1999 DODGE RAM refrigerant type

Refrigerant R-12 based systems use mineral oil, while R-134a
systems use synthetic Polyalkylene Glycol (PAG) oils. Using a mineral
oil based lubricant with R-134a will result in A/C compressor failure
due to lack of proper lubrication.
Following are the most common R-134a refrigerant oils used by
most domestic vehicles:
Chrysler Corp., Eagle & Jeep
Use ND-8 PAG oil, SUN PAG 56 oil, SP-10 PAG Oil, or SP-20 PAG
oil.
Ford Motor Co.
Use YN-12B or YN-12C PAG Refrigerant Oil (specification WSH-
M1C231-B) or SP-20 PAG Oil (specification WST-M1C231-B2).
General Motors
On all models except Saturn, use PAG Refrigerant Oil (Part
No. 12345923). On Saturn, use Saturn PAG refrigerant oil.
NOTE: PAG oil absorbs moisture very rapidly, 2.3-5.6 percent by
weight as compared to a mineral oil absorption rate of .005
percent by weight.
NOTE: Use ONLY the specified oil for the appropriate system or A/C
compressor. Always check the underhood A/C specification
label or A/C compressor label before adding refrigerant oil
to A/C system.
SYSTEM SERVICE VALVES
SCHRADER-TYPE VALVES
NOTE: Although similar in construction and operation to a tire
valve, NEVER replace a Schrader-type valve with a tire
valve.
Schrader valve is similar in construction and operation to a
tire valve. See Fig. 4. When a test gauge hose is attached (hose has
built-in valve core depressor), Schrader stem is pushed inward to the
open position and allows system pressure to reach the gauge.
If test hose being used does not have a built-in core
depressor, an adapter must be used. Never attach hoses or adapters to
a Schrader valve unless it is first connected to manifold gauge set.
Fig. 4: Schrader Service Valve (Compressor Location Shown)
SPECIAL VALVE CONNECTORS
On some General Motors models, thread size on high-side

service valve (3/8" - 24 threads) is different from thread size on
low-side service valve (7/16" - 20 threads). Special adapters are
required to make this connection. See Fig. 5. These adapters are
available in 45-degree and 90-degree angles in addition to straight-
fixed and flexible adapters.
Fig. 5: Flexible High Side Adapter
R-134a SERVICE VALVES/PORTS
All vehicles with R-134a refrigerant use quick-disconnect
service valves/ports. All R-134a systems use quick-disconnect fittings
with sealing caps that thread into inside of service port instead of
onto outside of service port.
The high side uses a large service port, and the low side
uses a small service port. See Fig. 1. The R-134a service ports have
internal metric threads to help prevent the accidental connection of
R-12 servicing equipment.
There are 2 types of quick-disconnect service couplings which
can be used on R-134a systems. One type of service coupling depresses
service port valve when connection is made. The other type connects
onto service port but will not depress service port valve until a knob
is rotated. See Fig. 6.
Fig. 6: R-134a Service Couplings
Courtesy of chrysler corp.

Because R-134a is not interchangeable with R-12, separate
sets of hoses, gauges, and recovery/recycling equipment are required
to service vehicles. This is necessary to avoid cross-contamination
and damaging system.
All equipment used to service systems using R-134a must meet
SAE standard J2210. The service hoses on the manifold gauge set must
have manual (turn wheel) or automatic back-flow valves at the service
port connector ends. This will prevent refrigerant from being released
into the atmosphere.
For identification purposes, R-134a service hoses must have a
Black stripe along their length and be clearly labeled SAE J2196/134a.
The low pressure test hose is Blue with a Black stripe. The high-side
test hose is Red with a Black stripe. The center test hose is Yellow,
or White, with a Black stripe.
NOTE: Refrigerant R-12 service hoses will ONLY be labeled SAE
J2196.
All R-134a manifold gauge sets can be identified by one or
all of the following:
* Labeled FOR USE WITH R-134a on set.
* Labeled HFC-134 or R-134a on gauge face.
* Light Blue color on gauge face. In addition,
pressure/temperature scales on R-134a gauge sets are
different from R-12 manifold gauge sets.
MANIFOLD GAUGE SET
A manifold gauge set is used to determine the system's high-
side and low-side pressures, correct refrigerant charge, and operating
efficiency. High (discharge) and low (suction) pressures must be
compared to determine system operation. Manifold gauge sets for the 2
refrigerant types are basically the same except for fittings at ends
of hoses. Fittings are different to ensure connection only to
appropriate refrigerant system.
Low-Side Gauge
Low-side gauge, which may have a Blue identifying feature, is
used to measure low-side (suction) pressure. Low-side gauge is also
called a compound gauge because it can measure pressure and vacuum.
Pressure scale ranges from 0 to 150 psi; vacuum scale ranges from 0 to
30 in. Hg.
High-Side Gauge
High-side gauge, which may have a Red identifying feature, is
used to measure high-side (discharge) pressure. Gauge scale ranges
from 0 to 500 psi.
CONNECTING GAUGE SET
NOTE: R-134a quick disconnect service couplings are connected in
the same sequence as Schrader-type service valves.
Schrader-Type Valves
1) Put on safety goggles, and cover vehicle's fender. Slowly
remove protective caps from Schrader valves to check for leaky valves.
CAUTION: Ensure hand valves on manifold gauge set and the hose-end
shutoff valves are closed before attaching test hoses to
Schrader valves.

1) Manufacturer recommends flushing contaminated system using
one gallon of Ford A/C System Flushing Solvent (F4AZ-19579-A), a
Filter (FL-1A), an A/C Flusher Fitting Kit (014-00992). DO NOT reuse\
flushing solvent and filter, they are intended to be used on one
vehicle only.
2) Discharge A/C system, using approved refrigerant
recovery/recycling equipment. Flush specified A/C components using A/C
System Flusher (014-00991), according to manufacturer's operating
instructions.
3) If an A/C system flusher is not available to clean A/C
system, an in-line filter kit can be used. Filter kit is installed
before replacement compressor, accumulator/receiver-drier, muffler,
and thermal expansion valve/fixed orifice tube have been installed.
4) Filter kits are used with either a rubber lined suction
hose or with a nylon lined suction hose located between compressor and
evaporator. Rubber lined hose has a wall thickness of 1/4" and nylon
lined hose has a wall thickness of 1/8". See Fig. 22.
5) The filter kit for either type hose has 2 filters. A
temporary pancake filter and a permanent in-line suction filter.
Pancake filter is temporarily installed between condenser and
condenser-to-evaporator line. See Fig. 23. Permanent filter is
installed in suction line between accumulator and compressor.
6) Install replacement components (compressor, accumulator
and fixed orifice) with correct amount of refrigerant oil. See
COMPRESSOR REFRIGERANT OIL CHECKING article.
7) Cut suction hose between compressor and accumulator
(closer to compressor). Remove a length of suction hose to accommodate\
suction filter. Measure side wall of suction hose and install
appropriate filter with "O" rings and filter clamps. If side wall is
1/4", use in-line filter labeled USE WITH RUBBER INNER LINED HOSE. If
side wall is 1/8", use in-line filter labeled USE WITH NYLON INNER
LINED HOSE. Ensure arrow on filter is pointing in direction of
refrigerant flow. Tighten hose clamps to 54 INCH lbs. (6 N.m). See
Fig. 22 .
8) Install pancake filter in liquid line between condenser
and condenser-to-evaporator line. Ensure filter inlet (label) is
toward condenser. Evacuate, charge, and leak test A/C system. See
EVACUATING A/C SYSTEM, CHARGING A/C SYSTEM and LEAK TESTING. Check
filters and hoses for clearance from other engine components. Use tie
straps if necessary.
9) Place an external cooling fan in front of radiator. Select
MAX A/C operation and set blower motor speed to maximum. Start engine
and allow to idle. Ensure A/C is operating properly. Slowly increase
engine speed to 800 RPM, then 1000 RPM, and then to 1200 RPM. With
engine speed set to 1200 RPM, operate engine for one hour with A/C
system operating.
10) Stop engine. Discharge A/C system, using approved
refrigerant recovery/recycling equipment. Remove pancake filter, hoses
and fittings. Discard pancake filter. Reconnect liquid line, evacuate,
charge, and leak test A/C system. Ensure A/C system is operating
properly.

VALVES. Connect 2 hoses with shutoff valves to manifold gauge set
center port. Connect one hose to vacuum pump and other hose to
refrigerant container. Weight of refrigerant container before and
after charging can be used to determine amount of refrigerant drawn
into system. Using vacuum pump, purge air from center hoses.
3) Fully open manifold gauge set low-side valve and
refrigerant container valve to allow refrigerant to enter A/C system.
When no more refrigerant is being drawn into A/C system, start engine
and allow to idle. Select MAX A/C, set blower motor speed to maximum
and allow remaining refrigerant to be drawn into A/C system.
NOTE: When ambient air temperature is high, it may be necessary to
use an external cooling fan to blow air through condenser and
radiator.
4) When proper amount of refrigerant has been added, close
refrigerant container valve. Allow any refrigerant remaining in hose
to be drawn into A/C system. When low-side pressure decreases to about
30 psi (2.1 kg/cm
), close center valve on manifold gauge set. Ensure
A/C system is operating properly. Disconnect manifold gauge set.
Install service port caps. Check system for leaks. See LEAK TESTING.
GENERAL MOTORS
Manufacturer recommends using A/C Refrigerant Recovery,
Recycling And Recharging (ACR4) System (J-39500). The ACR4 system ha\
s
one filtering cycle during recovery plus an automatic multiple pass
filtering during evacuation cycle. Follow manufacturer's instructions
provided with ACR4 equipment being used.
JEEP
Connect recovery/recycling equipment, meeting SAE standard
J1991 or J2210, to vehicle. Charge A/C system to specifications, using
equipment manufacturer's instructions.
LEAK TESTING
TYPES OF LEAK DETECTORS
Bubble Solution Detector
This is a solution applied externally at suspected leak
points. Leaking refrigerant will cause the detector to form bubbles
and foam. A soap and water solution also works well.
Dye Solution
This is a colored solution that may be introduced into the
A/C system. The dye will show up and color components at leak points.
Some manufacturers offer refrigerant containing a Red dye. This dye-
containing refrigerant is installed by normal charging procedures.
Other dye solutions are visible with a Black light only.
Electronic Leak Detector
This instrument will draw in any leaking refrigerant through
a test probe, and then sound an audible signal or create a flashing
light if refrigerant is found. It is the most sensitive of the leak
detectors used. Leak detectors are sensitive to windshield washing
solutions, many solvents and cleaners, and some adhesives. Ensure
surfaces near test areas are clean and dry to prevent false signal or
detector damage. Liquids ingested into detector will damage detector.
See Fig. 24 .

be detected if leak testing is performed too quickly.
BUBBLE DETECTOR LEAK TESTING PROCEDURE
This leak detection method is recommended when it is
impossible or difficult to determine the exact location of the leak
using other methods. Although commercial bubble detectors are more
effective, household soap solutions may be used.
Using the dauber that comes with the commercial soap
solution, apply the solution to all joints, connections, fittings or
controls where a leak might be suspected. If high-suds household
solutions are used, apply them with a small brush. Wherever bubbles
form, leaks are present and must be repaired. check the entire system
as there may be more than one leak.
ELECTRONIC LEAK TESTING PROCEDURE
NOTE: Some electronic leak detectors will function on only R-12
systems or on only R-134a systems, and some will function on
both R-12 and R-134a systems. Familiarize yourself with the
tester being used and know what type of system you are leak
testing.
Electronic leak detectors should be used in well ventilated
areas. Avoid using them around explosive gases. Always follow
manufacturer's instructions for the specific tester being used. If
none are available, proceed as follows:
1) Turn all controls and detector sensitivity knob to OFF
position or zero setting. Connect leak detector to an approved source
of power. Turn switch ON, and allow unit to warm up for approximately
5 minutes.
2) Check operation of tester by positioning probe in a
reference source where refrigerant is known to be present in small
amounts. Adjust controls and sensitivity knob until detector reacts
properly. Move probe away from refrigerant source and the reaction
should stop. If it continues, adjust the sensitivity knob to a lower
setting.
3) When tester reacts properly, leak test air conditioning
system by moving probe UNDER all components, fittings and connections.
Keep the probe moving. To check evaporator insert probe into drain
tube opening or a heater duct. DO NOT allow probe to contact
refrigerant or refrigerant oil. When leaks are found, repair them as
necessary. Keep in mind that there may be more than one leak.
DYE SOLUTION LEAK TESTING PROCEDURES
CAUTION: Dye-charged refrigerant cans are available to be used as
internal leak detectors. The use of this type of solution may
void some manufacturer's warranties. Be sure to check with
the A/C system manufacturer concerning the use of dye-charged
leak detectors. Dyes which work in R-12 systems will not work
in R-134a systems.
The following procedure is for introducing a dye solution,
not dye-charged refrigerant, into A/C system.
1) Connect manifold gauge set to air conditioning system in a
normal manner. Remove center hose from manifold gauge set, and replace
it with a short piece (6" long) of 1/4" tubing using two 1/4" flare
nuts. Connect a container of dye solution to the tubing.
2) Connect one end of gauge set center hose to dye solution
container. Connect a container of refrigerant to the other end of the
hose. Operate engine at idle speed. Set the air conditioning system
for maximum cooling. Slowly open the low-side hand valve to allow the

Fig. 2: Identifying Retainer Type Fuel Line Disconnect Fittings
Courtesy of Chrysler Corp.
ENGINE
Removal (Ram Van/Wagon)
1) Release fuel pressure. See FUEL PRESSURE RELEASE.
Disconnect negative battery cable. Drain cooling system and engine
oil. Remove and discard oil filter.
2) Remove engine cover, air cleaner and oil dipstick.
Discharge A/C system (if equipped) using approved refrigerant
recovery/recycling equipment. Disconnect A/C lines at condenser, and
plug openings. Remove A/C compressor. Disconnect fan shroud.
3) Remove front bumper, grille and support brace. Disconnect
coolant hoses. Remove radiator, condenser and support as an assembly.
4) Remove upper fan shroud. Remove power steering pump with
hoses attached, and set aside. Remove air pump, spark plug wires and
distributor cap. Disconnect necessary electrical wiring, coolant hoses
and vacuum hoses. Disconnect fuel lines. See FUEL LINE DISCONNECT

LUBRICATION SPECIFICATIONS TABLE - DIESEL







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Material  Condition  Specification 











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Engine Oil Ambient Temperature Above 10\bF SAE 15W-40 

(
1)  (-12\bC) To Over 30\bF (-1\bC)  












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Ambient Temperature Less Than  SAE 10W-30 

0\bF (-18\bC) To Over 30\bF(-1\bC) 












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Ambient Temperature Less Than  With Block Heater: 

-10\bF(-23\bC) Up To 0\bF (-18\bC) SAE 10W-30 

  Without Block Heater: 

  SAE 5W-30 











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Engine  All  50/50 Mixture Of 

Coolant   Distilled Water & 

  Ethylene Glycol 











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Brake Fluid  All  DOT 3 











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Automatic  All  ATF+2 Type 7176 

Transmission   

Fluid   











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Transfer Case All  ATF+2 Type 7176 

Fluid   Or DEXRON III ATF 











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Manual  All 75W-90 Synthc. API GL4 

Transmission   

Fluid   











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Steering  All  Mopar Multi-Mileage 

Linkage   Lubricant 

Lubricant   











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Wheel Bearing All High Temperature Multi-

Grease   -Purporse EP Grease 











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Rear Axle  All Mopar Hypoid Lubricant 

Lubricant   SAE 80W-90 

(
2)   GL-5 Gear Lube 











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4x4 Front  All Mopar Hypoid Lubricant 

Axle   SAE 80W-90 

Lubricant   GL-5 Gear Lube 











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Power  All  Mopar Power Steering 

Steering   Fluid Or Equivalant 

Fluid (
3)   Petroleum Based 











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Clutch  All  Multipurpose Grease 

Linkage   NLGI Grade 2 E.P. 

Lubricant   











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A/C  All  R-134a 

Refrigerant   











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A/C  All  Polyalkalene Glycol 

Refrigerant   SP
10 PAG 

Oil   Refrigerant Oil 











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