Dodge RAM 1500 1998 Owner's Manual page 2535

24 - 48 PLUMBING
PLUMBING (Continued)
After the system has been tested for leaks and
evacuated, a refrigerant (R-134a) charge can be
injected into the system.
NOTE: When connecting the service equipment
coupling to the line fitting, verify that the valve of
the coupling is fully closed. This will reduce the
amount of effort required to make the connection.
(1) If using a separate vacuum pump close all
valves before disconnecting pump. Connect manifold
gauge set to the A/C service ports.
NOTE: Always refer to the underhood HVAC Speci-
fication label for the refrigerant fill level of the vehi-
cle being serviced.
(2) Measure refrigerant (refer to capacities). Refer
to the instructions provided with the equipment
being used.
(3) Verify engine is shut off. Open the suction and
discharge valves. Open the charge valve to allow the
refrigerant to flow into the system. When the trans-
fer of refrigerant has stopped, close the suction and
discharge valve.
(4) If all of the charge did not transfer from the
dispensing device, put vehicle controls into the fol-
lowing mode:
• Automatic transmission in park or manual
transmission in neutral
• Engine at idle
• A/C mode control set to outside air
• A/C mode control set to panel mode
• A/C temperature control set to full cool
• Blower motor control set on highest speed
• Vehicle windows closed
If the A/C compressor does not engage, test the
compressor clutch control circuit and correct any fail-
ure (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/WIRING DIAGRAM
INFORMATION - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING).
(5) Open the suction valve to allow the remaining
refrigerant to transfer to the system.
WARNING: TAKE CARE NOT TO OPEN THE DIS-
CHARGE (HIGH-PRESSURE) VALVE AT THIS TIME.
(6) Close all valves and test the A/C system perfor-
mance.
(7) Disconnect the charging station or manifold
gauge set. Install the service port caps.
REFRIGERANT CHARGE CAPACITY
The R-134a refrigerant system charge capacity for
this vehicle can be found on the underhood HVAC
specfication tag.
A/C COMPRESSOR
DESCRIPTION
DESCRIPTION - A/C COMPRESSOR
The A/C system on models equipped with the 5.9L
engine use a Sanden SD-7 reciprocating swash plate-
type compressor. This compressor has a fixed dis-
placement of 165 cubic centimeter (10.068 cubic
inches) and has both the suction and discharge ports
located on the cylinder head.
The A/C system on models equipped with the 3.7L,
4.7L and 5.7L engines use a Denso 10S17 reciprocat-
ing swash plate-type compressor. This compressor
has a fixed displacement of 170 cubic centimeter and
has both the suction and discharge ports located on
the cylinder head.
A label identifying the use of R-134a refrigerant is
located on both A/C compressors.
DESCRIPTION - HIGH PRESSURE RELIEF
VALVE
A high pressure relief valve is located on the com-
pressor cylinder head, which is on the rear of the
compressor. This mechanical valve is designed to
vent refrigerant from the system to protect against
damage to the compressor and other system compo-
nents, caused by condenser air flow restriction or an
overcharge of refrigerant.
OPERATION
OPERATION - A/C COMPRESSOR
The A/C compressor is driven by the engine
through an electric clutch, drive pulley and belt
arrangement. The compressor is lubricated by refrig-
erant oil that is circulated throughout the refrigerant
system with the refrigerant.
The compressor draws in low-pressure refrigerant
vapor from the evaporator through its suction port. It
then compresses the refrigerant into a high-pressure,
high-temperature refrigerant vapor, which is then
pumped to the condenser through the compressor dis-
charge port.
The compressor cannot be repaired. If faulty or
damaged, the entire compressor assembly must be
replaced. The compressor clutch, pulley and clutch
coil are available for service.
OPERATION - HIGH PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE
The high pressure relief valve vents the system
when a discharge pressure of 3445 to 4135 kPa (500
to 600 psi) or above is reached. The valve closes
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