Condenser HVAC: Service and Repair

WARNING: REVIEW THE WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS BEFORE PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING OPERATION.

Air Seals - Typical:

CAUTION: Before removing the condenser, note the location of each of the radiator and condenser air seals. These seals are used to direct air through the condenser and radiator. The air seals must be reinstalled in their proper locations in order for the air conditioning and engine cooling systems to perform as designed.

REMOVAL
1. Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable.
2. Recover the refrigerant from the refrigerant system.
3. Remove the screws attaching the grille and headlamp mounting module to the upper crossmember of the vehicle.
4. Remove the headlamps from their mounts.
5. Remove the nuts that secure the hood latch and brace to the upper crossmember.
6. The radiator upper crossmember can be adjusted left or right through the use of its slotted mounting holes. Before removal, mark the original position of the crossmember.

Condenser Mounting - Typical:

7. Remove the bolts that secure the radiator to the upper crossmember and set it aside.
8. Remove the engine air filter inlet duct secured at the headlamp mounting module.
9. Remove the headlamp mounting module and front fascia for access to the condenser and fittings.
10. Disconnect the discharge line and liquid line refrigerant line fittings from the condenser. Install plugs in, or tape over all of the opened refrigerant line fittings.
11. Remove the bolts that secure the upper condenser and transmission cooler.
12. Carefully lift the condenser out of the vehicle.

INSTALLATION
For installation, reverse the above procedures.
- Carefully position the condenser in the vehicle.
- Remove the tape or plugs from the refrigerant line fittings on the discharge line, liquid line and the condenser. Connect both of the refrigerant line couplers to the condenser.
- Evacuate and charge the refrigerant system.

NOTE: If the condenser is 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 vehicle.