E 150 1/2 Ton Van V6-4.2L VIN 2 (1997)
Accumulator HVAC: Description and Operation
Suction Accumulator/Drier
NOTE: Replacement of the suction accumulator/drier is necessary if there is moisture in the system, if the system is open for an extended amount of
time, or any time a major component is replaced. Major components include:
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A/C compressor
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A/C condenser core
^
A/C evaporator core
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refrigerant hose/line
An A/C evaporator core orifice or an O-ring seal is not considered a major component.
The suction accumulator/drier is mounted to the RH side of the engine compartment. The inlet tube of the suction accumulator/drier is attached to the
A/C evaporator core outlet tube. The outlet tube of the suction accumulator/drier attaches to the A/C manifold and tube. A desiccant bag located inside
the suction accumulator/drier absorbs any moisture in the refrigerant system.
After entering the inlet of the suction accumulator/drier, heavier oil-laden and liquid refrigerant contacts an internally mounted dome and drips down
onto the bottom of the canister. A small diameter oil bleed hole in the bottom of the vapor return tube allows the accumulated refrigerant and oil mixture
to re-enter the compressor suction line at a controlled rate. A fine-mesh screened filter fits tightly around the bottom of the vapor return tube to filter out
refrigerant system contaminant particles.