2003 DODGE RAM Service Repair Manual

power steering park assist hood open refrigerant type wheel CD changer

Page 2801 of 2895

DODGE RAM 2003 Service Repair Manual DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BLOWER MOTOR
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT
DIAGNO

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BLOWER MOTOR
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 AN ACCIDENTAL
AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL
INJURY.
For circuit descriptions and diagrams, (Refer to
Appropriate Wiring Information). Possible causes of
an inoperative blower motor include:
²Faulty fuse
²Faulty blower motor circuit wiring or wire har-
ness connectors
²Faulty blower motor resistor
²Faulty blower motor relay
²Faulty blower motor switch
²Faulty A/C Heater mode control switch
²Faulty blower motor.
Possible causes of the blower motor not operating
in all speeds include:
²Faulty blower motor switch
²Faulty blower motor resistor
²Faulty blower motor circuit wiring or wire har-
ness connectors.
VIBRATION
Possible causes of blower motor vibration include:
²Improper blower motor mounting
²Improper blower wheel mounting
²Blower wheel out of balance or bent
²Blower motor faulty.
NOISE
To verify that the blower is the source of the noise,
unplug the blower motor wire harness connector and
operate the HVAC system. If the noise goes away,
possible causes include:
²Foreign material in the HVAC housing
²Improper blower motor mounting
²Improper blower wheel mounting
²Blower motor faulty.
REMOVAL
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERINGCOLUMN, 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 AN ACCIDENTAL
AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL
INJURY.
The blower motor is located on the passenger side
of the vehicle under the dash
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Unplug the blower motor wire harness connec-
tor (Fig. 3).
(3) Remove the three screws that secure the
blower motor and wheel assembly to the HVAC hous-
ing.
(4) Rotate and tilt the blower motor unit as needed
for clearance to remove the blower motor and wheel
from the HVAC housing.
INSTALLATION
(1) Align and install the blower motor and wheel
assembly into the HVAC housing.
(2) Install the three mounting screws and tighten
to 2.2 N´m (20 in. lbs.).
Fig. 3 Blower Motor Assembly- (Case Removed
from vehicle for graphic)
1 - Blower Motor Resistor Mounting Screws (2)
2 - Blower Motor Resistor
3 - Blower Motor Resistor Connector
4 - Blower Motor Mounting Screw
5 - Blower Motor Assmebly
6 - Blower Motor Wire
7 - Blower Motor Mounting Screw
8 - HVAC Housing
9 - Blower Motor Wire Hold Down
10 - Blower Motor Mounting Screw
24 - 26 DISTRIBUTIONDR
BLOWER MOTOR (Continued)

Page 2802 of 2895

DODGE RAM 2003 Service Repair Manual (3) Plug in the blower motor wire harness connec-
tor.
(4) Connect the battery negative cable.
DEFROST DOOR
REMOVAL - DEFROST DOOR
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYST

(3) Plug in the blower motor wire harness connec-
tor.
(4) Connect the battery negative cable.
DEFROST DOOR
REMOVAL - DEFROST DOOR
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 AN ACCIDENTAL
AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL
INJURY.
WARNING: (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING/PLUMBING - WARNING) and (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING - CAU-
TION).
(1) Recover refrigerant(Refer to 24 - HEATING &
AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING - STANDARD
PROCEDURE).
(2) Remove and disassemble the HVAC housing.
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
DISTRIBUTION/HVAC HOUSING - REMOVAL)
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
DISTRIBUTION/HVAC HOUSING - DISASSEMBLY)
(3) Remove the defrost door actuator.
(4) Remove the defrost door from the HVAC hous-
ing, by first removing the actuator if not already
removed. Then carefully move the door so that one
pivot point cleans then tilt and lift the door out of
the HVAC housing.
INSTALLATION - DEFROST DOOR
(1) Install the defrost door in the HVAC housing.
(2) Install the defrost door actuator.
(3) Assemble the HVAC housing. (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/DISTRIBUTION/
HVAC HOUSING - ASSEMBLY)
(4) Install the HVAC housing in the vehicle. (Refer
to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/DISTRI-
BUTION/HVAC HOUSING - INSTALLATION)
(5) Run calibration test.
FLOOR DISTRIBUTION DUCTS
REMOVAL
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 AN ACCIDENTAL
AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL
INJURY.
(1) Remove the screws that secure the floor duct to
the HVAC housing.
(2) Remove the floor duct from the HVAC housing.
INSTALLATION
(1) Install the floor duct on the HVAC housing.
(2) Install the screws that secure the floor duct to
the HVAC housing. Tighten the mounting screws to
2.2 N´m (20 in. lbs.).
(3) Install the battery negative cable.
HVAC HOUSING
REMOVAL
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 AN ACCIDENTAL
AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL
INJURY.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Remove the instrument panel from the vehi-
cle(Refer to 23 - BODY/INSTRUMENT PANEL -
REMOVAL).
DRDISTRIBUTION 24 - 27
BLOWER MOTOR (Continued)

Page 2803 of 2895

DODGE RAM 2003 Service Repair Manual (3) Recover the refrigerant from the refrigerant
system. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING/PLUMBING - STANDARD PROCEDURE -
REFRIGERANT RECOVERY)
(4) Disconnect the liquid line refrigerant li

(3) Recover the refrigerant from the refrigerant
system. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING/PLUMBING - STANDARD PROCEDURE -
REFRIGERANT RECOVERY)
(4) Disconnect the liquid line refrigerant line fit-
ting from the evaporator inlet tube (Fig. 4). (Refer to
24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING
- STANDARD PROCEDURE - A/C LINE COU-
PLERS)
(5) Disconnect the accumulator inlet tube refriger-
ant line fitting from the evaporator outlet tube.
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - STANDARD PROCEDURE - A/C LINE
COUPLERS) Install plugs in, or tape over all of the
opened refrigerant line fittings.
(6) Drain the engine cooling system(Refer to 7 -
COOLING - STANDARD PROCEDURE).(7) Disconnect the heater hoses from the heater
core tubes. Install plugs in, or tape over the opened
heater core tubes.
(8) Unplug all electrical connectors from the actua-
tors and blower motor.
(9) Remove the nuts from the HVAC housing
mounting studs.
(10) Remove the HVAC housing from inside the
vehicle taking care not to allow any remaining cool-
ant to drain on the vehicles interior.
DISASSEMBLY
(1) Remove the HVAC housing from the vehicle
and place it on the workbench. (Refer to 24 - HEAT-
ING & AIR CONDITIONING/DISTRIBUTION/HVAC
HOUSING - REMOVAL)
(2) Unplug the electrical connectors from each
actuator.
(3) Remove the HVAC assembly wiring harness
from the HVAC case.
(4) Remove the blower motor and blower wheel
unit from the HVAC housing. (Refer to 24 - HEAT-
ING & AIR CONDITIONING/DISTRIBUTION/
BLOWER MOTOR - REMOVAL)
(5) Remove the heater core mounting screws and
carefully remove the heater core assembly(Refer to
24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING/
HEATER CORE - REMOVAL).
(6) Carefully remove the foam seals from the
heater core and evaporator coil tube mounting flange
of the HVAC housing. If the either seal is deformed
or damaged it must be replaced.
(7) Use a screwdriver to pry off the four snap clips
that help secure the upper and lower HVAC housing
halves together.
(8) Remove the screws that secure the upper and
lower HVAC housing halves together.
(9) Carefully separate the upper HVAC housing
from the lower half.
ASSEMBLY
(1) Assemble the upper HVAC housing half to the
lower half. During assembly, be certain of the follow-
ing.
(a) That each of the mode door pivot shaft ends
and the temperature blend door shafts are properly
engaged in there pivot holes.
(b) That the blower motor is properly indexed
and installed.
(c) If the unit is equipped with air conditioning,
that the evaporator coil tube rubber seal is prop-
erly positioned in the grooves in both the upper
and lower HVAC housing halves.
(d) That the evaporator drain opening is clean.
(e) That the evaporator drain shield is installed
correctly.
Fig. 4 HVAC Housing - Dual Zone Shown (Typical -
Single Zone)
1 - Mounting Nut
2 - Passenger Blend Door Actuator (dual zone)
3 - Mounting Nut
4 - Air Intake Spacer
5 - Recirculation Door Actuator
6 - Recirculation Door Assembly
7 - Driver Side Blend Door Actuator
8 - HVAC Housing
9 - Mounting Screw
10 - Defroster Door Actuator
11 - Panel Actuator
24 - 28 DISTRIBUTIONDR
HVAC HOUSING (Continued)

Page 2804 of 2895

DODGE RAM 2003 Service Repair Manual (2) Install the screws and snap clips that secure
the upper and lower HVAC housing halves to each
other. Tighten the screws to 2.2 N´m (20 in. lbs.).
(3) Install the blower motor and wheel unit in th

(2) Install the screws and snap clips that secure
the upper and lower HVAC housing halves to each
other. Tighten the screws to 2.2 N´m (20 in. lbs.).
(3) Install the blower motor and wheel unit in the
HVAC housing. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CON-
DITIONING/DISTRIBUTION/BLOWER MOTOR -
INSTALLATION)
(4) Install the foam seals on the flanges around
the heater core and evaporator coil tube mounting
flange of the HVAC housing. Repair or replace any
seals as required.
(5) Install the electrical wiring harness for the
acutators. Make sure the wires are routed through
all wiring retainers, replace any retainers that are
damaged or missing.
(6) Connect the wiring harness to each actuator,
making sure each connector is securely attached.
INSTALLATION
WARNING: IF THE VEHICLE IS EQUIPPED WITH AIR
CONDITIONING, REVIEW THE WARNINGS AND
CAUTIONS IN PLUMBING BEFORE PERFORMING
THE FOLLOWING OPERATION. (Refer to 24 - HEAT-
ING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING - WARNING)
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - CAUTION) (Refer to 24 - HEATING &
AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING - CAUTION -
REFRIGERANT HOSES/LINES/TUBES PRECAU-
TIONS)
(1) Position the HVAC housing to the dash panel.
Be certain that the evaporator condensate drain tube
and the housing mounting studs are inserted into
their correct mounting holes.
(2) Install and tighten the nuts onto the HVAC
housing mounting studs. Tighten the nuts to 6.2 N´m
(55 in.lbs.).
(3) Connect the HVAC system electrical connec-
tors.
(4) Unplug or remove the tape from the heater
core tubes. Connect the heater hoses to the heater
core tubes and fill the engine cooling system(Refer to
7 - COOLING/ENGINE - STANDARD PROCE-
DURE).
(5) Unplug or remove the tape from the liquid line
and the evaporator inlet tube fittings. Connect the
liquid line coupler to the evaporator inlet tube. (Refer
to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMB-
ING - STANDARD PROCEDURE - A/C LINE COU-
PLERS)(6) Evacuate the refrigerant system. (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT SYS-
TEM EVACUATE)
(7) Charge the refrigerant system. (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT SYS-
TEM CHARGE)
(8) Install the instrument panel in the vehicle(Re-
fer to 23 - BODY/INSTRUMENT PANEL - INSTAL-
LATION).
(9) Connect the battery negative cable.
(10) Start the engine and check for proper opera-
tion of the heating and air conditioning systems.
(11) Run the calibration procedure.
INSTRUMENT PANEL DUCTS
REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Remove the HVAC assembly from the vehi-
cle(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
DISTRIBUTION/HVAC HOUSING - REMOVAL).
(3) Disasemble the HVAC housing(Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/DISTRIBUTION/
HVAC HOUSING - DISASSEMBLY).
(4) Remove the panel door actuator from the hous-
ing if not already removed.
(5) With the actuator removed you can take the
door and shift it so that one pivot point will clear the
housing. You can then tilt the door and remove it
from the housing.
INSTALLATION
(1) Take the door and tilt it so one pivot point is
installed. The carfully install the second pivot point.
Check to be sure no binding of the door is occuring,
repair as required.
(2) Reassemble the HVAC housing(Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/DISTRIBUTION/
HVAC HOUSING - ASSEMBLY).
(3) Install the HVAC assembly into the vehicle(Re-
fer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/DIS-
TRIBUTION/INSTRUMENT PANEL DUCTS -
INSTALLATION).
(4) Connect the battery negative cable.
DRDISTRIBUTION 24 - 29
HVAC HOUSING (Continued)

Page 2805 of 2895

DODGE RAM 2003 Service Repair Manual MODE DOOR
REMOVAL - FLOOR - DEFROST DOOR
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE AIRBAG SYSTEM BEFORE
ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING WHEEL, STEERING
COLUMN, OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT
DI

MODE DOOR
REMOVAL - FLOOR - DEFROST DOOR
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 AN ACCIDENTAL
AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL
INJURY.
WARNING: (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDI-
TIONING/PLUMBING - WARNING) and (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING - CAU-
TION).
(1) Remove and disassemble the HVAC housing.
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
DISTRIBUTION/HVAC HOUSING - REMOVAL)
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
DISTRIBUTION/HVAC HOUSING - DISASSEMBLY)
(2) Remove the floor door actuator from the lower
HVAC housing. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CON-
DITIONING/CONTROLS/MODE DOOR ACTUATOR
- REMOVAL - FLOOR DOOR ACTUATOR)
(3) Take the defrost door and shift it so that one
pivot point clears the door and remove from the
HVAC housing.
INSTALLATION - FLOOR - DEFROST DOOR
(1) Install the floor-defrost door in the HVAC hous-
ing by placing the door in the lower housing.
(2) Assemble the HVAC housing. (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/DISTRIBUTION/
HVAC HOUSING - ASSEMBLY)
(3) Install the floor door actuator to the lower
HVAC housing. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CON-
DITIONING/CONTROLS/MODE DOOR ACTUATOR
- INSTALLATION - FLOOR DOOR ACTUATOR)
(4) Install the HVAC housing in the vehicle. (Refer
to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/DISTRI-
BUTION/HVAC HOUSING - INSTALLATION)
RECIRC DOOR
REMOVAL
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 AN ACCIDENTAL
AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL
INJURY.
WARNING: IF THE VEHICLE IS EQUIPPED WITH AIR
CONDITIONING, REVIEW THE WARNINGS AND
CAUTIONS IN PLUMBING BEFORE PERFORMING
THE FOLLOWING OPERATION. (Refer to 24 - HEAT-
ING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING - WARNING)
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - CAUTION)
(1) Remove the HVAC housing and disassemble.
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
DISTRIBUTION/HVAC HOUSING - REMOVAL)
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
DISTRIBUTION/HVAC HOUSING - DISASSEMBLY)
(2) Remove the four screws to remove the recircu-
lation door assembly. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR
CONDITIONING/CONTROLS/RECIRCULATION
DOOR ACTUATOR - REMOVAL)
(3) With the actuator remove take the recircula-
tion door and move it to one side so that one pivot
point clears the housing. The tilt the recirculation
door and remove from the assembly.
INSTALLATION
(1) Guide the recirculation door lever through the
air intake grille of the HVAC housing while installing
the door in the housing.
(2) Assemble the HVAC housing. (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/DISTRIBUTION/
HVAC HOUSING - ASSEMBLY)
(3) Install the HVAC housing in the vehicle. (Refer
to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/DISTRI-
BUTION/HVAC HOUSING - INSTALLATION)
(4) Install the recirculation door actuator on the
HVAC housing. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CON-
DITIONING/CONTROLS/RECIRCULATION DOOR
ACTUATOR - INSTALLATION)
24 - 30 DISTRIBUTIONDR

Page 2806 of 2895

DODGE RAM 2003 Service Repair Manual PLUMBING
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
PLUMBING
DESCRIPTION - REFRIGERANT LINE.......32
OPERATION- REFRIGERANT LINES........32
WARNING
SERVICE WARNINGS..................32
CAUTION
SERVICE CAUTIONS......

PLUMBING
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
PLUMBING
DESCRIPTION - REFRIGERANT LINE.......32
OPERATION- REFRIGERANT LINES........32
WARNING
SERVICE WARNINGS..................32
CAUTION
SERVICE CAUTIONS..................33
CAUTION - REFRIGERANT HOSES/LINES/
TUBES PRECAUTIONS.................33
STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT
SYSTEM SERVICE EQUIPMENT..........34
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT
RECOVERY..........................34
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT
SYSTEM EVACUATE...................35
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT
SYSTEM CHARGE.....................35
SPECIFICATIONS - CHARGE CAPACITY.....35
A/C COMPRESSOR
DESCRIPTION
DESCRIPTION........................35
DESCRIPTION - HIGH PRESSURE RELIEF
VALVE..............................35
OPERATION
OPERATION.........................36
OPERATION - HIGH PRESSURE RELIEF
VALVE..............................36
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - A/C
COMPRESSOR NOISE.................36
REMOVAL
REMOVAL...........................37
REMOVAL - 5.9L DIESEL ENGINE.........37
INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION.......................38
INSTALLATION - 5.9L DIESEL ENGINE.....39
A/C CONDENSER
DESCRIPTION.........................39
OPERATION...........................39
REMOVAL
REMOVAL - 3.7, 4.7 and 5.7L ENGINES....39
REMOVAL - 5.9L DIESEL ENGINE.........40
REMOVAL - 8.0L Engine................40
INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION - 3.7, 4.7 and 5.7L ENGINES . 41
INSTALLATION - 5.9L DIESEL ENGINE.....42
INSTALLATION - 8.0L Engine.............42A/C CONDENSER FAN
REMOVAL - CONDENSER FAN (GAS ENGINE
ONLY - 3.7, 4.7 & 5.7L).................43
INSTALLATION - CONDENSER FAN (GAS
ENGINE ONLY - 3.7, 4.7 & 5.7L)..........43
A/C DISCHARGE LINE
REMOVAL
REMOVAL...........................43
REMOVAL - 5.9L DIESEL ENGINE.........43
INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION.......................44
INSTALLATION - 5.9L DIESEL ENGINE.....44
LIQUID LINE
REMOVAL.............................45
INSTALLATION.........................45
SUCTION LINE
REMOVAL
REMOVAL...........................46
REMOVAL - 5.9L DIESEL ENGINE.........46
INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION.......................46
INSTALLATION.......................47
A/C EVAPORATOR
DESCRIPTION.........................47
OPERATION...........................47
REMOVAL.............................47
INSTALLATION.........................47
A/C ORIFICE TUBE
DESCRIPTION.........................48
OPERATION...........................48
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - FIXED ORIFICE
TUBE...............................48
REMOVAL.............................49
INSTALLATION.........................49
ACCUMULATOR
DESCRIPTION.........................49
OPERATION...........................49
REMOVAL.............................49
INSTALLATION.........................50
HEATER CORE
DESCRIPTION.........................50
OPERATION...........................50
REMOVAL.............................50
INSTALLATION.........................50
REFRIGERANT
DESCRIPTION.........................50
OPERATION...........................50
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING- REFRIGERANT
SYSTEM LEAKS......................51
DRPLUMBING 24 - 31

Page 2807 of 2895

DODGE RAM 2003 Service Repair Manual STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT
SYSTEM EVACUATE...................51
STANDARD PROCEDURE- REFRIGERANT
RECOVERY..........................52
STANDARD PROCEDURE- REFRIGERANT
SYSTEM CHA

STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT
SYSTEM EVACUATE...................51
STANDARD PROCEDURE- REFRIGERANT
RECOVERY..........................52
STANDARD PROCEDURE- REFRIGERANT
SYSTEM CHARGE.....................52
REFRIGERANT LINE COUPLER
DESCRIPTION.........................52OPERATION...........................52
REMOVAL.............................52
INSTALLATION.........................53
REFRIGERANT OIL
DESCRIPTION.........................54
OPERATION...........................54
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT
OIL LEVEL...........................54
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 3
O-ring spring lock couplings or dual axes seals.
The refrigerant lines and hoses cannot be repaired
and, if faulty or damaged, they must be replaced.
WARNING
SERVICE WARNINGS
WARNING: THE AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM CON-
TAINS REFRIGERANT UNDER HIGH PRESSURE.
SEVERE PERSONAL INJURY MAY RESULT FROM
IMPROPER SERVICE PROCEDURES. REPAIRS
SHOULD ONLY BE PERFORMED BY QUALIFIED
SERVICE PERSONNEL.
AVOID BREATHING THE REFRIGERANT AND
REFRIGERANT OIL VAPOR OR MIST. EXPOSURE
MAY IRRITATE THE EYES, NOSE, AND/OR THROAT.
WEAR EYE PROTECTION WHEN SERVICING THE
AIR CONDITIONING REFRIGERANT SYSTEM. SERI-
OUS EYE INJURY CAN RESULT FROM DIRECT
CONTACT WITH THE REFRIGERANT. IF EYE CON-
TACT OCCURS, SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION IMME-
DIATELY.
DO NOT EXPOSE THE REFRIGERANT TO OPEN
FLAME. POISONOUS GAS IS CREATED WHEN
REFRIGERANT IS BURNED. AN ELECTRONIC LEAK
DETECTOR IS RECOMMENDED.
IF ACCIDENTAL SYSTEM DISCHARGE OCCURS,
VENTILATE THE WORK AREA BEFORE RESUMING
SERVICE. LARGE AMOUNTS OF REFRIGERANT
RELEASED IN A CLOSED WORK AREA WILL DIS-
PLACE THE OXYGEN AND CAUSE SUFFOCATION.
THE EVAPORATION RATE OF R-134a REFRIGER-
ANT AT AVERAGE TEMPERATURE AND ALTITUDE
IS EXTREMELY HIGH. AS A RESULT, ANYTHING
THAT COMES IN CONTACT WITH THE REFRIGER-
ANT WILL FREEZE. ALWAYS PROTECT THE SKIN
OR DELICATE OBJECTS FROM DIRECT CONTACT
WITH THE REFRIGERANT.
THE R-134a SERVICE EQUIPMENT OR THE VEHI-
CLE REFRIGERANT SYSTEM SHOULD NOT BE
PRESSURE TESTED OR LEAK TESTED WITH COM-
PRESSED AIR. SOME MIXTURES OF AIR AND
R-134a HAVE BEEN SHOWN TO BE COMBUSTIBLE
AT ELEVATED PRESSURES. THESE MIXTURES ARE
POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS, AND MAY RESULT IN
FIRE OR EXPLOSION CAUSING INJURY OR PROP-
ERTY DAMAGE.
24 - 32 PLUMBINGDR

Page 2808 of 2895

DODGE RAM 2003 Service Repair Manual CAUTION
SERVICE CAUTIONS
CAUTION: Liquid refrigerant is corrosive to metal
surfaces. Follow the operating instructions supplied
with the service equipment being used.
Never add R-12 to a refrigerant s

CAUTION
SERVICE CAUTIONS
CAUTION: Liquid refrigerant is corrosive to metal
surfaces. Follow the operating instructions supplied
with the service equipment being used.
Never add R-12 to a refrigerant system designed to
use R-134a. Damage to the system will result.
R-12 refrigerant oil must not be mixed with R-134a
refrigerant oil. They are not compatible.
Do not use R-12 equipment or parts on the R-134a
system. Damage to the system will result.
Do not overcharge the refrigerant system. This will
cause excessive compressor head pressure and
can cause noise and system failure.
Recover the refrigerant before opening any fitting
or connection. Open the fittings with caution, even
after the system has been discharged. Never open
or loosen a connection before recovering the refrig-
erant.
Do not remove the secondary retention clip from
any spring-lock coupler connection while the refrig-
erant system is under pressure. Recover the refrig-
erant before removing the secondary retention clip.
Open the fittings with caution, even after the sys-
tem has been discharged. Never open or loosen a
connection before recovering the refrigerant.
The refrigerant system must always be evacuated
before charging.
Do not open the refrigerant system or uncap a
replacement component until you are ready to ser-
vice the system. This will prevent contamination in
the system.
Before disconnecting a component, clean the out-
side of the fittings thoroughly to prevent contami-
nation from entering the refrigerant system.
Immediately after disconnecting a component from
the refrigerant system, seal the open fittings with a
cap or plug.
Before connecting an open refrigerant fitting,
always install a new seal or gasket. Coat the fitting
and seal with clean refrigerant oil before connect-
ing.
Do not remove the sealing caps from a replacement
component until it is to be installed.
When installing a refrigerant line, avoid sharp
bends that may restrict refrigerant flow. Position the
refrigerant lines away from exhaust system compo-
nents or any sharp edges, which may damage the
line.
Tighten refrigerant fittings only to the specified
torque. The aluminum fittings used in the refriger-
ant system will not tolerate overtightening.
When disconnecting a refrigerant fitting, use a
wrench on both halves of the fitting. This will pre-vent twisting of the refrigerant lines or tubes.
Refrigerant oil will absorb moisture from the atmo-
sphere if left uncapped. Do not open a container of
refrigerant oil until you are ready to use it. Replace
the cap on the oil container immediately after using.
Store refrigerant oil only in a clean, airtight, and
moisture-free container.
Keep service tools and the work area clean. Con-
tamination of the refrigerant system through care-
less work habits must be avoided.
CAUTION - REFRIGERANT HOSES/LINES/
TUBES PRECAUTIONS
Kinks or sharp bends in the refrigerant plumbing
will reduce the capacity of the entire system. High
pressures are produced in the system when it is oper-
ating. Extreme care must be exercised to make sure
that all refrigerant system connections are pressure
tight.
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. Sharp bends will reduce the
flow of refrigerant. The flexible hose lines should be
routed so they are at least 80 millimeters (3 inches)
from the exhaust manifold. It is a good practice to
inspect all flexible refrigerant system hose lines at
least once a year to make sure they are in good con-
dition and properly routed.
There are two types of refrigerant fittings:
²All fittings with O-rings need to be coated with
refrigerant oil before installation. Use only O-rings
that are the correct size and approved for use with
R-134a refrigerant. Failure to do so may result in a
leak.
²Unified plumbing connections with gaskets can-
not be serviced with O-rings. The gaskets are not
reusable and new gaskets do not require lubrication
before installing.
Using the proper tools when making a refrigerant
plumbing connection is very important. Improper
tools or improper use of the tools can damage the
refrigerant fittings. Always use two wrenches when
loosening or tightening tube fittings. Use one wrench
to hold one side of the connection stationary, while
loosening or tightening the other side of the connec-
tion with a second wrench.
The refrigerant must be recovered completely from
the system before opening any fitting or connection.
Open the fittings with caution, even after the refrig-
erant has been recovered. If any pressure is noticed
as a fitting is loosened, tighten the fitting and
recover the refrigerant from the system again.
Do not discharge refrigerant into the atmosphere.
Use an R-134a refrigerant recovery/recycling device
that meets SAE Standard J2210.
DRPLUMBING 24 - 33
PLUMBING (Continued)

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