Suction Line: Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Dodge Intrepid, 2004 Chrysler Intrepid, 2004 Chrysler Concorde, and 2004 Chrysler 300M. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: REVIEW THE WARNINGS BEFORE PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING OPERATION. (Refer to - WARNING )

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 refrigerant 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.

High pressures are produced in the refrigerant system when the air conditioning compressor is operating. Extreme care must be exercised to make sure that each of the refrigerant system connections is pressure-tight and leak free. It is a good practice to inspect all flexible hose refrigerant lines at least once a year to make sure they are in good condition and properly routed.

Position the suction line in the vehicle.
Install the suction line fitting to the manifold on the compressor. Tighten the mounting bolt to 23 N.m (17 ft. lbs.). On a 2.7L, tighten the mid-line retaining nut and frame rail screw to 7 N.m (5 ft. lbs.).
Install the engine air inlet tube and air distribution duct (Refer to INSTALLATION ).
Connect the suction line to the expansion valve. Tighten the retaining nut to 8 N.m (6 ft. lbs.).
Evacuate the refrigerant system. (Refer to STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT SYSTEM EVACUATE )
Charge the refrigerant system. (Refer to STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT SYSTEM CHARGE )