Page 1833 of 1938

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)
Page 1834 of 1938

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)
Page 1835 of 1938

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)
Page 1836 of 1938

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)
Page 1837 of 1938
(2) Perform the HVAC Control Calibration Diag-
nostic and Cooldown test. Repeating the test is nec-
essary to clear the fault codes.
BLOWER MOTOR AND WHEEL ASSEMBLY
REMOVAL
(1) Remove glove box. Refer to Group 8E, Instru-
ment Panel and Systems.
(2) Remove (4) hex head screws to blower motor
cover (Fig. 15).
(3) Disconnect blower motor wiring.
(4) Remove grommet for wiring (Fig. 16). Feed wir-
ing through blower housing (Fig. 17).
(5) Remove mounting screws for blower motor (Fig.
18).
(6) Allow the blower assembly to drop down, and
remove assembly from vehicle.
INSTALLATION
For installation, reverse the above procedures.
BLOWER MOTOR RESISTOR BLOCK
REMOVAL
(1) Open hood.
(2) Disconnect and isolate negative battery cable.
Fig. 13 ABS Control Module
Fig. 14 Blend-Air Actuator
Fig. 15 Blower Motor Cover
Fig. 16 Wiring Grommet
Fig. 17 Feeding Wiring Through Housing
NSHEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING 24 - 21
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION (Continued)
Page 1838 of 1938

(3) Locate and remove the wire connector from the
blower resistor block. Block is located at the back of
the engine compartment on the passenger side of the
vehicle under the wiper module (Fig. 19).
NOTE: It may not necessary to remove the wiper
module to access the resistor block.
(4) Using a long flad blade screwdriver, gently
push in on drivers side of resistor. Be careful to catch
the inner release tang and gently pry outward (Fig.
20).
WARNING: THE RESISTOR BLOCK MAY BE HOT.
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO SERVICE THE RESISTOR
BLOCK IF THE SYSTEM HAS BEEN RUNNING
RECENTLY. LET THE SYSTEM COOL DOWN
BEFORE REPAIRS ARE INITIATED.
(5) Remove resistor block by inserting a flat blade
pry tool on the side of the resistor block and pushing
inward. Two guide lines are shown on the right hand
edge of the resistor block to help guide the bladeposition. This will release the clips on the side of the
resistor block. Pull resistor block out.
INSTALLATION
For installation, reverse the above procedures.
Make sure the ªTOPº lettering is on the top of the
resistor. The coils on the Resistor Block should not be
contacting one another. Before installation, gently
separate the coils (with fingers only) if one coil is
contacting another.
BLOWER MOTOR WHEEL
The blower motor wheel is not serviced separately.
If the wheel needs to be replaced it is serviced as an
assembly of the blower motor. For service procedure
information, refer to Blower Motor Replacement in
this group.
Fig. 18 Blower Motor Screws
Fig. 19 Resistor Block Location
Fig. 20 Resistor Block Removal
24 - 22 HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONINGNS
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION (Continued)
Page 1839 of 1938

COMPRESSOR
REMOVAL
WARNING: REFER TO REFRIGERANT SERVICE
PROCEDURES FOR INFORMATION REGARDING
PROPER RECOVERY OF THE REFRIGERANT
BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO REMOVE THE COM-
PRESSOR.
(1) Disconnect negative battery cable.
(2) Pinch off coolant lines to rear Heat unit (if
equipped). Drain engine coolant.
(3) Remove upper radiator hose.
(4) Remove drive belt (refer to Group 7, Cooling
System). Disconnect compressor clutch wire lead.
(5) Remove refrigerant lines from compressor (Fig.
21) and (Fig. 22).
(6) Remove compressor nuts and bolts (Fig. 23).
(7) Remove compressor (Fig. 24).
INSTALLATION
For installation, reverse the above procedures.
COMPRESSOR CLUTCH/COIL
REMOVAL
(1) Remove the compressor shaft bolt (Fig. 25). A
band type oil filter removal tool can be placed around
the clutch plate to aid in bolt removal.
Fig. 21 Suction Line
Fig. 22 Discharge line
Fig. 23 Compressor Mounts
Fig. 24 Compressor Removal
NSHEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING 24 - 23
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION (Continued)
Page 1840 of 1938

CAUTION: Do not use screwdrivers between the
clutch plate assembly and pulley to remove front
plate as this may damage the front plate assembly.
(2) Tap the clutch plate with a plastic hammer and
remove clutch plate and shim (Fig. 26).
(3) Remove pulley retaining snap ring with snap
ring pliers (C-4574), and slide pulley assembly off of
compressor (Fig. 27).
(4) Remove coil wire clip screw and wire harness.
(5) Remove snap ring retaining field coil onto com-
pressor housing (Fig. 28). Slide field coil off of com-
pressor housing.
(6) Examine frictional faces of the clutch pulley
and front plate for wear. The pulley and front plate
should be replaced if there is excessive wear or scor-
ing. If the friction surfaces are oily, inspect the shaft
nose area of the compressor for oil and remove the
felt from the front cover. If the compressor felt is sat-
urated with oil, the shaft seal is leaking and will
have to be replaced.(7) Check bearing for roughness, excessive leakage
or grease. If grease from bearing has contaminated
the faces of the pulley or front plate, they should be
replaced. If the bearing is rough or binds, replace
clutch pulley and front plate assembly.
Fig. 25 Compressor Shaft Bolt and Clutch Plate
Fig. 26 Clutch Plate and Shim(s)
Fig. 27 Removing Pulley Snap Ring
Fig. 28 Clutch Coil Snap Ring
24 - 24 HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONINGNS
REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION (Continued)