Receiver Dryer: Description and Operation
Filter-DrierA single filter-drier unit is used for both the front-only A/C system, and for the combined front and rear A/C system. The filter-drier is mounted on the right side of the engine compartment in front of the heater-A/C housing. It is located in the liquid line between the condenser outlet and the evaporator inlet. Refrigerant enters the filter-drier as a high-pressure, high-temperature liquid.
The filter-drier performs a filtering action to prevent foreign material in the refrigerant from contaminating 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 operation, the filter-drier acts as a reservoir to store surplus liquid refrigerant.
The filter-drier cannot be repaired. If the filter-drier is faulty or damaged, if the refrigerant system has been contaminated, or if the system has been left open to the atmosphere for an indeterminable period, it must be replaced.