System Inspection; Windshield Wipers - Ford Ranger Maintaince And Repair Manual

• The easiest and most important preventive maintenance for your A/C system is to be sure that it is
used on a regular basis. Running the system for five minutes each month (no matter what the season)
will help ensure that the seals and all internal components remain lubricated.
Some vehicles automatically operate the A/C system compressor whenever the windshield defroster is
activated. Therefore, the A/C system would not need to be operated each month if the defroster was
used.
• In order to prevent heater core freeze−up during A/C operation, it is necessary to maintain proper
antifreeze protection. Be sure to properly maintain the engine cooling system.
• Any obstruction of or damage to the condenser configuration will restrict air flow which is essential to
its efficient operation. Keep this unit clean and in proper physical shape.
Bug screens which are mounted in front of the condenser (unless they are original equipment) are
regarded as obstructions.
• The condensation drain tube expels any water which accumulates on the bottom of the evaporator
housing into the engine compartment. If this tube is obstructed, the air conditioning performance can
be restricted and condensation buildup can spill over onto the vehicle's floor.

SYSTEM INSPECTION

Although the A/C system should not be serviced by the do−it−yourselfer, system inspections should be
performed to help maintain the efficiency of the vehicle's A/C system. Be sure to perform the following:
The easiest and often most important check for the air conditioning system consists of a visual inspection of
the system components. Visually inspect the system for refrigerant leaks, damaged compressor clutch,
abnormal compressor drive belt tension and/or condition, plugged evaporator drain tube, blocked condenser
fins, disconnected or broken wires, blown fuses, corroded connections and poor insulation.
A refrigerant leak will usually appear as an oily residue at the leakage point in the system. The oily residue
soon picks up dust or dirt particles from the surrounding air and appears greasy. Through time, this will build
up and appear to be a heavy dirt impregnated grease.
For a thorough visual and operational inspection, check the following:
• Check the surface of the radiator and condenser for dirt, leaves or other material which might block
air flow.
• Check for kinks in hoses and lines. Check the system for leaks.
• Make sure the drive belt is properly tensioned. During operation, make sure the belt is free of noise or
slippage.
• Make sure the blower motor operates at all appropriate positions, then check for distribution of the air
from all outlets.
Remember that in high humidity, air discharged from the vents may not feel as cold as expected, even if
the system is working properly. This is because moisture in humid air retains heat more effectively than
dry air, thereby making humid air more difficult to cool.

Windshield Wipers

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PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE