Condenser HVAC: Service and Repair

A/C CORE REMOVAL / INSTALLATION

CAUTION: To prevent system contamination, whenever the condenser core is replaced, also replace the receiver/drier.

NOTE: If a condenser core leak is suspected, the condenser core must be leak tested before it is removed from the vehicle. See A/C EVAPORATOR/CONDENSER CORE - ON-VEHICLE LEAK TEST.

NOTE: Replacement of the suction accumulator is not required when repairing the air conditioning system except when there is physical evidence of system contamination from a failed A/C compressor or damage to the suction accumulator.

1. Recover the refrigerant. See A/C REFRIGERANT SYSTEM TESTS.
2. For vehicles with 2.3L or 4.0L engines, remove the air cleaner outlet tube and the engine air cleaner.




3. Disconnect the condenser to evaporator line from the condenser core.
- Discard the O-ring seal.




4. Disconnect the compressor manifold and tube assembly from the condenser core.
- Discard the O-ring seal.




5. Remove the screws and tilt the radiator back.




6. Remove the pin-type retainers and remove the top seal.

NOTE: It may be necessary to remove the radiator from the mounting saddles to provide clearance for the condenser core removal.




7. Remove the screws and the condenser core.
8. To install, reverse the removal procedure.
- Lubricate the refrigerant system with the correct amount of clean refrigerant oil. See A/C REFRIGERANT OIL ADDITION.
- Install new O-ring seals lubricated with clean refrigerant oil.

9. Evacuate, leak test, and charge the refrigerant system. See A/C REFRIGERANT SYSTEM TESTS.