FLUSHING A/C SYSTEM
Note. A/C system flushing or filtering should be performed to remove contaminates resulting from a compressor failure.
| CAUTION | Accumulator/receiver drier, muffler, hoses, thermal expansion valve and fixed orifice tube should be removed. Do not flush these components because residual flushing agent cannot be completely removed. Except for hoses, these components are generally replaced after A/C system contamination. Hoses can be reused unless they are clogged with debris. Only flush evaporator core and condenser core, and metal inlet and outlet lines. |
- Manufacturer recommends flushing contaminated system using one gallon of Ford A/C System Flushing Solvent (F4AZ-19579-A), a new Motorcraft filter (FL-1A) and a Rotunda A/C System Flusher (014-00991). Do not reuse flushing solvent and filter, they are intended to be used only on one vehicle only. Follow manufacturer's operating instructions for use of A/C system flusher.
- If an A/C system flusher is not available to clean A/C system, an in-line filter kit can be used. Two filter kits are available. Filter kits are used with either a rubber lined suction hose or with a nylon lined suction hose located between compressor and evaporator. Rubber lined hose has a wall thickness of 1/4" and nylon lined hose has a wall thickness of 1/8". (Scheme 8)
- Each filter kit has 2 filters. A temporary pancake filter and a permanent in-line suction filter. The pancake filter is installed between condenser core and evaporator core orifice. The permanent filter is installed in the suction line between the accumulator and the compressor. (Scheme 9)
- If A/C system is contaminated because of compressor failure, discharge system using approved refrigerant recovery/recycling equipment. Install replacement compressor and correct amount of new refrigerant oil. Install replacement accumulator and correct amount of new refrigerant oil.
- Cut suction hose between compressor and accumulator (closer to compressor). Measure side wall of suction hose. If side wall is 1/4",use in-line filter labeled USE WITH RUBBER INNER LINED HOSE. If side wall is 1/8", use in-line filter labeled USE WITH NYLON INNER LINED HOSE. Remove a length of suction hose to accommodate suction filter and install filter. On filter for nylon lined hose, install 2 "O" rings on each filter tube. On both filters, use hose clamps provided in filter kit and ensure filter is correctly oriented for refrigerant system flow. (Scheme 8)
- Replace fixed orifice tube. If fixed orifice tube is located in the liquid line between condenser and evaporator, replace liquid line. Install pancake filter in liquid line between condenser and evaporator (fixed orifice tube). Ensure filter inlet is toward condenser.
- Evacuate, charge and leak test A/C system. See «EVACUATING A/C SYSTEM»(ref-39795-S05287206182001080200000), CHARGING A/C SYSTEM and LEAK TESTING. Check new filters and hoses for clearance from other engine components. Use tie straps if necessary.
- Place a fan in front of the radiator. Turn A/C control to ON position, blower motor to maximum speed, and temperature control to full cold position. Start engine and allow to idle. Ensure A/C is operating properly. Slowly bring engine speed up to approximately 1200 RPM. Set engine speed at 1200 RPM and run it for one hour with A/C system operating.
- Stop engine. Discharge A/C system, using approved refrigerant recovery/recycling equipment. Allow engine to cool, remove pancake filter and discard filter. Reconnect liquid line, evacuate, charge and leak test A/C system. See «EVACUATING A/C SYSTEM»(ref-39795-S05287206182001080200000), CHARGING A/C SYSTEM and LEAK TESTING. Ensure A/C system is operating properly.
