Compressor HVAC: Service and Repair

CAUTION: Vehicles that have an inoperative A/C compressor, due to internal causes, should have the refrigerant system cleaned and/or filtered to remove any debris or contaminants, to prevent damage to the replacement A/C compressor.

NOTE: Replacement of the suction accumulator/drier is necessary when the A/C compressor is replaced. The A/C evaporator core orifice should be replaced whenever the A/C compressor is replaced for lack of performance.

REMOVAL
1. Recover the refrigerant from the A/C system following the recommended service procedures. Observe all safety precautions.
2. Disconnect the A/C clutch wires at the A/C compressor clutch field coil connector on the A/C compressor.
3. Remove the accessory drive belt.
4. Disconnect the A/C compressor manifold and valve from the A/C compressor to condenser discharge line and the A/C compressor suction manifold and tube from the outlet tube of the suction accumulator/drier.
5. Remove the four A/C compressor mounting bolts.
6. Remove the A/C compressor, with the A/C compressor manifold and valve and the A/C compressor suction manifold and tube attached, from the vehicle as a unit.

NOTE: The A/C compressor and hose assembly will not clear the subframe and the radiator support if an attempt is made to remove the unit from the bottom. It must be removed from the top.

7. Remove the A/C compressor manifold and valve and the A/C compressor suction manifold and tube as an on-bench operation.
8. If the A/C compressor is to be replaced, remove the A/C clutch and the A/C clutch field coil assembly.

INSTALLATION
1. Service the replacement A/C compressor with the correct amount of clean Motorcraft YN-12 refrigerant oil.
2. Install the A/C compressor manifold and valve and the A/C compressor suction manifold and tube on the A/C compressor.
3. Install the A/C compressor, with the refrigerant lines attached, onto the A/C mounting bracket (four bolts).
4. Using new O-ring seals lubricated with clean refrigerant oil, connect the A/C compressor manifold and valve to the A/C compressor to condenser discharge line. Attach the A/C compressor suction manifold and tube to the outlet tube of the suction accumulator/drier.
5. Connect the A/C clutch wires to the A/C compressor clutch field coil connector.
6. Install the accessory drive belt. Check the drive belt tension.
7. Leak-test, evacuate, and charge the A/C system. Observe all safety precautions.
8. Check the A/C system for proper operation.