Accumulator HVAC: Service and Repair

The accumulator assembly service replacement part includes O-rings (as necessary) for connections. The desiccant within the shell is NOT serviced separately - it is part of the sealed accumulator assembly.

The accumulator assembly should be replaced ONLY when the shell is perforated and a refrigerant leak is found, or the system has been open to the atmosphere for an extended period. Accumulators do not require periodic replacement due to the following changes:

^ Use of improved desiccant.
^ Use of improved hose material and increased use of metal tubes, both of which reduces the ability of moisture to enter the refrigerant system.

Tool Required:
^ J 39500 R134a Refrigerant Recovery, Recycling, and Recharging (ACR4) System

Remove or Disconnect

1. Negative battery cable.
2. Recover refrigerant.
3. Raise vehicle.
4. Right front tire/wheel.
5. Partially remove splash shield and position aside.
6. Tube nut fitting and block fitting at accumulator.
7. Accumulator bracket from vehicle.
8. Accumulator from bracket.
9. Accumulator from insulator.

Install or Connect

1. Insulator to Accumulator.
2. Accumulator to bracket.

Important
^ Add required amount of new refrigerant oil.

3. Accumulator bracket to vehicle.

Tighten
^ Bolt to 10 N.m (89 lb in).

4. Tube nut fitting and block fitting at accumulator.

Tighten
^ Tube nut to 23.5 N.m (17 lb ft).
^ Block fitting nut to 24 N.m (17 lb ft).

5. Splash shield.
6. Right front tire/wheel.
7. Lower vehicle.
8. Negative battery cable.

Tighten
^ Bolt to 16 N.m (12 lb ft).

9. Evacuate and charge the A/C system.