Condenser, A/C: Installation
Be certain to adjust the refrigerant oil level when servicing the A/C refrigerant system. Failure to properly adjust the refrigerant oil level will prevent the A/C system from operating as designed and can cause serious A/C compressor damage.
When replacing multiple A/C system components, see the Refrigerant Oil Capacities chart to determine how much oil should be added to the refrigerant system. Refer to STANDARD PROCEDURE .
If the A/C condenser 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.
Replacement of the dual plain seals is required anytime a refrigerant line is disconnected from the A/C condenser. Failure to replace the seals may result in a refrigerant system leak.
Be certain that both air dams are correctly installed. These air dams are required for proper A/C and engine cooling system operation.
- Position the A/C condenser (4) to the front of the radiator and engage the two retaining tabs (2 and 3).
- Install the two bolts (1 and 5) that secure the right end of the A/C condenser to the radiator. Tighten the bolts to 2.2 N.m (20 in. lbs.).
- Remove the tape or plugs from the opened refrigerant line fittings and the condenser ports.
- Lubricate new dual plain seals with clean refrigerant oil and install them onto the refrigerant line fittings. Use only the specified seals 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.
- Engage the A/C liquid line to the A/C discharge line and connect the lines to the A/C condenser tapping block.
- Install the retaining bolt (2). Tighten the bolt to 14 N.m (10 ft. lbs.).
- Position the upper and lower air dams (1 and 4) to the front of the A/C condenser and radiator and engage the retaining tabs.
- Install the two screws (2 and 6) that secure the upper air dam to the radiator. Tighten the screws securely.
- Install the three screws (3 and 5) that secure the lower air dam to the radiator. Tighten the screws securely.
- Install the front bumper beam.
- Install the battery coolant radiator. Refer to RADIATOR, BATTERY COOLANT, INSTALLATION .
- Evacuate the refrigerant system. Refer to STANDARD PROCEDURE .
- If the A/C condenser is being replaced, add 30 milliliters (1 fluid ounce) of refrigerant oil to the refrigerant system. When replacing multiple A/C system components, see the Refrigerant Oil Capacities chart to determine how much oil should be added to the refrigerant system. Refer to STANDARD PROCEDURE . Use only refrigerant oil of the type recommended for the A/C compressor in the vehicle.
- Charge the refrigerant system. Refer to STANDARD PROCEDURE .
- Power up the high-voltage system. Refer to 12 VOLT POWER UP .
- Connect the 12-volt negative battery cable.
- Install the electric motor trim cover.