Sable V6-183 3.0L DOHC VIN S MFI (1997)
Accumulator HVAC: 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 A/C accumulator bracket and positioned to the right of the radiator. The inlet tube of the suction
accumulator/drier is attached to the A/C evaporator core. The outlet tube attaches to the A/C manifold and tube.
After entering the inlet of the suction accumulator/drier, heavier oil-laden refrigerant contacts an internally mounted dome (which serves as an umbrella)
and 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 this 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.
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A fitting located on the top of the suction accumulator/drier is used to mount the A/C cycling switch. A long-travel, Schrader-type valve stem core
is installed in the fitting opening to prevent refrigerant loss when the A/C cycling switch is removed.
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.