Town Car V8-4.6L VIN W (1997)
Receiver Dryer: Description and Operation
NOTE: Replacement of the suction accumulator/drier is necessary any time a major component of the refrigerant system is replaced. Major components
include the following:
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A/C condenser core
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A/C compressor
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A/C evaporator core
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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.
The suction accumulator/drier is mounted on the front of the A/C evaporator core housing and attaches directly to the A/C evaporator core outlet tube.
A low-pressure service access gauge port valve is mounted on the side of the suction accumulator/drier.
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It provides service access to the suction side of the refrigerant system for pressure readings and system diagnosis.
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It also may be used for liquid-charging the system when required. After entering the inlet of the suction accumulator/drier, heavier oil-laden
refrigerant contacts an internally-mounted dome, which serves as an umbrella. The oil then drips down onto the bottom of the canister.
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A small diameter oil bleed hole, in the bottom of the vapor return tube allows the accumulated heavier liquid refrigerant and oil mixture to re-enter
the compressor suction line at a controlled rate.
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As the heavier mixture passes through the small diameter liquid bleed hole, it has a second chance to vaporize and recirculate through the A/C
compressor without causing compressor damage due to slugging.
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A fine-mesh screened filter fits tightly around the bottom of the vapor return tube to filter out refrigerant system contaminant particles.
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A desiccant bag is mounted inside the canister to absorb any moisture which may be in the refrigerant system.
When it is necessary to measure the quantity of refrigerant oil in the suction accumulator/drier, drill two 13 mm (1/2 inch) holes in the body of the
suction accumulator/drier and drain oil through the holes.
In addition to the preceding condition, the suction accumulator/drier should also be replaced if one of the following conditions exist:
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The suction accumulator/drier is perforated.
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The refrigerant system has been opened to the atmosphere for a period of time longer than required to make a minor repair.
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There is evidence of moisture in the system such as internal corrosion of metal refrigerant lines or the refrigerant oil is thick and dark.
