Malibu V6-191 3.1L VIN M SFI (1997)
Accumulator HVAC: Description and Operation
Downstream of the evaporator outlet pipe, the sealed accumulator assembly functions as a liquid/vapor separator. It receives refrigerant vapor, along
with some liquid refrigerant and refrigerant oil from the evaporator. It allows only refrigerant vapor and oil to pass on to the compressor.
At the bottom of the accumulator is the desiccant bag. It acts as a drying agent for moisture that may have entered the system. An oil bleed hole is located
near the bottom of the accumulator outlet pipe to provide an oil return path to the compressor.
If the system is open to air for an extended period of time (due to a front-end collision, removed parts, etc.) replace the accumulator. The desiccant bag
will be saturated with moisture. The accumulator is serviced by replacement only. The accumulator is located inside the right hand front fender (forward
of the tire/wheel).
