Suction Accumulator

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Ford Pickup, 2003 Ford F550 Super Duty, 2003 Ford F450 Super Duty, and 2003 Ford Excursion. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

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

The suction accumulator is mounted on the A/C accumulator bracket to the right of the vehicle centerline. The inlet tube of the suction accumulator attaches directly to the A/C evaporator core outlet tube and the outlet tube of the suction accumulator attaches to the A/C manifold and tube.

After entering the inlet of the suction accumulator, heavier oil-laden refrigerant contacts an internally mounted dome (which serves as an umbrella) and drips down onto the bottom of the canister.

A small diameter oil bleed hole, in the bottom of the vapor return tube, allows the accumulated heavier liquid refrigerant and oil mixture to re-enter the compressor suction line at a controlled rate.
As the heavier mixture passes through the small diameter liquid bleed hole, it has a second chance to vaporize and recirculate through the A/C compressor without causing compressor damage due to slugging.
A fine mesh screened filter fits tightly around the bottom of the vapor return tube to filter out refrigerant system contaminant particles.
A desiccant bag is mounted inside the canister to absorb any moisture which may be in the refrigerant system.
A fitting located on the suction accumulator is used to attach the A/C cycling switch. A long-travel Schrader-type valve stem core is installed in the fitting so that the A/C cycling switch can be removed without discharging the A/C system.