiver/drier desiccant bag is a separate component and can be separately removed and installed with the A/C condenser removed from the vehicle.