Accumulator HVAC: Service and Repair

REMOVAL

WARNING: REVIEW THE WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS IN THE FRONT BEFORE PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING OPERATION.

1. Recover the refrigerant from the refrigerant system.
2. Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable.
3. If equipped, relocate the vehicle speed control servo as necessary to access the accumulator.

Accumulator - LHD Models Only:

4. Disconnect the wire harness connector from the A/C low pressure switch.
5. Remove the two nuts that secure the suction line fittings to the accumulator.
6. Remove the O-ring seals from the opened suction line fittings and discard.
7. Install plugs in, or tape over the opened suction line fittings and accumulator ports.
8. Remove the bolt that secures the accumulator mounting bracket to the body.
9. Remove the accumulator from the engine compartment.
10. If necessary, remove the A/C low pressure switch from the accumulator.

INSTALLATION

NOTE: If the accumulator is replaced, add 30 milli-liters (1 fluid ounce) of refrigerant oil to the refrigerant system. Use only refrigerant oil of the type recommended for the compressor in the vehicle.

1. If removed, install the A/C low pressure switch onto the accumulator using a new O-ring seal. Tighten the switch securely.
2. Position the accumulator into the engine compartment.
3. Install the bolt securing the accumulator mounting bracket. Tighten the bolt to 11 Nm (97 in. lbs.).
4. Remove the tape or plugs from the opened suction and liquid line fittings and accumulator ports.
5. Lubricate new rubber O-ring seals with clean refrigerant oil and install them on the suction line fittings. Use only the specified O-rings as they are made of a special material for the R-134a system. Use only refrigerant oil of the type recommended for the compressor in the vehicle.
6. Reconnect the suction line fittings to the accumulator.
7. Install the nuts that secure the suction line fittings to the accumulator. Tighten the nuts to 2.3 Nm (20 in. lbs.).
8. Connect the wire harness connector to the A/C low pressure switch.
9. If equipped, reinstall the vehicle speed control servo.
10. Reconnect the negative battery cable.
11. Evacuate the refrigerant system.
12. Charge the refrigerant system.