Sable V6-3.0L DOHC VIN S (2002)
Accumulator HVAC: Description and Operation
NOTE: Installation of a new suction accumulator/drier is not required when repairing the air conditioning system except when there is physical
evidence of system contamination from a failed A/C compressor or damage to the suction accumulator/drier.
A new suction accumulator should be installed if one of the following conditions exist:
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The suction accumulator is perforated.
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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.
The suction accumulator/drier is mounted to the A/C accumulator bracket to the right of the vehicle centerline. The inlet tube of the suction
accumulator/drier is attached to the evaporator to accumulator/drier suction line. The outlet tube attaches to the evaporator to compressor suction line.
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 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.
