Chrysler 2005 Crossfire SRT6 Service Manual page 4258

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DESCRIPTION - REFRIGERANT LINES/HOSES/TUBES
The refrigerant lines and hoses are used to carry the
refrigerant between the various Air Conditioning Sys-
tem components:
• Evaporator (1)
• Expansion Valve (3)
• Receiver/Drier (5)
• Condenser (6)
• A/C Compressor (8)
A barrier hose design with a nylon tube, which is
sandwiched between rubber layers, is used for the
R-134a air conditioning systems. This nylon tube helps
to further contain the R-134a refrigerant, which has a
smaller molecular structure than R-12 refrigerant. The
ends of the refrigerant hoses are made from light-
weight aluminum or steel, and commonly use braze-
less fittings.
Any kinks or sharp bends in the refrigerant plumbing
will reduce the capacity of the entire air conditioning
system. Kinks and sharp bends reduce the flow of refrigerant in the system. A good rule for the flexible hose refrig-
erant lines is to keep the radius of all bends at least ten times the diameter of the hose. In addition, the flexible
hose refrigerant lines should be routed so they are at least 80 millimeters (3 inches) from the exhaust manifold.
There are two types of refrigerant fittings:
• All fittings with O-rings need to be coated with refrigerant oil before installation. Use only O-rings that are the
correct size and approved for use with R-134a refrigerant. Failure to do so may result in a leak.
• Unified plumbing connections with gaskets cannot be serviced with O-rings. The gaskets are not reusable and
new gaskets do not require lubrication before installing.
Using the proper tools when making a refrigerant plumbing connection is very important. Improper tools or improper
use of the tools can damage the refrigerant fittings. Always use two wrenches when loosening or tightening tube
fittings. Use one wrench to hold one side of the connection stationary, while loosening or tightening the other side
of the connection with a second wrench.
The refrigerant must be recovered completely from the system before opening any fitting or connection. Open the
fittings with caution, even after the refrigerant has been recovered. If any pressure is noticed as a fitting is loosened,
tighten the fitting and recover the refrigerant from the system again.
Do not discharge refrigerant into the atmosphere. Use an R-134a refrigerant recovery/recycling device that meets
SAE Standard J2210.
The refrigerant system will remain chemically stable as long as pure, moisture-free R-134a refrigerant and refriger-
ant oil is used. Dirt, moisture, or air can upset this chemical stability. Operational troubles or serious damage can
occur if foreign material is present in the refrigerant system.
When it is necessary to open the refrigerant system, have everything needed to service the system ready. The
refrigerant system should not be left open to the atmosphere any longer than necessary. Cap or plug all lines and
fittings as soon as they are opened to prevent the entrance of dirt and moisture. All lines and components in parts
stock should be capped or sealed until they are to be installed.
All tools, including the refrigerant recycling equipment, the manifold gauge set, and test hoses should be kept clean
and dry. All tools and equipment must be designed for R-134a refrigerant.
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