EVAPORATOR-A/C

DESCRIPTION

On LHD models, the A/C liquid and suction lines are connected to the evaporator tubes (3) by use of rubber O-rings and quick-connect fittings (refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING/COUPLER-REFRIGERANT LINE - DESCRIPTION for more information). The refrigerant lines on RHD models are connected to the A/C evaporator by use of rubber O-rings, tapping blocks and retaining nuts.

The A/C evaporator can be serviced by removing and disassembling the HVAC housing assembly.

OPERATION

Refrigerant enters the A/C evaporator through the A/C orifice tube as a low-temperature, low-pressure mixture of liquid and gas. As air flows over the fins of the A/C evaporator, the humidity in the air condenses on the fins, and the heat from the air is absorbed by the refrigerant. Heat absorption causes the refrigerant to boil and vaporize. The refrigerant becomes a low-pressure gas when it leaves the A/C evaporator.

NOTE: Replacement of the refrigerant line O-ring seals is required anytime a refrigerant line is opened. Failure to replace the rubber O-ring seals could result in a refrigerant system leak.

The A/C evaporator has no serviceable parts except for the O-ring seals. The O-ring seals used on the connections are made from a special type of rubber not affected by R-134a refrigerant. The O-ring seals must be replaced whenever a refrigerant line is removed from the A/C evaporator.

The A/C evaporator cannot be repaired and must be replaced if found to be leaking or damaged.

REMOVAL

NOTE: If the foam insulator around the A/C evaporator is deformed or damaged, the insulator must be replaced.

NOTE: If the rubber seal around the evaporator tubes is deformed or damaged, the seal must be replaced.

INSTALLATION

CAUTION: Be certain to adjust the refrigerant oil level when servicing the A/C refrigerant system (refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING/REFRIGERANT OIL - STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT OIL LEVEL). Failure to properly adjust the refrigerant oil level will prevent the A/C system from operating as designed and can cause serious A/C compressor damage.

NOTE: When replacing multiple A/C system components, refer to the Refrigerant Oil Capacities chart to determine how much oil should be added to the refrigerant system (refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING/REFRIGERANT OIL - STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT OIL LEVEL).

NOTE: If only the A/C evaporator is being replaced, add 60 milliliters (2 fluid ounces) of refrigerant oil to the refrigerant system. Use only refrigerant oil of the type recommended for the A/C compressor in the vehicle.

NOTE: Replacement of the refrigerant line O-ring seals and gaskets is required anytime a refrigerant line is opened. Failure to replace the rubber O-ring seals and metal gaskets could result in a refrigerant system leak.

NOTE: Replacement of the refrigerant line O-ring seals is required anytime a refrigerant line is opened. Failure to replace the rubber O-ring seals could result in a refrigerant system leak.