FREE REPAIR MANUALS & LABOR GUIDES 1982-2013 Vehicles
Courtesy of Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

General Information

MANUAL A/C (HVAC)
The Body Control Module controls the mode door position by receiving different voltage levels from the HVAC control over the HVAC mode sense circuit. Included in this signal is the input for the rear window defogger. In this system, the Body Control Module has no control of the blower motor or the passenger compartment temperature.

SYSTEM OPERATION
Engine Cooling System Requirements
To maintain ample temperature levels from the heating-A/C system, the cooling system must be in proper working order.

The use of a bug screen is not recommended. Any obstructions forward of the condenser can reduce the effectiveness of the air conditioning system.

Handling Tubing And Fittings
Kinks in the refrigerant tubing or sharp bends in the refrigerant hose lines will greatly reduce the capacity of the entire system. High pressures are produced in the system when it is operating. Extreme care must be exercised to make sure that all connections are pressure tight. Dirt and moisture can enter the system when it is opened for repair or replacement of lines or components. The refrigerant oil will absorb moisture readily out of the air. This moisture will convert into acids within a closed system.

CAUTION: The system must be completely empty before opening any fitting or connection in the refrigeration system. Open fittings with caution even after the system has been emptied. If any pressure is noticed as a fitting is loosened, retighten fitting and evacuate the system again.

A good rule for the flexible hose lines is to keep the radius of all bends at least 10 times the diameter of the hose. Sharper bends will reduce the flow of refrigerant. The flexible hose lines should be routed so they are at least 3 inches (80 mm) from the exhaust manifold. Inspect all flexible hose lines to make sure they are in good condition and properly routed.

The use of correct wrenches when making connections is very important. Improper wrenches or improper use of wrenches can damage the fittings.

The internal parts of the A/C system will remain stable as long as moisture-free refrigerant and refrigerant oil is used. Abnormal amounts of dirt, moisture or air can upset the chemical stability. This may cause operational troubles or even serious damage if present in more than very small quantities.

When opening a refrigeration system, have everything you will need to repair the system ready. This will minimize the amount of time the system must be opened. Cap or plug all lines and fittings as soon as they are opened. This will help prevent the entrance of dirt and moisture. All new lines and components should be capped or sealed until they are ready to be used.

All tools, including the refrigerant dispensing manifold, the manifold gauge set, and test hoses should be kept clean and dry.

System Airflow
The system draws outside air through the cowl opening at the base of the windshield. Then it goes into the plenum chamber above the Heater A/C unit housing and passes through the evaporator. At this point airflow can be directed either through or around the heater core. This is done by adjusting the blend-air door with the TEMP control on the control head. After the air passes the blend air door, the air flow is then directed from the PANEL, BI-LEVEL (panel and floor), and FLOOR - DEFROST outlets. Air flow velocity can be adjusted with the blower speed selector switch on the control head.

Ambient air intake can be shut off by closing the recirculating air door. This will recirculate the air that is already inside the vehicle. This is done by rotating the RECIRC knob on the control head. Rotating the MODE control knob to the Defrost/Floor or Defrost setting on the control head will engage the compressor. This will send refrigerant through the evaporator, and remove heat and humidity from the air before it goes through the heater core. The compressor can also be engaged by depressing the A/C button on the control head.