2003 JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE Hoses

HVAC HOUSING
REMOVAL
The HVAC housing assembly must be removed
from the vehicle and the two halves of the housing
separated for service access of the heater core, evap-
orator coil, blend door(s), and each of the various
mode doors.
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: REVIEW THE WARNINGS AND CAU-
TIONS IN PLUMBING BEFORE PERFORMING THE
FOLLOWING OPERATION. (Refer to 24 - HEATING &
AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING - WARNING) (Refer
to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
CAUTION)
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Remove the instrument panel from the vehi-
cle(Refer to 23 - BODY/INSTRUMENT PANEL -
REMOVAL).
(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 from
the evaporator inlet tube(Refer to 24 - HEATING &
AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING/LIQUID LINE -
REMOVAL) or (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CON-
DITIONING/PLUMBING/LIQUID LINE - REMOV-
AL). Install plugs in, or tape over all of the opened
refrigerant line fittings.
(5) Disconnect the suction line refrigerant line
from the evaporator outlet tube(Refer to 24 - HEAT-
ING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING/SUCTION
LINE - REMOVAL), (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR
CONDITIONING/PLUMBING/SUCTION LINE -
REMOVAL) or (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CON-
DITIONING/PLUMBING/SUCTION LINE - REMOV-
AL). Install plugs in, or tape over all of the opened
refrigerant line fittings.(6) Disconnect the heater hoses from the heater
core tubes. Clamp off the heater hoses to prevent loss
of coolant. Refer to Cooling for the procedures. Install
plugs in, or tape over the opened heater core tubes.
(7) If the vehicle is equipped with the manual tem-
perature control system, unplug the HVAC system
vacuum supply line connector from the tee fitting
near the heater core tubes.
(8) Remove the coolant reserve/overflow bottle
from the passenger side inner fender shield. Refer to
Cooling for the procedures.
(9) Remove the Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
from the passenger side dash panel in the engine
compartment and set it aside. Do not unplug the
PCM wire harness connectors. Refer to Electronic
Control Modules for the procedures.
(10) Remove the nuts from the HVAC housing
mounting studs on the engine compartment side of
the dash panel (Fig. 9).
(11) Remove the rear floor heat ducts from the
floor heat duct outlets (Fig. 10).
(12) Unplug the HVAC housing wire harness con-
nectors.
(13) Remove the HVAC housing mounting nuts
from the studs on the passenger compartment side of
the dash panel (Fig. 11).
Fig. 9 HVAC Housing - (rear view)
1 - Instrument Panel
2 - Air Intake
3 - Expansion Valve
4 - HVAC Housing
5 - Heater Core Input/Output Ports
6 - Instrument Panel Wiring Harness
7 - Blower Motor
WJDISTRIBUTION 24 - 41

NOTE: The blend door sub-assembly is attached to
the housing with 2 screws, and may be removed for
service (Fig. 19).
ASSEMBLY
(1) Place the top half of the HVAC housing on the
bottom half. Be certain that each of the door pivot
pins align with the pivot holes in the HVAC housing.
(2) Install the 10 screws that secure the two hous-
ing halves to each other. Tighten the HVAC housing
screws to 2.2 N´m (20 in. lbs.).
(3) Attach the wire harness electrical connector(s)
to the mounts on the lower case at the blower motor
end of the unit.
(4) Install the 5 clips that secure the two housing
halves to each other. Check doors for binding after
replacement, and after assembly of housing.
(5) Install the screw with plastic washer holding
the lever assembly to the upper case section.
(6) Install the mode door actuator on the left side
of the housing.
INSTALLATION
WARNING: REVIEW THE WARNINGS AND CAU-
TIONS IN PLUMBING BEFORE PERFORMING THE
FOLLOWING OPERATION. (Refer to 24 - HEATING &
AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING - WARNING) (Refer
to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
CAUTION)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 the exhaust manifold.
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.
(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 the HVAC housing mounting nuts to the
studs on the passenger compartment side of the dash
panel. Tighten the nuts to 4.5 N´m (40 in. lbs.).
(3) Connect the HVAC housing wire harness con-
nectors.
(4) Reinstall the rear floor heat ducts to the center
floor heat duct outlets.
(5) Install and tighten the nuts onto the HVAC
housing mounting studs on the engine compartment
side of the dash panel. Tighten the nuts to 7 N´m (60
in. lbs.).
(6) Reinstall the PCM to the passenger side dash
panel in the engine compartment. Refer to Electronic
Control Modules for the procedures.
(7) Reinstall the coolant reserve/overflow bottle to
the passenger side inner fender shield. Refer to Cool-
ing for the procedures.
(8) If the vehicle is equipped with the manual tem-
perature control system, connect the HVAC system
vacuum supply line connector to the tee fitting near
the heater core tubes.
(9) Unclamp/unplug the heater core hoses and
tubes. Connect the heater hoses to the heater core
tubes and fill the engine cooling system. Refer to
Cooling for the procedures.
(10) Unplug or remove the tape from the suction
line and the evaporator outlet tube fittings. Connect
the suction line to the evaporator outlet tube.
Tighten retaining nut to 28 N´m (250 in. lbs.).
(11) Unplug or remove the tape from the liquid
line and the evaporator inlet tube fittings. Connect
the liquid line to the evaporator inlet tube. Tighten
retaining nut to 28 N´m (250 in. lbs.).
(12) Evacuate the refrigerant system. (Refer to 24
- HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
Fig. 19 BLEND DOOR SUB-ASSEMBLY (AZC)
1 - PASSENGER SIDE BLEND DOOR
2 - BLEND DOOR SUB-ASSEMBLY
3 - DOOR PIVOT SHAFT BUSHING
4 - DOOR SHAFT LEVER
5 - DRIVER SIDE BLEND DOOR
WJDISTRIBUTION 24 - 45
HVAC HOUSING (Continued)

PLUMBING
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
PLUMBING
DESCRIPTION - REFRIGERANT LINE.......52
OPERATION - REFRIGERANT LINE.........52
WARNING.............................52
CAUTION
CAUTION...........................53
REFRIGERANT HOSES/LINES/TUBES
PRECAUTIONS.......................53
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - REFRIGERANT
SYSTEM LEAKS......................54
STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT
SYSTEM SERVICE EQUIPMENT..........54
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT
RECOVERY..........................55
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT
SYSTEM EVACUATE...................55
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT
SYSTEM CHARGE.....................56
SPECIFICATIONS
CHARGE CAPACITY...................57
A/C COMPRESSOR
DESCRIPTION
DESCRIPTION - A/C COMPRESSOR.......57
DESCRIPTION - HIGH PRESSURE RELIEF
VALVE..............................57
OPERATION
OPERATION - A/C COMPRESSOR........57
OPERATION - HIGH PRESSURE RELIEF
VALVE..............................57
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - COMPRESSOR
NOISE..............................58
REMOVAL
REMOVAL...........................58
REMOVAL - 2.7L TURBO DIESEL.........60
INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION.......................61
INSTALLATION - 2.7L TURBO DIESEL......61
A/C CONDENSER
DESCRIPTION.........................62
OPERATION...........................62
REMOVAL.............................62
INSTALLATION.........................63
A/C DISCHARGE LINE
REMOVAL
REMOVAL - 2.7L TURBO DIESEL.........63
REMOVAL...........................64INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION - 2.7L TURBO DIESEL......64
INSTALLATION.......................65
A/C EXPANSION VALVE
DESCRIPTION.........................65
OPERATION...........................65
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - A/C EXPANSION
VALVE ..............................65
REMOVAL.............................66
INSTALLATION.........................66
LIQUID LINE
REMOVAL
REMOVAL...........................66
REMOVAL - 2.7L TURBO DIESEL.........66
INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION.......................66
INSTALLATION - 2.7L TURBO DIESEL......67
SUCTION LINE
REMOVAL
REMOVAL...........................67
REMOVAL - 2.7L TURBO DIESEL.........68
INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION.......................68
INSTALLATION - 2.7L TURBO DIESEL......69
A/C EVAPORATOR
DESCRIPTION.........................69
OPERATION...........................69
REMOVAL.............................69
INSTALLATION.........................70
HEATER CORE
DESCRIPTION.........................71
OPERATION...........................71
REMOVAL.............................71
INSTALLATION.........................71
RECEIVER / DRIER
DESCRIPTION.........................72
OPERATION...........................72
REMOVAL.............................73
INSTALLATION.........................73
REFRIGERANT
DESCRIPTION.........................75
OPERATION...........................75
REFRIGERANT OIL
DESCRIPTION.........................75
OPERATION...........................75
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT
OIL LEVEL...........................75
WJPLUMBING 24 - 51

VISCOUS HEATER
DESCRIPTION
DESCRIPTION........................76
DESCRIPTION - VISCOUS HEATER
CLUTCH............................76
OPERATION
OPERATION - VISCOUS HEATER.........76
OPERATION - VISCOUS HEATER CLUTCH . . 76REMOVAL
REMOVAL - VISCOUS HEATER...........76
REMOVAL - VISCOUS HEATER CLUTCH . . . 76
INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION.......................78
INSTALLATION - VISCOUS HEATER
CLUTCH............................78
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 the exhaust manifold.
OPERATION - REFRIGERANT LINE
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 cannot be repaired
and, if faulty or damaged, they must be replaced.
WARNING
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 - 52 PLUMBINGWJ

CAUTION
CAUTION
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.
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.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.
The refrigerant system will remain chemically sta-
ble as long as pure, moisture-free R-134a refrigerant
and refrigerant oil is used. Dirt, moisture, or air can
upset this chemical stability. Operational troubles or
serious damage can occur if foreign material is
present in the refrigerant system.
When it is necessary to open the refrigerant sys-
tem, have everything needed to service the system
WJPLUMBING 24 - 53
PLUMBING (Continued)

ready. The refrigerant system should not be left open
to the atmosphere any longer than necessary. Cap or
plug all lines and fittings as soon as they are opened
to prevent the entrance of dirt and moisture. All lines
and components in parts stock should be capped or
sealed until they are to be installed.
All tools, including the refrigerant recycling equip-
ment, the manifold gauge set, and test hoses should
be kept clean and dry. All tools and equipment must
be designed for R-134a refrigerant.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - REFRIGERANT
SYSTEM LEAKS
WARNING: REVIEW THE WARNINGS AND CAU-
TIONS IN THE FRONT OF THIS SECTION BEFORE
PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING OPERATION.
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - WARNING) (Refer to 24 - HEATING &
AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING - CAUTION)
If the air conditioning system is not cooling prop-
erly, determine if the refrigerant system is fully-
charged. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR
CONDITIONING - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING -
A/C PERFORMANCE)
An electronic leak detector designed for R-134a
refrigerant is recommended for locating and confirm-
ing refrigerant system leaks. Refer to the operating
instructions supplied by the equipment manufacturer
for proper care and use of this equipment.
An oily residue on or near refrigerant system lines,
connector fittings, components, or component seals
can indicate the general location of a possible refrig-
erant leak. However, the exact leak location should
be confirmed with an electronic leak detector prior to
component repair or replacement.
To detect a leak in the refrigerant system, perform
one of the following procedures:
SYSTEM EMPTY
(1) Evacuate the refrigerant system. (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT SYS-
TEM 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 - STAN-
DARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT SYSTEM
CHARGE)
(3) Position the vehicle in a wind-free work area.
This will aid in detecting small leaks.
(4) With the engine not running, use a electronic
R-134a leak detector and search for leaks. Because
R-134a refrigerant is heavier than air, the leak detec-tor probe should be moved slowly along the bottom
side of all refrigerant lines, connector fittings and
components.
(5) To inspect the evaporator coil for leaks, insert
the electronic leak detector probe into the center
instrument panel outlet. Set the blower motor switch
to the lowest speed position, the A/C button in the
On position, and select the Recirculation Mode.
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 with the air conditioning system
turned on for five minutes.
(3) With the engine not running, use a electronic
R-134a leak detector and search for leaks. Because
R-134a refrigerant is heavier than air, the leak detec-
tor probe should be moved slowly along the bottom
side of all refrigerant lines, connector fittings and
components.
(4) To inspect the evaporator coil for leaks, insert
the electronic leak detector probe into the center
instrument panel outlet. Set the blower motor switch
to the lowest speed position, the A/C button in the
On position, and select the Recirculation Mode.
STANDARD PROCEDURE
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT
SYSTEM SERVICE EQUIPMENT
WARNING: EYE PROTECTION MUST BE WORN
WHEN SERVICING AN AIR CONDITIONING REFRIG-
ERANT SYSTEM. TURN OFF (ROTATE CLOCKWISE)
ALL VALVES ON THE EQUIPMENT BEING USED,
BEFORE CONNECTING TO OR DISCONNECTING
FROM THE REFRIGERANT SYSTEM. FAILURE TO
OBSERVE THESE WARNINGS MAY RESULT IN PER-
SONAL INJURY.
WARNING: REVIEW THE WARNINGS AND CAU-
TIONS IN THE FRONT OF THIS SECTION BEFORE
PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING OPERATION.
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - WARNING) (Refer to 24 - HEATING &
AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING - CAUTION)
When servicing the air conditioning system, a
R-134a refrigerant recovery/recycling/charging sta-
tion that meets SAE Standard J2210 must be used.
Contact an automotive service equipment supplier for
refrigerant recovery/recycling/charging equipment.
Refer to the operating instructions supplied by the
24 - 54 PLUMBINGWJ
PLUMBING (Continued)

equipment manufacturer for proper care and use of
this equipment.
A manifold gauge set may be needed with some
recovery/recycling/charging equipment (Fig. 1). The
service hoses on the gauge set being used should
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.
MANIFOLD GAUGE SET CONNECTIONS
CAUTION: Do not use an R-12 manifold gauge set
on an R-134a system. The refrigerants are not com-
patible and system damage will result.
LOW PRESSURE GAUGE HOSE The low pressure
hose (Blue with Black stripe) attaches to the suction
service port. This port is located on the suction line
near the dash panel.
HIGH PRESSURE GAUGE HOSE The high pres-
sure hose (Red with Black stripe) attaches to the dis-
charge service port. This port is located on the
discharge line between the compressor and the con-
denser inlet.RECOVERY/RECYCLING/EVACUATION/CHARG-
ING HOSE The center manifold hose (Yellow, or
White, with Black stripe) is used to recover, evacu-
ate, and charge the refrigerant system. When the low
or high pressure valves on the manifold gauge set
are opened, the refrigerant in the system will escape
through this hose.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT
RECOVERY
WARNING: REVIEW THE WARNINGS AND CAU-
TIONS IN THE FRONT OF THIS SECTION BEFORE
PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING OPERATION.
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - WARNING) (Refer to 24 - HEATING &
AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING - CAUTION)
A R-134a refrigerant recovery/recycling/charging
station that meets SAE Standard J2210 must be
used to recover the refrigerant from an R-134a refrig-
erant system. Refer to the operating instructions sup-
plied by the equipment manufacturer for the proper
care and use of this equipment.
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT
SYSTEM EVACUATE
WARNING: REVIEW THE WARNINGS AND CAU-
TIONS IN THE FRONT OF THIS SECTION BEFORE
PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING OPERATION.
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - WARNING) (Refer to 24 - HEATING &
AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING - CAUTION)
If the refrigerant system has been open to the
atmosphere, it must be evacuated before the system
can be charged. If moisture and air enters the system
and becomes mixed with the refrigerant, the com-
pressor head pressure will rise above acceptable
operating levels. This will reduce the performance of
the air conditioner and damage the compressor.
Evacuating the refrigerant system will remove the
air and boil the moisture out of the system at near
room temperature. To evacuate the refrigerant sys-
tem, use the following procedure:
(1) Connect a R-134a refrigerant recovery/recy-
cling/charging station that meets SAE Standard
J2210 and a manifold gauge set to the refrigerant
system of the vehicle.
(2) Open the low and high side valves and start
the charging station vacuum pump. When the suc-
tion gauge reads 88 kPa (26 in. Hg.) vacuum or
greater, close all of the valves and turn off the vac-
uum pump.
Fig. 1 MANIFOLD GAUGE SET - TYPICAL
1 - HIGH PRESSURE GAUGE
2 - VALVE
3 - VACUUM/REFRIGERANT HOSE (YELLOW W/ BLACK
STRIPE)
4 - HIGH PRESSURE HOSE (RED W/ BLACK STRIPE)
5 - LOW PRESSURE HOSE (BLUE W/ BLACK STRIPE)
6 - VALVE
7 - LOW PRESSURE GAUGE
WJPLUMBING 24 - 55
PLUMBING (Continued)

The high pressure relief valve vents only enough
refrigerant to reduce the system pressure, and then
re-seats itself. The majority of the refrigerant is con-
served in the system. If the valve vents refrigerant, it
does not mean that the valve is faulty.
The high pressure relief valve is a factory-cali-
brated unit. The valve cannot be adjusted or
repaired, and must not be removed or otherwise dis-
turbed. The valve is only serviced as a part of the
compressor assembly.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - COMPRESSOR
NOISE
When investigating an air conditioning related
noise, you must first know the conditions under
which the noise occurs. These conditions include:
weather, vehicle speed, transmission in gear or neu-
tral, engine speed, engine temperature, and any
other special conditions. Noises that develop during
air conditioning operation can often be misleading.
For example: What sounds like a failed front bearing
or connecting rod, may be caused by loose bolts, nuts,
mounting brackets, or a loose compressor clutch
assembly.
Drive belts are speed sensitive. At different engine
speeds and depending upon belt tension, belts can
develop noises that are mistaken for a compressor
noise. Improper belt tension can cause a misleading
noise when the compressor clutch is engaged, which
may not occur when the compressor clutch is disen-
gaged. Check the serpentine drive belt condition and
tension as described in Cooling before beginning this
procedure.
(1) Select a quiet area for testing. Duplicate the
complaint conditions as much as possible. Switch the
compressor on and off several times to clearly iden-
tify the compressor noise. Listen to the compressor
while the clutch is engaged and disengaged. Probe
the compressor with an engine stethoscope or a long
screwdriver with the handle held to your ear to bet-
ter localize the source of the noise.
(2) Loosen all of the compressor mounting hard-
ware and retighten. Tighten the compressor clutch
mounting nut. Be certain that the clutch coil is
mounted securely to the compressor, and that the
clutch plate and pulley are properly aligned and have
the correct air gap. (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR
CONDITIONING/CONTROLS/A/C COMPRESSOR
CLUTCH - INSTALLATION)
(3) To duplicate a high-ambient temperature condi-
tion (high head pressure), restrict the air flow
through the condenser. Install a manifold gauge set
to be certain that the discharge pressure does not
exceed 2760 kPa (400 psi).
(4) Check the refrigerant system plumbing for
incorrect routing, rubbing or interference, which cancause unusual noises. Also check the refrigerant lines
for kinks or sharp bends that will restrict refrigerant
flow, which can cause noises. (Refer to 24 - HEAT-
ING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING - CAU-
TION - REFRIGERANT HOSES/LINES/TUBES
PRECAUTIONS)
(5) If the noise is from opening and closing of the
high pressure relief valve, reclaim, evacuate, and
recharge the refrigerant system. (Refer to 24 - HEAT-
ING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING - STAN-
DARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT RECOVERY)
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIG-
ERANT SYSTEM EVACUATE) (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT SYS-
TEM CHARGE)If the high pressure relief valve still
does not seat properly, replace the a/c compressor.
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING/A/C COMPRESSOR - REMOVAL)
(6) If the noise is from liquid slugging on the suc-
tion line, check the refrigerant oil level and the
refrigerant system charge. (Refer to 24 - HEATING
& AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING/REFRIGER-
ANT OIL - STANDARD PROCEDURE) (Refer to 24 -
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING -
SPECIFICATIONS - CHARGE CAPACITY).
(7) If the noise continues, replace the compressor
and repeat Step 1.
REMOVAL
REMOVAL
The compressor may be removed and repositioned
without disconnecting the refrigerant lines or dis-
charging the refrigerant system. Discharging is not
necessary if servicing the compressor clutch or clutch
coil, the engine, the cylinder head, or the generator.
WARNING: REVIEW THE WARNINGS AND CAU-
TIONS IN THE FRONT OF THIS SECTION BEFORE
PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING OPERATION.
(Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/
PLUMBING - WARNING) (Refer to 24 - HEATING &
AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING - CAUTION)
(1) Recover the refrigerant from the system. (Refer
to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMB-
ING - STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT
RECOVERY)
(2) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(3) Remove the serpentine drive belt. Refer to
Cooling for the procedures.
(4) Unplug the compressor clutch coil wire harness
connector.
24 - 58 PLUMBINGWJ
A/C COMPRESSOR (Continued)