BLOWER MOTOR AND WHEEL ASSEMBLY
VIBRATION AND/OR NOISE DIAGNOSIS
The blower speed switch, in conjunction with the
resistor block, supplies the blower motor with varied
voltage.
CAUTION: Stay clear of the blower motor and resis-
tor block (Hot). Do not operate the blower motor
with the resistor block removed from the heater A/C
housing.
Refer to the Blower Motor Vibration/Noise chart in
this section for diagnosis.
COMPRESSOR NOISE DIAGNOSIS
Excessive noise while the A/C is being used, can be
caused by loose mounts, loose clutch, or high operat-
ing pressure. Verify compressor drive belt condition,
proper refrigerant charge and head pressure before
compressor repair is performed.
If the A/C drive belt slips at initial start-up, it does
not necessarily mean the compressor has failed.
With the close tolerances of a compressor it is pos-
sible to experience a temporary lockup. The longer
the A/C system is inactive, the more likely the condi-
tion to occur.
This condition is the result of normal refrigerant
movement within the A/C system caused by temper-
ature changes. The refrigerant movement may wash
the oil out of the compressor.
COMPRESSOR CLUTCH/COIL
The air conditioning compressor clutch electrical
circuit is controlled by the Powertrain Control Mod-
ule. It is located in the engine compartment outboard
of the battery.If the compressor clutch does not engage verify
refrigerant charge.
If the compressor clutch still does not engage check
for battery voltage at the pressure transducer located
on the liquid line. If voltage is not detected, refer to:
²Group 8W, Wiring diagrams.
²Powertrain Diagnostic Procedures manual for
diagnostic information.
If voltage is detected at the pressure transducer,
connect pressure transducer and check for battery
voltage between the compressor clutch connector ter-
minals.
If voltage is detected, perform A/C Clutch Coil
Tests.
TESTS
(1) Verify battery state of charge. (Test indicator in
battery should be green).
(2) Connect an ampmeter (0-10 ampere scale) in
series with the clutch coil terminal. Use a voltmeter
(0-20 volt scale) with clip leads measuring voltage
across the battery and A/C clutch.
(3) With A/C control in A/C mode and blower at
low speed, start the engine and run at normal idle.
(4) The A/C clutch should engage immediately and
the clutch voltage should be within two volts of the
battery voltage. If the A/C clutch does not engage,
test the fuse.
(5) The A/C clutch coil is acceptable if the current
draw is 2.0 to 3.7 amperes at 11.5-12.5 volts at clutch
coil. This is with the work area temperature at 21ÉC
(70ÉF). If voltage is more than 12.5 volts, add electri-
cal loads by turning on electrical accessories until
voltage reads below 12.5 volts.
(6) If coil current reads zero, the coil is open and
should be replaced. If the ammeter reading is 4
amperes or more, the coil is shorted and should be
replaced. If the coil voltage is not within two volts of
the battery voltage, test clutch coil feed circuit for
excessive voltage drop.
EXPANSION VALVE
NOTE: Special effort must be used to keep all
R-134a system components moisture-free. Moisture
in the oil is very difficult to remove and will cause a
reliability problem with the compressor.
TESTS
NOTE: Expansion valve tests should be performed
after compressor tests.
Review Safety Precautions and Warnings in this
group. The work area and vehicle temperature must
A/C PRESSURE TRANSDUCER VOLTAGE
VOLTAGE CONDITION
0 TRANSDUCER FAULTY
OR NO VOLTAGE FROM
PCM
.150 TO .450 TRANSDUCER
GOOD/LOW PRESSURE
CUTOUT CONDITION
.451 TO 4.519 NORMAL OPERATING
CONDITION
4.520 TO 4.850 TRANSDUCER
GOOD/HIGH
PRESSURE CUTOUT
CONDITION
5 TRANSDUCER FAULTY
NSHEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING 24 - 13
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING (Continued)
TEMPERATURE CONTROL
If temperature cannot be adjusted with the TEMP
lever on the control panel, the following could require
service:
(1) Blend-air door binding.
(2) Faulty blend-air door motor.
(3) Improper engine coolant temperature.
(4) Faulty Instrument Panel Control.
SYSTEM CHARGE LEVEL TEST
The procedure below should be used to check
and/or fill the refrigerant charge in the air condition-
ing system.
NOTE: The amount of R134a refrigerant that the air
conditioning system holds is:
²Without rear A/C± .96 kg (34 oz. or 2.13 lbs.)
²With Rear A/C± 1.36 kg (48 oz. or 3.00 lbs.)
NOTE: Low Charge, condition may be described
as:
²Loss of A/C performance
²Fog from A/C outlets
²evaporator may have a HISS sound
There are two different ways the system can be
tested:
²With a scan tool (DRB), thermocouple and the
Charge Determination Graph. Use the scan tool
(DRB) diagnostic topic: Engine±System Monitors, A/C
Pressure.
²Using a manifold gauge set, a thermocouple and
the Charge Determination Graph.
It is recommended to use the gauges or reclaim/re-
cycle equipment.
WARNING: AVOID BREATHING A/C REFRIGERANT
AND LUBRICANT VAPOR OR MIST. EXPOSURE MAY
IRRITATE EYES, NOSE AND THROAT. USE ONLY
APPROVED SERVICE EQUIPMENT MEETING SAE
REQUIREMENTS TO DISCHARGE R-134a SYSTEM.
IF ACCIDENTAL SYSTEM DISCHARGE OCCURS,
VENTILATE WORK AREA BEFORE RESUMING SER-
VICE.
R-134a SERVICE EQUIPMENT OR VEHICLE A/C
SYSTEM SHOULD NOT BE PRESSURE TESTED OR
LEAK TESTED WITH COMPRESSED AIR. SOME
MIXTURES OF AIR/R-134a HAVE BEEN SHOWN TO
BE COMBUSTIBLE AT ELEVATED PRESSURES.
THESE MIXTURES ARE POTENTIALLY DANGER-
OUS AND MAY RESULT IN FIRE OR EXPLOSION
CAUSING INJURY OR PROPERTY DAMAGE.
(1) Establish your preferred method of measuring
liquid line pressure. Use a manifold gauge set or a
DRB scan tool.(2) Attach a clamp-on thermocouple (P.S.E. 66-324-
0014 or 80PK-1A) or equivalent to the liquid line. It
must be placed as close to the A/C Pressure Trans-
ducer as possible to observe liquid line temperature.
Refer to ªThermocouple Probeº in this section for
more information on probe.
(3) The vehicle must be in the following modes:
²Transaxle in Park
²Engine Idling at 700 rpm
²A/C Controls Set to Outside Air
²Panel Mode
²Full Cool
²High Blower motor, (vehicle equipped with rear
A/C turn rear blower motor ON HIGH)
²A/C Button in the ON position
²Vehicle Windows Open.
²Recirc. button turned OFF
(4) Operate system for a couple of minutes to allow
the system to stabilize.
(5) Set system pressure to about 1793 kPa (260
psi) by placing a piece of cardboard over part of the
front side of the condenser. To place cardboard prop-
erly, remove the upper radiator-condenser cover.
Insert cardboard between condenser and radiator
front. This will maintain a constant pressure.
(6) Observe Liquid Line pressure and Liquid line
temperature. Using theCharge Determination
Chartdetermine where the system is currently oper-
ating. If the system is in the undercharged region,
ADD 0.057 Kg. (2 oz.) to the system and recheck
readings. If the system is in the overcharged region,
RECLAIM 0.057 Kg. (2 oz.) from the system and
recheck readings. Continue this process until the sys-
tem readings are in the proper charge area on the
Charge Determination Chart.
(7) The same procedure can be performed using
the scan tool (DRB). To determine liquid line pres-
sure, attach the scan tool, go to System Moni-
tors±A/C Pressure. Observe liquid line pressure from
A/C Pressure Transducer on digital display and digi-
tal thermometer. Refer toCharge Determination
Chartand determine where the system is operating.
SERVICE PROCEDURES
R-134a REFRIGERANT
This vehicle uses a new type of refrigerant called
R-134a. It is a non-toxic, non-flammable, clear color-
less liquefied gas.
R-134a refrigerant is not compatible with R-12
refrigerant in an air conditioning system. Even a
small amount of R-12 in a R-134a system could cause
compressor failure, refrigerant oil to sludge and/or
poor performance.Never add any other type of
refrigerant to a system designed to use R-134a
refrigerant. System failure will occur.
24 - 16 HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONINGNS
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING (Continued)
The high pressure service port is located on the liq-
uid line near the strut tower. The low pressure ser-
vice port is located on the suction line near the
compressor manifold.
When servicing a system, it is required that an air
conditioning charging recovery/recycling machine be
used (Fig. 8). Contact an automotive service equip-
ment supplier for proper equipment. Refer to the
operating instructions provided with the equipment
for proper operation.
A manifold gauge set (Fig. 9) must also be used in
conjunction with the charging and/or recovery/recy-
cling device. Only use gauges that have not been
used for R-12. The service hoses on the gauge set
should have manual (turn wheel) or automatic back
flow valves at the service port connector ends. This
will prevent refrigerant R-134a from being released
into the atmosphere.
R-134a refrigerant requires a special type of com-
pressor oil. When adding oil, make sure to use the oil
that is specified on the under hood label.
Due to the different characteristics of R-134a it
requires all new service procedures.
The use of R-134a will have a positive environmen-
tal impact due to it's zero ozone depletion and low
global warming impact.
CHARGING REFRIGERANT SYSTEM
CAUTION: Do not overcharge refrigerant system,
as excessive compressor head pressure can cause
noise and system failure.
After the system has been tested for leaks and
evacuated, a refrigerant (R-134a) charge can be
injected into the system.
Charge Determination Chart
Fig. 8 Refrigerant Recovery/Recycling Station
(Typical)
NSHEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING 24 - 17
SERVICE PROCEDURES (Continued)
NOTE: When connecting the service equipment
coupling to the line fitting, verify that the valve of
the coupling is fully closed. This will reduce the
amount of effort required to make the connection.
(1) Connect manifold gauge set.
(2) Measure refrigerant (refer to capacities) and
heat to 52ÉC (125ÉF) with the charging station. Refer
to the instructions provided with the equipment
being used.
REFRIGERANT CAPACITIES
²Without Rear A/C = .96 kg (34 oz. or 2.13lb.)
²With Rear A/C = 1.36 kg (48 oz. or 3.00 lb.)
(3) Open the suction and discharge valves. Open
the charge valve to allow the heated refrigerant to
flow into the system. When the transfer of refriger-
ant has stopped, close the suction and discharge
valve.
(4) If all of the charge did not transfer from the
dispensing device, run engine at a high idle (1400
rpm). Set the A/C control to A/C, low blower speed,
and open windows. If the A/C compressor does not
engage, test the compressor clutch control circuit and
correct any failure. Refer to Group 8W, Wiring Dia-
grams.
(5) Open the suction valve to allow the remaining
refrigerant to transfer to the system.
WARNING: TAKE CARE NOT TO OPEN THE DIS-
CHARGE (HIGH-PRESSURE) VALVE AT THIS TIME.(6) Close all valves and test the A/C system perfor-
mance.
(7) Disconnect the charging station or manifold
gauge set. Install the service port caps.
EVACUATING REFRIGERANT SYSTEM
NOTE: Special effort must be used to prevent mois-
ture from entering the A/C system oil. Moisture in
the oil is very difficult to remove and will cause a
reliability problem with the compressor.
If a compressor designed to use R-134a refrigerant
is left open to the atmosphere for an extended period
of time. It is recommended that the refrigerant oil be
drained and replaced with new oil or a new compres-
sor be used. This will eliminate the possibility of con-
taminating the refrigerant system.
If the refrigerant system has been open to the
atmosphere, it must be evacuated before the system
can be filled. Moisture and air mixed with the refrig-
erant will raise the compressor head pressure above
acceptable operating levels. This will reduce the per-
formance of the air conditioner and damage the com-
pressor. Moisture will boil at near room temperature
when exposed to vacuum. To evacuate the refrigerant
system:
NOTE: When connecting the service equipment
coupling to the line fitting, verify that the valve of
the coupling is fully closed. This will reduce the
amount of effort required to make the connection.
(1) Connect a suitable charging station, refrigerant
recovery machine, and a manifold gauge set with
vacuum pump (Fig. 10).
(2) Open the suction and discharge valves and
start the vacuum pump. The vacuum pump should
run a minimum of 45 minutes prior to charge to
Fig. 9 Manifold Gauge Set- Typical
Fig. 10 Refrigerant Recovery Machine Hookup
24 - 18 HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONINGNS
SERVICE PROCEDURES (Continued)
eliminate all moisture in system. When the suction
gauge reads -88 kPa (- 26 in. Hg) vacuum or greater
for 45 minutes, close all valves and turn off vacuum
pump. If the system fails to reach specified vacuum,
the refrigerant system likely has a leak that must be
corrected. If the refrigerant system maintains speci-
fied vacuum for at least 30 minutes, start the vac-
uum pump, open the suction and discharge valves.
Then allow the system to evacuate an additional 10
minutes.
(3) Close all valves. Turn off and disconnect the
vacuum pump.
(4) The refrigerant system is prepared to be
charged with refrigerant.
THERMOCOUPLE PROBE
To diagnose the A/C system, a temperature probe is
required to measure liquid line temperature. The
clamp-on type K probe shown in this manual is avail-
able through the Chrysler Professional Service
Equipment (PSE) program. This probe is compatible
with temperature-measuring instruments that accept
Type K Thermocouples and have a miniature connec-
tor input. Other temperature probes are available
through aftermarket sources. All references in this
manual will reflect the use of the probe made avail-
able through the Professional Service Equipment pro-
gram.
In order to use the temperature probe, a digital
thermometer will be required. If a digital thermome-
ter is not available, an adapter is available through
the Professional Service Equipment program. It can
convert any standard digital multimeter into a ther-
mometer. This adapter is designed to accept any
standard K-type thermocouple.
If a digital multimeter is not available, it to can be
ordered through Professional Service Equipment pro-
gram.
STICKING HVAC CONTROL MODULE PUSH
BUTTONS
To service HVAC control module push buttons that
are sticking, spray between the buttons with Mopart
MP-50. The MP-50 is a all purpose lubricant for
mechanical and electrical uses. After spraying around
the push buttons wipe any excess off the radio bezel
and HVAC control module push buttons. Operate the
buttons to ensure that they are operating freely.
SYSTEM LEAK CHECKING
WARNING: R-134a SERVICE EQUIPMENT OR VEHI-
CLE A/C SYSTEM SHOULD NOT BE PRESSURE
TESTED OR LEAK TESTED WITH COMPRESSED
AIR. SOME MIXTURES OF AIR/R-134a HAVE BEEN
SHOWN TO BE COMBUSTIBLE AT ELEVATEDPRESSURES. THESE MIXTURES ARE POTENTIALLY
DANGEROUS AND MAY RESULT IN FIRE OR
EXPLOSION CAUSING INJURY OR PROPERTY
DAMAGE.
If the A/C system is not cooling properly, determine
if the refrigerant system is fully charged with
R-134a. This is accomplished by performing a system
Charge Level-Check or Fill. If while performing this
test A/C liquid line pressure is less than 207 kPa (30
psi) proceed to Empty Refrigerant System Leak Test.
If liquid line pressure is greater than 207 kPa (30
psi) proceed to low refrigerant level leak test. If the
refrigerant system is empty or low in refrigerant
charge, a leak at any line fitting or component seal is
likely. A review of the fittings, lines and components
for oily residue is an indication of the leak location.
To detect a leak in the refrigerant system, perform
one of the following procedures as indicated by the
symptoms.
WARNING: AVOID BREATHING A/C REFRIGERANT
AND LUBRICANT VAPOR OR MIST. EXPOSURE MAY
IRRITATE EYES, NOSE AND THROAT. USE ONLY
APPROVED SERVICE EQUIPMENT MEETING SAE
REQUIREMENTS TO DISCHARGE R-134a SYSTEM.
IF ACCIDENTAL SYSTEM DISCHARGE OCCURS,
VENTILATE WORK AREA BEFORE RESUMING SER-
VICE.
EMPTY REFRIGERANT SYSTEM LEAK TEST
(1) Evacuate the refrigerant system to the lowest
degree of vacuum possible (about 28 in Hg.). Deter-
mine if the system holds a vacuum for 15 minutes. If
vacuum is held, a leak is probably not present. If sys-
tem will not maintain vacuum level, proceed with
this procedure.
(2) Prepare a .284 Kg. (10 oz.) refrigerant charge
to be injected into the system.
(3) Connect and dispense .284 Kg. (10 oz.) of
refrigerant into the evacuated refrigerant system.
(4) Proceed to step two of Low Refrigerant Level
Leak Test.
LOW REFRIGERANT LEVEL LEAK TEST
(1) Determine if there is any (R-134a) refrigerant
in the system. Use the scan tool (DRB) under the
menu Systems Sensors±A/C Pressure test or pressure
gauge liquid line temperature partial charge check.
See system charge level check or fill for procedure.
(2) Position the vehicle in a wind free work area.
This will aid in detecting small leaks.
(3) Bring the refrigerant system up to operating
temperature and pressure. This is done by allowing
the engine to run for five minutes with the system
set to the following:
NSHEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING 24 - 19
SERVICE PROCEDURES (Continued)
²Transaxle in Park
²Engine Idling at 700 rpm
²A/C Controls Set in 100 percent outside air
²Full Panel Mode
²Blower motor ON HIGH
²A/C in the ON position
²Front Windows Open.
²Rear Air Off (If Equipped)
CAUTION: A leak detector designed for R-12 refrig-
erant will not detect leaks in a R-134a refrigerant
system.
(4) Shut off the vehicle and wait 2 to 7 minutes.
Then use an Electronic Leak Detector that is
designed to detect R-134a type refrigerant and search
for leaks. Fittings, lines, or components that appear
to be oily usually indicates a refrigerant leak. To
inspect the evaporator core for leaks, insert the leak
detector probe into the recirculating air door opening
or a heat duct.
If a thorough leak check has been completed with-
out indication of a leak, proceed to System Charge
Level-Check or Fill.
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION
A/C PRESSURE TRANSDUCER
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect the wire connector at the pressure
transducer.
(2) Using an open end wrench, remove the trans-
ducer from the liquid line (Fig. 11).
INSTALLATION
(1) Replace transducer O-ring.
(2) For installation, reverse the above procedures.
A/C SERVICE PORTS
WARNING: THE REFRIGERATION SYSTEM MUST
BE COMPLETELY EMPTY BEFORE PROCEEDING
WITH THIS OPERATION.
The High Side service port is serviceable, the Low
Side is not serviceable.
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect the battery negative cable.
(2) Recover A/C system refrigerant.
(3) Unscrew the High Side service port from the
liquid line.
(4) Remove O-ring
INSTALLATION
For installation, reverse the above procedures.
²Install new O-ring.
²Evacuate and recharge A/C system.
BLEND-AIR DOOR ACTUATOR
REMOVAL
The air conditioning system can be equipped with
either a standard, single blend-air door actuator, or it
can be equipped with dual actuators. The dual sys-
tem has separate blend-air controls. This allows for
separate control of the driver's side air, and the pas-
senger side air (Fig. 12).
(1) Remove the lower left side steering column
cover. Refer to Group 8E, Instrument Panel and Sys-
tems.
(2) Remove ABS control module (Fig. 13).
(3) Remove blend-air actuator connector.
(4) Remove blend-air actuator (Fig. 14).
INSTALLATION
(1) For installation, reverse the above procedures.
Fig. 11 A/C Pressure Transducer Removal
Fig. 12 Side View Of HVAC With Actuators
24 - 20 HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONINGNS
SERVICE PROCEDURES (Continued)
EVAPORATOR AND EXPANSION VALVE
NOTE: Special effort must be used to keep all
R-134a system components moisture-free. Moisture
in the oil is very difficult to remove and will cause a
reliability problem with the compressor.
REMOVAL
WARNING: THE REFRIGERANT SYSTEM MUST BE
EMPTY BEFORE PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING
OPERATION. THE ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM
MUST ALSO BE RELIEVED OF ALL PRESSURE.
(1) Remove right quarter trim panel and D-pillar
trim. Refer to Group 23, Body.
(2) Remove fan A/C distribution duct.
(3) Remove rear A/C unit.
(4) Remove blower scroll.
(5) Remove evaporator cover (Fig. 12).
(6) Remove the nut that mounts the refrigerant
plumbing block to the expansion valve (Fig. 13).
(7) Carefully pull the evaporator and expansion
valve straight out of unit (Fig. 14). Do not scratch
the sealing surfaces with the plumbing extension
tube pilots.
(8) Remove and discard the O-rings between the
plumbing extension and the expansion valve.
(9) Cover the plumbing extension sealing surface
to prevent contamination.
(10) Bring evaporator and expansion valve to a
clean work space.
(11) Remove two 1/4-20 Torx Head screws.
(12) Remove expansion valve.
(13) Measure and record the amount of residual oil
from the removed evaporator.
INSTALLATION
(1) Replace the O-rings.(2) Hold expansion valve against evaporator seal-
ing plate (do not scratch the sealing surface). Install
two screws and tighten to 1163 N´m (100630 inch
pounds) torque.
Fig. 11 Rear Heat-A/C UnitFig. 12 Evaporator Cover
Fig. 13 Expansion Valve
Fig. 14 Evaporator Removal
24 - 44 HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONINGNS
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION (Continued)
REAR HEATER A/C BLOWER MOTOR
REMOVAL
(1) Remove the right quarter trim panel and D-pil-
lar trim. Refer to Group 23, Body for service proce-
dures.
(2) Remove (5) screws securing the blower motor
housing to the rear of the HVAC housing (one screw
located on evaporator cover) (Fig. 16).
(3) Twist motor out of scroll housing.
(4) Disconnect blower motor wiring connector.
INSTALLATION
For installation, reverse the above procedures.
REAR HEATER-A/C CONTROL ILLUMINATION BULB
REMOVAL
(1) Remove rear heater-A/C control from trim
panel.
(2) On the back of control opposite from the wire
connectors, locate the bulb socket lug.
(3) Rotate the socket counterclockwise and pull the
socket from the control.
INSTALLATION
For installation, reverse the above procedures.
Refer to Group 8L, Lamps for bulb usage.
REAR HEATER A/C UNIT
NOTE: Special effort must be used to keep all
R-134a system components moisture-free. Moisture
in the oil is very difficult to remove and will cause a
reliability problem with the compressor.
REMOVAL
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH REAR
A/C, THE REFRIGERANT SYSTEM MUST BE EMP-
TIED BEFORE PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING
OPERATION. THE ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM
MUST ALSO BE RELIEVED OF ALL PRESSURE.
(1) Using a refrigerant recovery machine, remove
refrigerant from the A/C system. Disconnect A/C
plumbing from rear heater A/C unit.
(2) Hoist vehicle.
(3) Remove A/C lines at lower floor pan flange
(Fig. 17).
(4) Remove (3) A/C unit floor mounting nuts (Fig.
18).
(5) Lower vehicle.
(6) Remove right quarter trim panel and D-pillar
trim (Fig. 8). Refer to Group 23, Body.
(7) Remove screws securing air distribution duct to
the rear wheel housing (Fig. 19).
Fig. 16 Blower Motor
Fig. 17 A/C Lines
Fig. 18 A/C Mounting
24 - 46 HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONINGNS
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION (Continued)