(6) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
heater core tube sealing plate to the heater core sup-
ply and return ports. Tighten the screw to 3 N´m (27
in. lbs.).
(7) Position the heater core shield onto the distri-
bution housing. Be certain that the two location tabs
on the front of the shield are engaged in the recepta-
cles in the two lower finger formations of the evapo-
rator housing near the dash panel.
(8) Install and tighten the three screws that secure
the heater core shield to the left end of the HVAC
distribution housing. Tighten the screws to 2 N´m (17
in. lbs.).
(9) Reinstall the silencer under the driver side end
of the instrument panel. (Refer to 23 - BODY/IN-
STRUMENT PANEL/INSTRUMENT PANEL
SILENCER - INSTALLATION).
(10) Reconnect the heater hoses to the heater hose
tubes. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITION-
ING/PLUMBING - FRONT/HEATER HOSE -
INSTALLATION).
(11) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
(12) Refill the engine cooling system. (Refer to 7 -
COOLING - STANDARD PROCEDURE - COOLING
SYSTEM REFILL).
INSTALLATION - HEATER CORE
WARNING: REFER TO THE APPLICABLE WARN-
INGS AND CAUTIONS FOR THIS SYSTEM BEFORE
PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING OPERATION.
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING FRONT - WARNING - HEATER PLUMB-
ING).
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT
DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISO-
LATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE,
THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR THE AIRBAG SYS-
TEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PER-
FORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS
IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DISABLE THE AIRBAG
SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRE-
CAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIR-
BAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL
INJURY.(1) While pushing the brake pedal downward and
pulling the accelerator pedal upward far enough for
clearance, slide the heater core into the distribution
housing.
(2) Install and tighten the two screws that secure
the heater core mounting plate to the distribution
housing. Tighten the screws to 2 N´m (17 in. lbs.).
(3) Remove the plugs or tape from the heater core
tube fittings and both heater core ports.
(4) Position both heater core tubes and the sealing
plate simultaneously to the heater core supply and
return ports.
(5) The heater core tubes each have a slot that
must be indexed to a location tab within each of the
heater core ports. Adjust the position of the tubes as
required so that the sealing plate fits flush against
the heater core supply and return ports, which indi-
cates that the tubes are properly indexed.
(6) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
heater core tube sealing plate to the heater core sup-
ply and return ports. Tighten the screw to 3 N´m (27
in. lbs.).
(7) Position the heater core shield onto the distri-
bution housing. Be certain that the two location tabs
on the front of the shield are engaged in the recepta-
cles in the two lower finger formations of the evapo-
rator housing near the dash panel.
(8) Install and tighten the three screws that secure
the heater core shield to the left end of the HVAC
distribution housing. Tighten the screws to 2 N´m (17
in. lbs.).
(9) Reconnect the power brake booster input rod
(push rod) to the pin on the brake pedal arm(Refer to
5 - BRAKES/HYDRAULIC/MECHANICAL/POWER
BRAKE BOOSTER - INSTALLATION).
(10) Reinstall the brake lamp switch into its
mounting bracket(Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/LAMPS/
LIGHTING - EXTERIOR/BRAKE LAMP SWITCH -
INSTALLATION).
(11) Reinstall the silencer boot around the base of
the lower steering shaft on the dash panel.
(12) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
(13) Refill the engine cooling system. (Refer to 7 -
COOLING - STANDARD PROCEDURE - COOLING
SYSTEM REFILL).
(14) Operate system for two thermostat cycles to
assure elimination of air in the system.
RSPLUMBING - FRONT24-77
HEATER CORE (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com
HEATER HOSE
REMOVAL
There are several heater core plumbing configura-
tions used on this model, depending upon the engine
size and other optional equipment. One plumbing
configuration is used for all 2.4L engines (Fig. 21),
while the 3.3L and 3.8L engines have unique heater
return plumbing on the engine for models with or
without an optional engine oil cooler (Fig. 24) or (Fig.
25). There are also unique plumbing configurations
at the heater core for models with or without the
optional rear heater and air conditioner (Fig. 22) or
(Fig. 23). All models use a combination of formed
steel tubing and rubber hoses. In most cases, the
rubber hose is secured to the steel tubing with a
spring tension clamp.
WARNING: REFER TO THE APPLICABLE WARN-
INGS AND CAUTIONS FOR THIS SYSTEM BEFORE
PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING OPERATION.
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING FRONT - WARNING - HEATER PLUMB-
ING).(1) Drain the engine cooling system. (Refer to 7 -
COOLING - STANDARD PROCEDURE - COOLING
SYSTEM DRAIN).
(2) Using spring tension clamp pliers, compress
and slide the clamps that secure each end of the
heater hose to the tube or nipple toward the center of
the hose to be removed. Release the clamp when it is
off of the tube or nipple.
Fig. 22 Heater Plumbing - 3.3/3.8L Engine w/o Rear
Heater
1 - ENGINE OUTLET NIPPLE
2 - HEATER CORE OUTLET
3 - HEATER CORE INLET
4 - HEATER RETURN TUBE & HOSE (TYPICAL)
Fig. 23 Heater Plumbing - 3.3/3.8L Engine w/Rear
Heater
1 - STUD
2 - HEATER CORE OUTLET
3 - HEATER CORE INLET
4 - TO ENGINE OUTLET NIPPLE
5 - TO UNDERBODY PLUMBING
6 - TO HEATER RETURN TUBE & HOSE
Fig. 21 Heater Plumbing - 2.4L Engine
1 - ENGINE OUTLET NIPPLE
2 - HEATER SUPPLY
3 - HEATER CORE OUTLET
4 - HEATER CORE INLET
5 - SCREW
6 - HEATER TUBE & HOSE UNIT
7 - HEATER RETURN
8 - ENGINE INLET NIPPLE
24 - 78 PLUMBING - FRONTRS
ProCarManuals.com
CAUTION:
When removing the heater hose from the heater
core or supply and return tube nipples, DO NOT
apply excessive pressure. Excessive pressure may
damage or deform the nipples and/or the heater
core causing an engine coolant leak.(3) After the clamp has been moved, grasp the end
of the hose firmly and carefully twist the hose back
and forth while pulling it away from the barbed end
of the nipple. Repeat this procedure at the opposite
end of the hose being removed. If this procedure is
not successful in removing the hose from the nipple,
carefully make a parallel cut through the hose where
it is engaged on the nipple and peel the hose off of
the nipple. This method of removal will require
heater hose replacement.
INSTALLATION
There are several heater core plumbing configura-
tions used on this model, depending upon the engine
size and other optional equipment. One plumbing
configuration is used for all 2.4L engines, while the
3.3L and 3.8L engines have unique heater return
plumbing on the engine for models with or without
an optional engine oil cooler. There are also unique
plumbing configurations at the heater core for mod-
els with or without the optional rear heater and air
conditioner. All models use a combination of formed
steel tubing and rubber hoses. In most cases, the
rubber hose is secured to the steel tubing with a
spring tension clamp.
WARNING: REFER TO THE APPLICABLE WARN-
INGS AND CAUTIONS FOR THIS SYSTEM BEFORE
PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING OPERATION.
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING FRONT - WARNING - HEATER PLUMB-
ING).
(1) Using spring tension clamp pliers, compress
and slide the clamps that secure each end of the
heater hose toward the center of the hose being
installed. Release the clamp when it is near the cen-
ter of the hose.
(2) Grasp one end of the heater hose being
installed firmly and carefully twist the hose back and
forth while pushing it over from the barbed end of
the nipple. Repeat this procedure at the opposite end
of the hose being installed.
(3) Using spring tension clamp pliers, compress
and slide the clamps that secure each end of the
heater hose over the tube or nipple. Release the
clamp when it is over the tube or nipple.
(4) Refill the engine cooling system. (Refer to 7 -
COOLING - STANDARD PROCEDURE - COOLING
SYSTEM REFILL).
Fig. 24 Heater Return - 3.3/3.8L Engine w/o Oil
Cooler
1 - WATER PUMP RETURN NIPPLE
2 - HEATER RETURN TUBE & HOSE
3 - SCREW
4 - SCREW
Fig. 25 Heater Return - 3.3/3.8L Engine w/Oil Cooler
1 - ENGINE INLET NIPPLE
2 - HEATER RETURN TUBE & HOSE
3 - SCREW
4 - SCREW
5 - OIL COOLER
6 - HEATER RETURN HOSE
RSPLUMBING - FRONT24-79
HEATER HOSE (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com
INSTALLATION
(1) With vehicle on a lift position the heater pipe
assembly and install the retaining screws.
(2) Install the heater unit intake pipe to the
heater unit(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING/CABIN HEATER/INLET HOSE - INSTAL-
LATION).
(3) Connect heater hoses to the heater unit and
tighten the clamps.
(4) Install heater unit intake pipe to heater unit
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
CABIN HEATER/INLET HOSE - INSTALLATION).
(5) Lower vehicle on lift.
(6) Install retaining nut to heater line under hood
bracket and tighten.
(7) Connect heater lines to heater hoses at heater
core and EGR port. Position spring clamps onto the
installed hoses.
(8) Refill cooling system(Refer to 7 - COOLING -
STANDARD PROCEDURE).
(9) Close hood.
LIQUID LINE
REMOVAL
The front air conditioner liquid line is serviced in two
sections. The front section connects between the con-
denser and the filter/drier and includes the high side
service port on the fitting for the filter/drier. The rear
section connects between the filter/drier and the expan-
sion valve and includes the fitting for the A/C pressure
transducer. On models equipped with the optional rear
air conditioner, the rear section of the front air condi-
tioner liquid line also includes a liquid line hose and
tube extension that connects the front liquid line to the
liquid line for the rear air conditioner.
WARNING: REFER TO THE APPLICABLE WARN-
INGS AND CAUTIONS FOR THIS SYSTEM BEFORE
PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING OPERATION.
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - FRONT - WARNING - A/C PLUMBING)
and (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - FRONT - CAUTION - A/C PLUMBING).
FRONT SECTION
(1)
Recover the refrigerant from the refrigerant sys-
tem. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - FRONT/REFRIGERANT - STANDARD
PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT RECOVERY).
(2)Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable.
(3) Remove the air cleaner housing from the right
side of the engine compartment.
(4) Remove the two large screws that secure the
front fascia and the outboard ends of the radiator
sight shield to the radiator closure panel crossmem-
ber (Fig. 28).
Fig. 27 AIR INTAKE AND HEATER PIPE ASSEMBLY
1 - INTAKE TUBE AIR INTAKE
2 - INTAKE PIPE
3 - RETAINING SCREWS
4 - INTAKE HEATER LINE
5 - RETURN HEATER LINE
Fig. 28 Radiator Sight Shield
1 - LARGE SCREWS (2)
2 - SMALL SCREWS (5)
3 - RADIATOR SIGHT SHIELD
4 - GRILLE INSERTS
5 - FRONT FASCIA
24 - 82 PLUMBING - FRONTRS
HEATER PIPES - DIESEL SUPPLEMENTAL HEATER - BUX (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com
REFRIGERANT
DESCRIPTION
The refrigerant used in this air conditioning sys-
tem is a HydroFluoroCarbon (HFC), type R-134a.
Unlike R-12, which is a ChloroFluoroCarbon (CFC),
R-134a refrigerant does not contain ozone-depleting
chlorine. R-134a refrigerant is a non-toxic, non-flam-
mable, clear, and colorless liquefied gas. Even though
R-134a does not contain chlorine, it must be
reclaimed and recycled just like CFC-type refriger-
ants. This is because R-134a is a greenhouse gas and
can contribute to global warming.
OPERATION
R-134a refrigerant is not compatible with R-12
refrigerant in an air conditioning system. Even a
small amount of R-12 added to an R-134a refrigerant
system will cause compressor failure, refrigerant oil
sludge or poor air conditioning system performance.
In addition, the PolyAlkylene Glycol (PAG) synthetic
refrigerant oils used in an R-134a refrigerant system
are not compatible with the mineral-based refriger-
ant oils used in an R-12 refrigerant system. R-134a
refrigerant system service ports, service tool couplers
and refrigerant dispensing bottles have all been
designed with unique fittings to ensure that an
R-134a system is not accidentally contaminated with
the wrong refrigerant (R-12). There are also labels
posted in the engine compartment of the vehicle and
on the compressor identifying to service technicians
that the air conditioning system is equipped with
R-134a.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - REFRIGERANT
SYSTEM CHARGE 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 - FRONT - WARNING - A/C PLUMBING)
and (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - FRONT - CAUTION - A/C PLUMBING).
NOTE: The proper amount of R-134a refrigerant for
the refrigerant system in this model is:
²Single or Dual Zone (Front Unit Only) - 0.96
kilograms (2.13 pounds or 34 ounces)
²Three Zone (Front and Rear Units) - 1.31 kilo-
grams (2.88 pounds or 46 ounces)The procedure that follows should be used to deter-
mine whether the refrigerant system contains the
proper refrigerant charge. Symptoms of an improper
refrigerant charge (low) include: poor air conditioner
performance, fog emitted from the air conditioner
outlets, a hissing sound from the expansion valve/
evaporator area. There are two different methods
with which the refrigerant charge level may be
tested:
²Using a DRBIIItscan tool, a thermocouple and
the Charge Determination Chart (Fig. 33). Refer to
the appropriate diagnostic information.
²Using a manifold gauge set, a thermocouple and
the Charge Determination Chart (Fig. 33).
A temperature probe is required to measure liquid
line temperature. The clamp-on, Type K thermocou-
ple temperature probe used in this procedure is
available through the DaimlerChrysler Professional
Service Equipment (PSE) program. This probe (PSE
#66-324-0014 or #80PK-1A) is compatible with tem-
perature-measuring instruments that accept Type K
thermocouples, and have a miniature connector
input. Other temperature probes are available
through aftermarket sources; however, all references
in this procedure will reflect the use of the probe
made available through the PSE program.
In order to use the temperature probe, a digital
thermometer will also be required. If a digital ther-
mometer is not available, an adapter is available
through the PSE program that will convert any stan-
dard digital multimeter into a digital thermometer.
This adapter is designed to accept any standard Type
K thermocouple. If a digital multimeter is not avail-
able, this tool is also available through the PSE pro-
gram.
NOTE: When connecting the service equipment
couplings to the refrigerant system service ports,
be certain that the valve of each coupling is fully
closed. This will reduce the amount of effort
required to make the connection.
(1) Remove the caps from the refrigerant system
service ports and attach a manifold gauge set or a
R-134a refrigerant recovery/recycling/charging sta-
tion that meets SAE Standard J2210 to the refriger-
ant system.
(2) Attach a clamp-on thermocouple to the liquid
line. The thermocouple must be placed as close to the
A/C pressure transducer as possible to accurately
observe liquid line temperature.
(3) Bring the refrigerant system up to operating
temperature and pressure. This is done by allowing
the engine to run at idle under the following condi-
tions for five minutes.
(a) Front windows are open.
(b) Transaxle in Park.
RSPLUMBING - FRONT24-87
ProCarManuals.com
location of a possible refrigerant leak, the exact leak
location should be confirmed with an electronic leak
detector prior to component repair or replacement.
An electronic leak detector designed for R-134a
refrigerant is recommended for locating and confirm-
ing refrigerant system leaks. See the operating
instructions supplied by the equipment manufacturer
for proper care and use of this equipment.
To detect a leak in the refrigerant system, perform
one of the following procedures as indicated by the
results of the refrigerant system charge level test.
SYSTEM EMPTY
(1) Evacuate the refrigerant system. (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
FRONT/REFRIGERANT - STANDARD PROCE-
DURE - REFRIGERANT SYSTEM EVACUATE).
(2) Connect and dispense 0.283 kilograms (0.625
pounds or 10 ounces) of R-134a refrigerant into the
evacuated refrigerant system. (Refer to 24 - HEAT-
ING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING - FRONT/
REFRIGERANT - STANDARD PROCEDURE -
REFRIGERANT SYSTEM CHARGE).
(3) Proceed to the SYSTEM LOW procedures.
SYSTEM LOW
(1) Position the vehicle in a wind-free work area.
This will aid in detecting small leaks.
(2) Bring the refrigerant system up to operating
temperature and pressure. This is done by allowing
the engine to run at idle under the following condi-
tions for five minutes, then turning the engine off.
(a) Front windows are open.
(b) Rear air conditioner Off (if equipped).
(c) Transaxle in Park.
(d) Front heater-A/C controls set to outside air,
panel mode, blower high, and compressor engaged.
(3) Wait five to seven minutes and, with the
engine not running, use a electronic R-134a leak
detector and search for leaks. Because R-134a refrig-
erant is heavier than air, the leak detector probe
should be moved slowly along the bottom side of all
refrigerant lines, connector fittings and components.
(4) To inspect an evaporator for leaks, insert the
electronic leak detector probe into a floor outlet or
the recirculation air intake.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - REFRIGERANT
SYSTEM CHARGE LEVEL 2.5L DIESEL
WARNING: REFER TO THE APPLICABLE WARN-
INGS AND CAUTIONS FOR THIS SYSTEM BEFORE
PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING OPERATION.
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - FRONT - WARNING - A/C PLUMBING)and (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - FRONT - CAUTION - A/C PLUMBING).
NOTE: The proper amount of R-134a refrigerant for
the refrigerant system in this model is:
²Single or Dual Zone (Front Unit Only - 2.5L Die-
sel) ± 0.91 kilograms (2.00 pounds or 32 ounces)
²Single or Dual Zone (Front Unit Only) - 0.96
kilograms (2.13 pounds or 34 ounces)
²Three Zone (Front and Rear Units) - 1.31 kilo-
grams (2.88 pounds or 46 ounces)
The procedure that follows should be used to deter-
mine whether the refrigerant system contains the
proper refrigerant charge. Symptoms of an improper
refrigerant charge (low) include: poor air conditioner
performance, fog emitted from the air conditioner
outlets, a hissing sound from the expansion valve/
evaporator area. There are two different methods
with which the refrigerant charge level may be
tested:
²Using a DRBIIItscan tool, a thermocouple and
the Charge Determination Chart (Fig. 34). Refer to
the appropriate diagnostic information.
²Using a manifold gauge set, a thermocouple and
the Charge Determination Chart (Fig. 34).
A temperature probe is required to measure liquid
line temperature. The clamp-on, Type K thermocou-
ple temperature probe used in this procedure is
available through the DaimlerChrysler Professional
Service Equipment (PSE) program. This probe (PSE
#66-324-0014 or #80PK-1A) is compatible with tem-
perature-measuring instruments that accept Type K
thermocouples, and have a miniature connector
input. Other temperature probes are available
through aftermarket sources; however, all references
in this procedure will reflect the use of the probe
made available through the PSE program.
In order to use the temperature probe, a digital
thermometer will also be required. If a digital ther-
mometer is not available, an adapter is available
through the PSE program that will convert any stan-
dard digital multimeter into a digital thermometer.
This adapter is designed to accept any standard Type
K thermocouple. If a digital multimeter is not avail-
able, this tool is also available through the PSE pro-
gram.
NOTE: When connecting the service equipment
couplings to the refrigerant system service ports,
be certain that the valve of each coupling is fully
closed. This will reduce the amount of effort
required to make the connection.
(1) Remove the caps from the refrigerant system
service ports and attach a manifold gauge set or a
R-134a refrigerant recovery/recycling/charging sta-
RSPLUMBING - FRONT24-89
REFRIGERANT (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com
INSTALLATION
NOTE: If the rear heater core or the rear heater-A/C
housing have been removed from the vehicle for
service, the rear heater core may be pre-filled with
the proper engine coolant mixture prior to recon-
necting the heater hoses to the heater core hose fit-
tings. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - REAR/HEATER CORE - STANDARD
PROCEDURE - HEATER CORE FILLING).
(1) Carefully slide the heater core into the rear
heater-A/C unit housing.
(2) Using hand pressure, press firmly and evenly
on the heater core end plate until the four latch tabs
that secure the heater core in the rear heater-A/C
unit housing are fully engaged (Fig. 5).
(3) Remove the plugs or tape from the heater core
fittings and both heater hoses.
(4) Reconnect the heater hoses to the rear heater
core. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITION-
ING/PLUMBING - REAR/HEATER HOSE - INSTAL-
LATION).
(5) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
front of the rear heater-A/C unit housing to the right
quarter inner panel. Tighten the screw to 11 N´m (97
in. lbs.).
(6) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
back of the rear heater-A/C unit housing to the right
D-pillar. Tighten the screw to 11 N´m (97 in. lbs.).
(7) Reinstall the rear heater distribution duct onto
the right quarter inner panel. (Refer to 24 - HEAT-ING & AIR CONDITIONING/DISTRIBUTION -
REAR/REAR HEATER DISTRIBUTION DUCT -
INSTALLATION).
(8) Remove the right quarter trim panel and right
D-pillar trim panel from the quarter inner panel.
(Refer to 23 - BODY/INTERIOR/QUARTER TRIM
PANEL - INSTALLATION).
(9) Drain the engine cooling system. (Refer to 7 -
COOLING - STANDARD PROCEDURE - COOLING
SYSTEM REFILL).
HEATER HOSE
REMOVAL
REFER TO THE APPLICABLE WARNINGS AND
CAUTIONS FOR THIS SYSTEM BEFORE PER-
FORMING THE FOLLOWING OPERATION. (Refer
to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMB-
ING FRONT - WARNING - HEATER PLUMBING).
(1) Partially drain engine cooling system. Refer to
Group 7, Engine Cooling.
(2) Loosen clamp at the front end of the hose
located at the right, outboard side of the underbody,
rearward of the front crossmember. (Fig. 9)
(3) Carefully rotate hose back and forth while tug-
ging slightly away from connector nipple. If the hose
will not come off, slice the hose at the connector nip-
ple and peel off heater hose. This method will require
heater hose replacement.
CAUTION:
When removing hoses from outlet nipples, do not
use excessive force. Outlet nipples may become
damaged and leak engine coolant.
(4) Compress insert in rear heater hose quick con-
nection and pull downward on hose. (Fig. 11)
(5) Remove (3) straps securing underbody lines.
(Fig. 8)
(6) Separate and remove rear heater lines from
vehicle.
INSTALLATION
There are several heater core plumbing configura-
tions used on this model, depending upon the engine
size and other optional equipment. One plumbing
configuration is used for all 2.4L engines, while the
3.3L and 3.8L engines have unique heater return
plumbing on the engine for models with or without
an optional engine oil cooler. There are also unique
plumbing configurations at the heater core for mod-
els with or without the optional rear heater and air
conditioner. All models use a combination of formed
steel tubing and rubber hoses. In most cases, the
rubber hose is secured to the steel tubing with a
spring tension clamp.
Fig. 5 Heater Core
1 - REAR HEATER-A/C HOUSING OUTLET
2 - REAR HEATER-A/C UNIT HOUSING
3 - LATCH (4)
4 - HEATER CORE
5 - RIGHT REAR WHEEL HOUSE
6 - HEATER HOSES
RSPLUMBING - REAR24 - 103
HEATER CORE (Continued)
ProCarManuals.com
WARNING: REFER TO THE APPLICABLE WARN-
INGS AND CAUTIONS FOR THIS SYSTEM BEFORE
PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING OPERATION.
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING FRONT - WARNING - HEATER PLUMB-
ING).
(1) Using spring tension clamp pliers, compress
and slide the clamps that secure each end of the
heater hose toward the center of the hose being
installed. Release the clamp when it is near the cen-
ter of the hose.
(2) Grasp one end of the heater hose being
installed firmly and carefully twist the hose back and
forth while pushing it over from the barbed end of
the nipple. Repeat this procedure at the opposite end
of the hose being installed.
(3) Using spring tension clamp pliers, compress
and slide the clamps that secure each end of the
heater hose over the tube or nipple. Release the
clamp when it is over the tube or nipple.
(4) Refill the engine cooling system. (Refer to 7 -
COOLING - STANDARD PROCEDURE - COOLING
SYSTEM REFILL).
SUCTION LINE
REMOVAL
The front air conditioner suction line includes the
low side service port on a section of tubing located
near the compressor. On models equipped with the
optional rear air conditioner, the front air conditioner
suction line also includes a suction line hose and
tube extension that connects the front suction line to
the suction line for the rear air conditioner.
WARNING: REFER TO THE APPLICABLE WARN-
INGS AND CAUTIONS FOR THIS SYSTEM BEFORE
PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING OPERATION.
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - FRONT - WARNING - A/C PLUMBING)
and (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - FRONT - CAUTION - A/C PLUMBING).
(1) Recover the refrigerant from the refrigerant
system. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING/PLUMBING - FRONT/REFRIGERANT -
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT
RECOVERY).
(2) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(3) Remove the air cleaner top cover and snorkel
from the air cleaner housing located on the right side
of the engine compartment.(4) Disconnect the drain tube from the wiper mod-
ule drain on the right side of the engine compart-
ment.
(5) Remove the nut that secures the suction line
fitting to the top of the compressor.
(6) Disconnect the suction line fitting from the
compressor suction port.
(7) Remove the seal from the suction line fitting
and discard.
(8) Install plugs in, or tape over the opened suc-
tion line fitting and the compressor suction port.
(9) Disengage the retainer that secures the suction
line routing clip to the filter-drier mounting bracket
on the side of the right front strut tower in the
engine compartment (Fig. 6).
(10) Remove the nut that secures the suction line
and liquid line fittings to the expansion valve.
(11) Disconnect the suction line and liquid line fit-
tings from the expansion valve.
(12) Remove the seals from the suction line and
liquid line fittings and discard.
(13) Install plugs in, or tape over the opened suc-
tion line and liquid line fittings and both expansion
valve ports.
Fig. 6 Suction Line
1 - EXPANSION VALVE
2 - SUCTION LINE EXTENSION (REAR A/C ONLY)
3 - NUT
4 - ROUTING CLIP
5 - SUCTION LINE
24 - 104 PLUMBING - REARRS
HEATER HOSE (Continued)
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