Accumulator HVAC: Service and Repair

REMOVAL

WARNING: REVIEW THE WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS IN THE FRONT OF THIS SECTION BEFORE PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING OPERATION.

1. Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable.
2. Recover the refrigerant from the refrigerant system.

Fig. 9 A/C Accumulator:

3. Loosen the fasteners that secure the accumulator and support bracket to the dash panel.
4. Disconnect the suction line refrigerant line fitting from the accumulator outlet. Install plugs in, or tape over all of the opened refrigerant line fittings.
5. Disconnect the accumulator inlet refrigerant line fitting from the evaporator outlet. Install plugs in, or tape over all of the opened refrigerant line fittings.
6. Remove the accumulator assembly from the engine compartment.

INSTALLATION

WARNING: REVIEW THE WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS IN THE FRONT OF THIS SECTION BEFORE PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING OPERATION.

1. Install the accumulator to the bulkhead but do not tighten yet.
2. Remove the tape or plugs from the refrigerant line fittings on the accumulator inlet and the evaporator outlet. Connect the accumulator inlet refrigerant line coupler to the evaporator outlet.
3. Remove the tape or plugs from the refrigerant line fittings on the suction line and the accumulator outlet. Connect the suction line refrigerant line coupler to the accumulator outlet.
4. Tighten the accumulator fasteners to 4.5 Nm (40 in. lbs.).
5. Connect the battery negative cable.
6. Evacuate the refrigerant system.
7. Charge the refrigerant system.

NOTE: If the accumulator is replaced, add 60 milliliters (2 fluid ounces) of refrigerant oil to the refrigerant system. Use only refrigerant oil of the type recommended for the compressor in the vehicle.