Contaminants Removed From Refrigerant Circuit

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2016 Volkswagen Beetle, 2015 Volkswagen Beetle, 2014 Volkswagen Beetle, and 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The reservoir/receiver/dryer or dryer bag/cartridge should not be replaced under the following conditions.

After an accident when there is no damage on the reservoir/receiver/dryer.
The repair was done quickly (not beyond the normal repair time) and no moisture has entered. The vehicle is not older than 5 years.

The reservoir/receiver/dryer or dryer cartridge should be replaced under the following conditions.

The refrigerant circuit was opened and the vehicle is older than 5 years.
The refrigerant circuit has been opened for an indefinite period of time (slow leak).
The repair exceeded the normal repair time and moisture has entered.
Always replace the receiver/dryer or dryer cartridge after flushing with compressed air, nitrogen or refrigerant R134a. Leave original parts in their packaging as long as possible to minimize the amount of moisture they absorb.
The A/C compressor has locked up.
The reservoir/receiver/dryer is damaged (accident).

-- Discharge the refrigerant circuit.

-- Remove the A/C compressor.

-- Rectify cause of trouble.

-- Examine expansion valve for dirt or corrosion; replace if necessary.

-- Remove oil drain plug from A/C compressor.

-- To accelerate drainage of refrigerant oil, rotate compressor e.g. by way of ribbed belt pulley/clutch plate of A/C clutch for example.

-- Pour old refrigerant oil out of A/C compressor. Handling refrigerant oil.

-- Then fill compressor with quantity of fresh refrigerant oil corresponding to quantity of refrigerant oil in original part compressor, refer to DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION .

NOTE:

Which refrigerant oils and quantities are used for the various compressors, refer to DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION .

To ensure the compressor is lubricated at start-up, at least 80 cm³ of refrigerant oil must be poured into the compressor. The remainder can be added to the new reservoir or receiver/dryer, refer to DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION .

If dirt has penetrated into the compressor with the refrigerant circuit open (for example after an accident), compressor is to be replaced.

-- Replace receiver/dryer or accumulator and restrictor.

-- Assemble, evacuate and charge the refrigerant circuit.