Refrigerant Filter: Service and Repair
REFRIGERANT SYSTEM FILTERINGVehicles that have an inoperative A/C compressor, due to internal causes, should have the refrigerant system cleaned by flushing or filtering. This removes any debris or contaminants that may be present in order to prevent damage to the replacement A/C compressor.
System flushing is the preferred method of cleaning. However, if flushing equipment is not available, system filtering may be performed as an alternative.
A filter kit should be installed in the refrigerant system prior to the installation of the replacement A/C compressor. The pancake filter supplied with each kit should be temporarily installed in the liquid line between the A/C condenser core and the A/C evaporator core orifice. The suction filter supplied with each kit should be permanently installed in the suction line between the suction accumulator/drier and the A/C compressor. The kit used is F2VY-19E773-C Filter Kit for systems with a nylon-lined suction hose. Install the replacement A/C compressor and the filters as outlined in the following procedure:
CAUTION: Follow all refrigerant system safety and service precautions.
1. Before removing any refrigerant system components, recover the system refrigerant following the refrigerant recovery procedure.
2. Remove the suction accumulator/drier assembly and drain the oil into a calibrated container.
NOTE: Due to the internal design of the suction accumulator/drier, it will be necessary to drill two 13 mm (0.5 inch) holes in the suction accumulator/drier cylinder to drain the oil.
3. Install a new suction accumulator/drier and add new Motorcraft YN-12b refrigerant oil or equivalent meeting Ford specification WSH-M1C231-B to replace the old oil. The quantity of new oil to be added is the amount to match that drained from the old suction accumulator/drier plus 60 ml (2 ounces).
4. Install a new A/C evaporator core orifice. If the A/C evaporator core orifice is located in the liquid line between the A/C condenser core and the A/C evaporator core, replace the liquid line assembly or install an A/C Evaporator Core Orifice Replacement Kit.
5. Temporarily install the pancake filter in the liquid line between the A/C condenser core and the A/C evaporator core orifice. Be sure the filter inlet is toward the A/C condenser core. Connections can be made using Rotunda A/C Test Fitting Set 014-00333 or equivalent, and a flexible refrigerant hose of 17,238 kPa (2500 psi) burst rating. Individual fittings are also available
6. Remove the old A/C compressor and drain the oil into a calibrated container,
7. New service replacement A/C compressors are shipped without compressor oil. If the amount of oil drained from the removed A/C compressor is between 85-142 ml (3-5 ounces), pour the same amount plus 30 ml (1 ounce) of clean refrigerant oil into the new A/C compressor. If the amount of oil drained from the old A/C compressor is greater than 142 ml (5 ounces), pour the same amount drained of clean refrigerant oil into the new A/C compressor. If the amount of refrigerant oil drained from the old A/C compressor is less than 85 ml (3 ounces), pour 85 ml (3 ounces) of clean refrigerant oil into the new A/C compressor. Use Motorcraft YN-12b Refrigerant Oil or equivalent meeting Ford specification WSH-M1C231-B.
NOTE: It will be necessary to transfer the magnetic A/C clutch from the old A/C compressor to the replacement A/C compressor.
8. Install the new A/C compressor.
9. Install the suction filter in the suction hose close to the compressor. These filters have two grooves in the end tubes to accommodate 0-ring seals.
10. Install 0-ring seals, Part No. 19E772 (two on each filter tube).
Orifice Tube Location:
11. Remove a length of suction hose (close to the compressor end) to accommodate the suction filter and install the filter, using A/C hose clamps (Part No. D2AZ-19B679-A). Be sure the filter is correctly oriented for the refrigerant system flow. Check the label on the filter. The size 12 clamps must be positioned over the O-ring seals on the end tubes and tightened to 6.2 Nm (54 in lb).
12. Evacuate and charge the system.
13. Check all refrigerant system hoses, lines, and the positioning of the newly installed filters to be sure they do not interfere with the other engine compartment components. Use tie straps to make adjustments (if necessary).
14. Set the A/C control on MAX A/C, high blower, and temperature control at full cold. Start the engine and let it idle briefly. Make sure the A/C system is operating properly.
15. Gradually bring the engine up to 1200 rpm by running it at lower rpms for short periods (first at 800 rpm then at 1000 rpm). Set the engine at 1200 rpm and run it for an hour with the A/C system operating.
16. Stop the engine.
17. Recover the refrigerant from the A/C system.
18. Allow the engine to cool sufficiently to remove the fittings, flexible hoses, and pancake filter from the liquid line.
19. Discard the pancake filter. It can be used only once.
20. Reconnect the liquid line back into the system.
21. Evacuate, charge, and leak test the system. Make any necessary adjustments.
22. Check the operation of the system in all control function selector positions.