HVAC Systems (Service Information): Plumbing: Accumulator-A/C: Installation

NOTE: If the A/C accumulator is being replaced, add 30 milliliters (1 fluid ounce) of refrigerant oil to the refrigerant system. Use only refrigerant oil of the type recommended for the A/C compressor in the vehicle.

NOTE: The accumulator tubes are serviced separately from the A/C accumulator.

NOTE: Replacement of the refrigerant line O-ring seals is required anytime a refrigerant line is opened. Failure to replace the rubber O-ring seals could result in a refrigerant system leak.

Fig 1: Accumulator And Accumulator Tubes (LHD Shown, RHD Similar)

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

1. Remove the tape or plugs from all of the opened refrigerant line fittings and the accumulator and evaporator ports.
2. Lubricate new rubber O-ring seals with clean refrigerant oil and install them and any gaskets onto the refrigerant line and tube fittings. Use only the specified O-rings as they are made of a special material for the R-134a system. Use only refrigerant oil of the type recommended for the A/C compressor in the vehicle.
3. Connect the accumulator tubes (4) onto the A/C accumulator (10) and install the two retaining bolts (5). Tighten the bolts to 11 N.m (100 in. lbs.).
4. Position the A/C accumulator and the accumulator tubes into the engine compartment as an assembly.
5. Connect the accumulator tube block (4) to the evaporator tube tapping block (7) and install the two retaining bolts (9). Tighten the bolts to 11 N.m (100 in. lbs.).
6. Install the bolt (11) that secures the A/C accumulator to the frame rail (8). Tighten the bolt to 11 N.m (100 in. lbs.).
7. Connect the A/C suction line (1) and the A/C liquid line (2) to the accumulator tubes and install the retaining nuts (3). Tighten the nuts to 20 N.m (180 in. lbs.).
8. Install the A/C low pressure switch (6) onto the A/C accumulator using a new O-ring seal. Hand-tighten the switch securely and connect the wire harness connector (12) to the switch.
9. If equipped, reinstall the vehicle speed control servo, (Refer to ELECTRICAL/SPEED CONTROL/SERVO - INSTALLATION) .
10. Reconnect the negative battery cable.
11. Evacuate the refrigerant system, (Refer to REFRIGERANT SYSTEM EVACUATE) .
12. Charge the refrigerant system, (Refer to REFRIGERANT SYSTEM CHARGE) .