Removal and Installation

CAUTION: Replacement of the suction accumulator/drier is necessary any time a major component of the refrigerant system is replaced. Failure to replace the suction accumulator/drier will expose the refrigerant system to excessive moisture accumulation. A major component includes A/C condenser core, A/C compressor, A/C evaporator core or a refrigerant hose/line. An A/C evaporator core orifice or O-ring seal is not considered a major component but the A/C evaporator core orifice should be replaced whenever the A/C compressor is replaced for lack of performance.

In addition to the preceding condition, the suction accumulator/drier should also be replaced if one of the following conditions exist:
^ he suction accumulator/drier is perforated.
^ The refrigerant system has been opened to the atmosphere for a period of time longer than required to make a minor repair.
^ There is evidence of moisture in the system such as internal corrosion of metal refrigerant lines or the refrigerant oil is thick and dark.

NOTE: The compressor oil from vehicles equipped with an FS-10 A/C compressor may have a dark color while maintaining a normal oil viscosity. This is normal for the FS-10 A/C compressor because carbon from the A/C compressor piston rings will discolor the oil.

When replacing the suction accumulator/drier, the procedure described here must be followed to make sure the total oil charge in the system is correct after the new suction accumulator/drier is installed.
^ Drain the oil from the removed suction accumulator/drier into a suitable measuring container. Drill one or two 13 mm (1/2-inch) holes in the bottom of the old suction accumulator/drier to make sure that all the oil has drained out.
^ Add the same amount plus 60 ml (2 oz) of clean new Motorcraft YN-12b refrigerant oil or equivalent meeting Ford specification WSH-M1C231-B to the new suction accumulator/drier.

Spring Lock Coupling Disconnect Tool (5/8 Inch):

Special Service Tool(s) Required

Removal
1. Recover the refrigerant from the A/C system. Observe all safety precautions.
2. Disconnect the suction hose at the suction accumulator/drier. Cap the suction hose to prevent the entrance of dirt and moisture.
3. Remove the screw holding the suction accumulator/drier in the suction accumulator/drier bracket.
4. Disconnect the suction accumulator/drier inlet tube from the A/C evaporator core outlet using Spring Lock Coupling Disconnect Tool T83P-19623-C and remove the suction accumulator/drier.
5. Disconnect the wire harness connector from the A/C cycling switch on top of the suction accumulator/drier.

Installation
1. Position the suction accumulator/drier to the vehicle and route the suction hose to the A/C compressor.
2. Using a new O-ring seal lubricated with clean Motorcraft YN-12b refrigerant oil or equivalent meeting Ford specification WSH-M1C231-B, connect the suction accumulator/drier inlet tube to the evaporator core outlet.
3. Install the screw in the suction accumulator/drier bracket.
4. Using a new O-ring seal lubricated with clean refrigerant oil, connect the suction hose to the A/C compressor. Tighten the connection to specification.
5. Leak test, evacuate and charge the system following the recommended service procedures. Observe all safety precautions.
6. Check the system for proper operation.