Discovery II
AIR CONDITIONING
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION
82-15
Dual pressure switch
The dual pressure switch protects the refrigerant system from extremes of pressure. The normally closed switch is
installed in the top of the receiver drier. If minimum or maximum pressure limits are exceeded the switch contacts
open, causing the compressor clutch to be disengaged. The minimum pressure limit protects the compressor, by
preventing operation of the system unless there is a minimum refrigerant pressure (and thus refrigerant and
lubricating oil) in the system. The maximum pressure limit keeps the refrigerant system within a safe operating
pressure.
Dual pressure switch nominal operating pressures
Evaporator temperature sensor
The evaporator temperature sensor is an encapsulated thermistor that provides the ATC ECU with an input of the
evaporator air outlet temperature. The evaporator temperature sensor is installed in a clip which locates in the
evaporator matrix in the heater assembly. The ATC ECU uses the input to prevent the formation of ice on the
evaporator.
In-car temperature sensor
The in-car temperature sensor is an encapsulated thermistor that provides the ATC ECU with an input of cabin air
temperature. The sensor is integrated into the inlet of an electric fan, which is installed behind a grille in the fascia
outboard of the steering column. The fan runs continuously, while the ignition is on, to draw air through the grille and
across the sensor.
Sunlight sensor
The sunlight sensor consists of two diodes that provide the ATC ECU with inputs of light intensity, one as sensed
coming from the left of the vehicle and one as sensed coming from the right. The inputs are used as a measure of the
solar heating effect on vehicle occupants. The sensor is installed in the centre of the fascia upper surface.
Heater coolant temperature sensor
The heater coolant temperature sensor is an encapsulated thermistor that provides the ATC ECU with an input related
to heater matrix coolant temperature. The sensor is installed in the casing of the heater assembly and presses against
the end tank of the heater matrix.
Ambient temperature sensor
The ambient temperature sensor is an encapsulated thermistor that provides the ATC ECU with an input of external
air temperature. The sensor is attached to the cooling fan mounting bracket in front of the condenser.
Limit
Opening pressure, bar (lbf.in
2
)
Closing pressure, bar (lbf.in
2
)
Minimum
2.0 (29.0), pressure decreasing
2.3 (33.4), pressure increasing
Maximum
32 (464), pressure increasing
26 (377), pressure decreasing