1998 DODGE RAM 1500 Capacity

²Faulty A/C-heater control.
²Faulty related wiring harness or connectors.
²Improper engine coolant temperature.
SPECIFICATIONS - A/C SYSTEM
The R-134a refrigerant system charge capacity for
this vehicle can be found on the underhood Specifica-
tion Label.
A/C SYSTEM SPECIFICATION CHART
Item Description Notes
Compressor Saden SD-7
(5.9L engine)SP-15 PAG oil
Denso 10S17
(3.7L/4.7L/5.7L
engines)ND-8 PAG oil
Freeze±up
ControlEvaporator
Temperature
SensorEvaporator coil
mounted
High psi Control A/C pressure
transducerDischarge line
mounted
Compressor
Clutch Coil
Draw2 - 3.9 amps @
12V   0.5V @
21É C (70É F)5.9L engine
2.2 amps @
12V   0.5V @
21É C (70É F)3.7L/4.7L/5.7L
engines
Compressor
Clutch Air Gap0.41 - 0.79 mm
(0.016 - 0.031
in.)5.9L engine
0.35 - 0.65 mm
(0.013 - 0.025
in.)3.7L/4.7L/5.7L
engines
TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS
Description N´m Ft. Lbs. In. Lbs.
A/C Compressor Shaft Nut 15-20 11-15 ±
A/C Compressor Bolt-Inner
Front-3.7L,4.7L40 30 ±
A/C Compressor Bolt-Inner
Rear-3.7L,4.7L55 41 ±
A/C Compressor Rear Bolt-
3.7L,4.7L55 41 ±
A/C Compressor Lower Bolts-5.7L 40 30 ±
A/C Compressor Rear Bolt-5.7L 55 41 ±
A/C Compressor Bolts-5.9L Diesel 24 17 ±
A/C Compressor Clutch Coil Wire
Retainer Screw2.2 ± 20
A/C-Heater Control Screws 2.2 ± 20
Accumulator Bracket Bolts 4.5 ± 40
Blower Motor Screws 2.2 ± 20
Blower Motor Resistor Block
Screws2.2 ± 20
Center Distribution Duct Screws 2.2 ± 20
DRHEATING & AIR CONDITIONING 24 - 7
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING (Continued)

NOTE: The air gap is determined by the spacer
shims. When installing an original, or a new clutch
assembly, try the original shims first. When install-
ing a new clutch onto a compressor that previously
did not have a clutch, use a 1.0, 0.50, and 0.13 mil-
limeter (0.040, 0.020, and 0.005 inch) shims from the
new clutch hardware package that is provided with
the new clutch.
(9) To complete the procedure (Refer to 24 - HEAT-
ING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING/A/C COM-
PRESSOR - INSTALLATION).
A/C COMPRESSOR CLUTCH
RELAY
DESCRIPTION
The A/C compressor clutch relay (Fig. 10) is a
International Standards Organization (ISO) micro-re-
lay. Relays conforming to the ISO specifications have
common physical dimensions, current capacities, ter-
minal patterns, and terminal functions. The ISO
micro-relay terminal functions are the same as a con-
ventional ISO relay. However, the ISO micro-relay
terminal pattern (or footprint) is different, the cur-
rent capacity is lower, and the physical dimensions
are smaller than those of the conventional ISO relay.
The A/C compressor clutch relay is located in the
intergrated power module (IPM) in the engine com-
partment. See the fuse and relay layout label affixed
to the inside surface of the IPM cover for A/C com-
pressor clutch relay identification and location.
The black, molded plastic case is the most visible
component of the A/C compressor clutch relay. Fivemale spade-type terminals extend from the bottom of
the base to connect the relay to the vehicle electrical
system, and the ISO designation for each terminal is
molded into the base adjacent to each terminal. The
ISO terminal designations are as follows:
²30 (Common Feed)- This terminal is con-
nected to the movable contact point of the relay.
²85 (Coil Ground)- This terminal is connected
to the ground feed side of the relay control coil.
²86 (Coil Battery)- This terminal is connected
to the battery feed side of the relay control coil.
²87 (Normally Open)- This terminal is con-
nected to the normally open fixed contact point of the
relay.
²87A (Normally Closed)- This terminal is con-
nected to the normally closed fixed contact point of
the relay.
OPERATION
The A/C compressor clutch relay is an electrome-
chanical switch that uses a low current input from
the powertrain control module (PCM) or engine con-
trol module (ECM) depending on engine application,
to control the high current output to the compressor
clutch electromagnetic coil. The movable common
feed contact point is held against the fixed normally
closed contact point by spring pressure. When the
relay coil is energized, an electromagnetic field is
produced by the coil windings. This electromagnetic
field draws the movable relay contact point away
from the fixed normally closed contact point, and
holds it against the fixed normally open contact
point. When the relay coil is de-energized, spring
pressure returns the movable contact point back
against the fixed normally closed contact point. The
resistor or diode is connected in parallel with the
relay coil in the relay, and helps to dissipate voltage
Fig. 9 Check Clutch Air Gap - Typical
1 - FEELER GAUGE
Fig. 10 A/C Compressor Clutch Micro-Relay
30 - COMMON FEED
85 - COIL GROUND
86 - COIL BATTERY
87 - NORMALLY OPEN
87A - NORMALLY CLOSED
DRCONTROLS 24 - 13
A/C COMPRESSOR CLUTCH/COIL (Continued)

REFRIGERANT OIL
DESCRIPTION.........................68
OPERATION...........................69
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT
OIL LEVEL...........................69
SERVICE PORT VALVE CORE
DESCRIPTION.........................70
REMOVAL - SERVICE PORT VALVE CORES . . 70
INSTALLATION.........................70
SUCTION LINE
DESCRIPTION.........................70REMOVAL
REMOVAL - 5.9L DIESEL ENGINE.........70
REMOVAL - 3.7L/4.7L AND 5.7L HEMI
ENGINE.............................71
INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION - 5.9L DIESEL ENGINE.....72
INSTALLATION - 3.7L/4.7L AND 5.7L HEMI
ENGINE.............................73
PLUMBING
DESCRIPTION - REFRIGERANT LINE
The refrigerant lines and hoses are used to carry
the refrigerant between the various air conditioning
system components. A barrier hose design with a
nylon tube, which is sandwiched between rubber lay-
ers, is used for the R-134a air conditioning system on
this vehicle. This nylon tube helps to further contain
the R-134a refrigerant, which has a smaller molecu-
lar structure than R-12 refrigerant. The ends of the
refrigerant hoses are made from lightweight alumi-
num or steel, and commonly use braze-less fittings.
Any kinks or sharp bends in the refrigerant plumb-
ing will reduce the capacity of the entire air condi-
tioning system. Kinks and sharp bends reduce the
flow of refrigerant in the system. A good rule for the
flexible hose refrigerant lines is to keep the radius of
all bends at least ten times the diameter of the hose.
In addition, the flexible hose refrigerant lines should
be routed so they are at least 80 millimeters (3
inches) from an exhaust manifold.
OPERATION- REFRIGERANT LINES
High pressures are produced in the refrigerant sys-
tem when the air conditioning compressor is operat-
ing. Extreme care must be exercised to make sure
that each of the refrigerant system connections is
pressure-tight and leak free. It is a good practice to
inspect all flexible hose refrigerant lines at least once
a year to make sure they are in good condition and
properly routed.
The refrigerant lines and hoses are coupled with
other components of the HVAC system with either
O-rings or dual plane seals.
The refrigerant lines and hoses cannot be repaired
and, if faulty or damaged, they must be replaced.
WARNING
ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM
WARNING: THE ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM IS
DESIGNED TO DEVELOP INTERNAL PRESSURES
OF 97 TO 123 KILOPASCALS (14 TO 18 POUNDS
PER SQUARE INCH). DO NOT REMOVE OR
LOOSEN THE COOLANT PRESSURE CAP, CYLIN-
DER BLOCK DRAIN PLUGS, RADIATOR DRAIN,
RADIATOR HOSES, HEATER HOSES, OR HOSE
CLAMPS WHILE THE ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM IS
HOT AND UNDER PRESSURE. FAILURE TO
OBSERVE THIS WARNING CAN RESULT IN SERI-
OUS BURNS FROM THE HEATED ENGINE COOL-
ANT. ALLOW THE VEHICLE TO COOL FOR A
MINIMUM OF 15 MINUTES BEFORE OPENING THE
COOLING SYSTEM FOR SERVICE.
24 - 42 PLUMBINGDR

STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - HANDLING TUBING
AND FITTINGS
CAUTION: The system must be completely empty
before opening any fitting or connection in the
refrigeration system. Open fittings with caution
even after the system has been emptied. If any
pressure is noticed as a fitting is loosened,
retighten fitting and evacuate the system again.
A good rule for the flexible hose lines is to keep the
radius of all bends at least 10 times the diameter of
the hose. Sharper bends will reduce the flow of
refrigerant. The flexible hose lines should be routed
so they are at least 3 inches (80 mm) from the
exhaust manifold. Inspect all flexible hose lines to
make sure they are in good condition and properly
routed.
The use of correct wrenches when making connec-
tions is very important. Improper wrenches or
improper use of wrenches can damage the fittings.
The internal parts of the A/C system will remain sta-
ble as long as moisture-free refrigerant and refrig-
erant oil is used. Abnormal amounts of dirt,
moisture or air can upset the chemical stability.
This may cause operational troubles or even seri-
ous damage if present in more than very small
quantities. Before disconnecting a component,
clean the outside of the fittings thoroughly to pre-
vent contamination from entering the refrigerant
system.
When opening a refrigeration system, have every-
thing you will need to repair the system ready. This
will minimize the amount of time the system must
be opened. Cap or plug all lines and fittings as
soon as they are opened. This will help prevent the
entrance of dirt and moisture. All new lines and
components should be capped or sealed until they
are ready to be used. Before connecting a compo-
nent, clean the outside of the fittings thoroughly to
prevent contamination from entering the refrigerant
system.
All tools, including the refrigerant dispensing mani-
fold, the manifold gauge set, and test hoses should
be kept clean and dry.
Kinks in the refrigerant tubing or sharp bends in
the refrigerant hose lines will greatly reduce the
capacity of the entire system. High pressures are pro-
duced in the system when it is operating. Extreme
care must be exercised to make sure that all connec-
tions are pressure tight. Dirt and moisture can enter
the system when it is opened for repair or replace-
ment of lines or components. The refrigerant oil willabsorb moisture readily out of the air. This moisture
will convert into acids within a closed system.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - DIODE
REPLACEMENT
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. If the vehicle has dual batteries, remove the
negative cable from both batteries.
(2) Locate the diode in the harness, and remove
the protective covering.
(3) Remove the diode from the harness. Note the
direction of current flow (Fig. 1).
(4) Remove the insulation from the wires in the
harness. Only remove enough insulation to solder in
the new diode.
(5) Install the new diode in the harness, making
sure current flow is correct. If necessary refer to the
appropriate wiring diagram for current flow.
(6) Solder the connections together using rosin
core type solder only.Do not use acid core solder.
(7) Tape the diode to the harness using electrical
tape. Make sure the diode is completely sealed from
the elements.
(8) Reconnect the battery negative cable(s) and
test the affected systems.
Fig. 1 Diode Identification
1 - CURRENT FLOW
2 - BAND INDICATES CURRENT FLOW
3 - DIODE AS SHOWN IN WIRING DIAGRAMS
DRPLUMBING 24 - 45
PLUMBING (Continued)

After the system has been tested for leaks and
evacuated, a refrigerant (R-134a) charge can be
injected into the 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) If using a separate vacuum pump close all
valves before disconnecting pump. Connect manifold
gauge set to the A/C service ports.
NOTE: Always refer to the underhood HVAC Speci-
fication label for the refrigerant fill level of the vehi-
cle being serviced.
(2) Measure refrigerant (refer to capacities). Refer
to the instructions provided with the equipment
being used.
(3) Verify engine is shut off. Open the suction and
discharge valves. Open the charge valve to allow the
refrigerant to flow into the system. When the trans-
fer of refrigerant has stopped, close the suction and
discharge valve.
(4) If all of the charge did not transfer from the
dispensing device, put vehicle controls into the fol-
lowing mode:
²Automatic transmission in park or manual
transmission in neutral
²Engine at idle
²A/C mode control set to outside air
²A/C mode control set to panel mode
²A/C temperature control set to full cool
²Blower motor control set on highest speed
²Vehicle windows closed
If the A/C compressor does not engage, test the
compressor clutch control circuit and correct any fail-
ure (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/WIRING DIAGRAM
INFORMATION - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING).
(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.
REFRIGERANT CHARGE CAPACITY
The R-134a refrigerant system charge capacity for
this vehicle can be found on the underhood HVAC
specfication tag.
A/C COMPRESSOR
DESCRIPTION
DESCRIPTION - A/C COMPRESSOR
The A/C system on models equipped with the 5.9L
engine use a Sanden SD-7 reciprocating swash plate-
type compressor. This compressor has a fixed dis-
placement of 165 cubic centimeter (10.068 cubic
inches) and has both the suction and discharge ports
located on the cylinder head.
The A/C system on models equipped with the 3.7L,
4.7L and 5.7L engines use a Denso 10S17 reciprocat-
ing swash plate-type compressor. This compressor
has a fixed displacement of 170 cubic centimeter and
has both the suction and discharge ports located on
the cylinder head.
A label identifying the use of R-134a refrigerant is
located on both A/C compressors.
DESCRIPTION - HIGH PRESSURE RELIEF
VALVE
A high pressure relief valve is located on the com-
pressor cylinder head, which is on the rear of the
compressor. This mechanical valve is designed to
vent refrigerant from the system to protect against
damage to the compressor and other system compo-
nents, caused by condenser air flow restriction or an
overcharge of refrigerant.
OPERATION
OPERATION - A/C COMPRESSOR
The A/C compressor is driven by the engine
through an electric clutch, drive pulley and belt
arrangement. The compressor is lubricated by refrig-
erant oil that is circulated throughout the refrigerant
system with the refrigerant.
The compressor draws in low-pressure refrigerant
vapor from the evaporator through its suction port. It
then compresses the refrigerant into a high-pressure,
high-temperature refrigerant vapor, which is then
pumped to the condenser through the compressor dis-
charge port.
The compressor cannot be repaired. If faulty or
damaged, the entire compressor assembly must be
replaced. The compressor clutch, pulley and clutch
coil are available for service.
OPERATION - HIGH PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE
The high pressure relief valve vents the system
when a discharge pressure of 3445 to 4135 kPa (500
to 600 psi) or above is reached. The valve closes
24 - 48 PLUMBINGDR
PLUMBING (Continued)

designs. Useonlyrefrigerant oil of the same type as
recommended to service the refrigerant system
(always refer to the specification tagincluded
with the replacement A/C compressor or the under-
hood A/C system specification tag).
OPERATION
After performing any refrigerant recovery or recy-
cling operation, always replenish the refrigerant sys-
tem with the same amount of the recommended
refrigerant oil as was removed. Too little refrigerant
oil can cause compressor damage, and too much can
reduce air conditioning system performance.
PAG refrigerant oil is much more hygroscopic than
mineral oil, and will absorb any moisture it comes
into contact with, even moisture in the air. The PAG
oil container should always be kept tightly capped
until it is ready to be used. After use, recap the oil
container immediately to prevent moisture contami-
nation.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT OIL
LEVEL
WARNING: REFER TO THE APPLICABLE WARN-
INGS AND CAUTIONS FOR THIS SYSTEM BEFORE
PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING OPERATION (Refer
to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
WARNING) and (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CON-
DITIONING/PLUMBING - CAUTION).
CAUTION: The refrigerant oil in the R-134a A/C sys-
tem is unique depending on the A/C compressor
used. Use only PAG oils that are designed to work
with R-134a refrigerant and the A/C compressor in
the vehicle. Always refer to the underhood A/C Sys-
tem Specification Label for the correct oil designa-
tion.
It is important to have the correct amount of lubri-
cant in the A/C refrigerant system to ensure proper
lubrication of the A/C compressor. Too little lubricant
will result in damage to the compressor. Too much
lubricant will reduce the cooling capacity of the A/C
system and consequently result in higher discharge
air temperatures.
The lubricant used in the compressor is polyalka-
lene glycol PAG lubricant. Only the refrigerant lubri-
cant approved for use with this vehicle should be
used to service the system. Do not use any other
lubricant. The lubricant container should be kept
tightly capped until it is ready for use. Refrigerant
lubricant will quickly absorb any moisture it comes
in contact with.
It will not be necessary to check the oil level in the
A/C compressor or to add oil, unless there has beenan oil loss. An oil loss may occur due to component
replacement, or a rupture or leak from a refrigerant
line, connector fitting, component or component seal.
If a leak occurs, add 30 milliliters (1 fluid ounce) of
the recommended refrigerant oil to the refrigerant
system after the repair has been made. Refrigerant
oil loss will be evident at the leak point by the pres-
ence of a wet, shiny surface around the leak.
COMPONENT REFRIGERANT OIL LEVEL CHECK
When an air conditioning system is first assembled
at the factory, all components (except the A/C com-
pressor) are refrigerant oil free. After the refrigerant
system has been charged with (R-134a) refrigerant
and operated, the oil in the A/C compressor is dis-
persed through the lines and components. The A/C
evaporator, A/C condenser, and accumulator will
retain a significant amount of oil. Refer to the A/C
Component Refrigerant Oil Capacities table. When a
component is replaced, the specified amount of refrig-
erant oil must be added. When a new A/C compressor
is being installed, drain the lubricant from the used
compressor, measure the amount drained and discard
the used lubricant. Drain the lubricant from the new
A/C compressor into a clean container. Return the
amount of lubricant measured from the used com-
pressor, plus the amount reclaimed from the system
back into the new A/C compressor. When a line or
component has ruptured and oil has escaped, the
accumulator must be replaced along with the rup-
tured component.
A/C COMPONENT REFRIGERANT OIL
CAPACITIES
Component ml. oz.
Total System Fill 180 6
Accumulator 60 2
Condenser 30 1
Evaporator 60 2
Compressor Drain and measure
the oil from the old
compressor - see
text.
COMPRESSOR REFRIGERANT OIL LEVEL CHECK
NOTE: Most reclaim/recycling equipment will mea-
sure the lubricant being removed during recovery.
This amount of lubricant should be added back into
the system. Refer to the reclaim/recycling equip-
ment manufacturers instructions.
(1) Recover the refrigerant from the system.
DRPLUMBING 24 - 69
REFRIGERANT OIL (Continued)

Immediately after a cold start, between predeter-
mined temperature thresholds limits, the three port
solenoid is briefly energized. This initializes the
pump by drawing air into the pump cavity and also
closes the vent seal. During non test conditions the
vent seal is held open by the pump diaphragm
assembly which pushes it open at the full travel posi-
tion. The vent seal will remain closed while the
pump is cycling due to the reed switch triggering of
the three port solenoid that prevents the diaphragm
assembly from reaching full travel. After the brief
initialization period, the solenoid is de-energized
allowing atmospheric pressure to enter the pump
cavity, thus permitting the spring to drive the dia-
phragm which forces air out of the pump cavity and
into the vent system. When the solenoid is energized
and de energized, the cycle is repeated creating flow
in typical diaphragm pump fashion. The pump is con-
trolled in 2 modes:
Pump Mode: The pump is cycled at a fixed rate to
achieve a rapid pressure build in order to shorten the
overall test length.
Test Mode: The solenoid is energized with a fixed
duration pulse. Subsequent fixed pulses occur when
the diaphragm reaches the Switch closure point.
The spring in the pump is set so that the system
will achieve an equalized pressure of about 7.5º H20.
The cycle rate of pump strokes is quite rapid as the
system begins to pump up to this pressure. As the
pressure increases, the cycle rate starts to drop off. If
there is no leak in the system, the pump would even-
tually stop pumping at the equalized pressure. If
there is a leak, it will continue to pump at a rate rep-
resentative of the flow characteristic of the size of the
leak. From this information we can determine if the
leak is larger than the required detection limit (cur-
rently set at .040º orifice by CARB). If a leak is
revealed during the leak test portion of the test, the
test is terminated at the end of the test mode and no
further system checks will be performed.
After passing the leak detection phase of the test,
system pressure is maintained by turning on the
LDP's solenoid until the purge system is activated.
Purge activation in effect creates a leak. The cycle
rate is again interrogated and when it increases due
to the flow through the purge system, the leak check
portion of the diagnostic is complete.
The canister vent valve will unseal the system
after completion of the test sequence as the pump
diaphragm assembly moves to the full travel position.
Evaporative system functionality will be verified by
using the stricter evap purge flow monitor. At an
appropriate warm idle the LDP will be energized to
seal the canister vent. The purge flow will be clocked
up from some small value in an attempt to see a
shift in the 02 control system. If fuel vapor, indicatedby a shift in the 02 control, is present the test is
passed. If not, it is assumed that the purge system is
not functioning in some respect. The LDP is again
turned off and the test is ended.
MISFIRE MONITOR
Excessive engine misfire results in increased cata-
lyst temperature and causes an increase in HC emis-
sions. Severe misfires could cause catalyst damage.
To prevent catalytic convertor damage, the PCM
monitors engine misfire.
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) monitors
for misfire during most engine operating conditions
(positive torque) by looking at changes in the crank-
shaft speed. If a misfire occurs the speed of the
crankshaft will vary more than normal.
FUEL SYSTEM MONITOR
To comply with clean air regulations, vehicles are
equipped with catalytic converters. These converters
reduce the emission of hydrocarbons, oxides of nitro-
gen and carbon monoxide. The catalyst works best
when the Air Fuel (A/F) ratio is at or near the opti-
mum of 14.7 to 1.
The PCM is programmed to maintain the optimum
air/fuel ratio of 14.7 to 1. This is done by making
short term corrections in the fuel injector pulse width
based on the O2S sensor output. The programmed
memory acts as a self calibration tool that the engine
controller uses to compensate for variations in engine
specifications, sensor tolerances and engine fatigue
over the life span of the engine. By monitoring the
actual fuel-air ratio with the O2S sensor (short term)
and multiplying that with the program long-term
(adaptive) memory and comparing that to the limit,
it can be determined whether it will pass an emis-
sions test. If a malfunction occurs such that the PCM
cannot maintain the optimum A/F ratio, then the
MIL will be illuminated.
CATALYST MONITOR
To comply with clean air regulations, vehicles are
equipped with catalytic converters. These converters
reduce the emission of hydrocarbons, oxides of nitro-
gen and carbon monoxide.
Normal vehicle miles or engine misfire can cause a
catalyst to decay. This can increase vehicle emissions
and deteriorate engine performance, driveability and
fuel economy.
The catalyst monitor uses dual oxygen sensors
(O2S's) to monitor the efficiency of the converter. The
dual O2S's sensor strategy is based on the fact that
as a catalyst deteriorates, its oxygen storage capacity
and its efficiency are both reduced. By monitoring
the oxygen storage capacity of a catalyst, its effi-
ciency can be indirectly calculated. The upstream
DREMISSIONS CONTROL 25 - 3
EMISSIONS CONTROL (Continued)