Chrysler Stratus LHD 1997, Interactive Electronic Service Manual

Page: 1325 / 1534

COMPRESSOR CLUTCH/COIL ASSEMBLY
The clutch assembly consists of a stationary elec-
tromagnetic coil, hub bearing pulley assembly, and
clutch plate.
The electromagnetic coil and pulley are retained on
the compressor with snap rings. The clutch plate is
mounted on the compressor shaft and secured with a
nut.
When the compressor is not operating, the pulley
free wheels on the hub bearing which is part of the
pulley. When the coil is energized the plate is mag-
netically engaged with the pulley and turns the com-
pressor shaft.
ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
To maintain ample temperature levels from the
heating-A/C system, the cooling system must be in
proper working order. Refer to Group 0, Lubrication
and Maintenance or Group 7, Cooling System of this
manual.
The use of a bug screen is not recommended. Any
obstructions forward of the condenser can reduce the
effectiveness of the air conditioning system.
EVAPORATOR PROBE
The evaporator probe is a temperature sensing ele-
ment located at the coldest point on the face of the
evaporator. Output from the probe is sampled by the
Body Control Module (BCM). It is used to switch the
A/C compressor clutch OFF before evaporator freeze
up occurs. The clutch is switched OFF when the
probe temperature reaches 0.94°C. (33.7°F.). It is
allowed to switch ON when the probe temperature
reaches 2.05°C. (35.7°F.).
The evaporator probe is located on the lower right
side of the evaporator housing.
EXPANSION VALVE
The expansion valve is located on the engine side
of the dash panel, near the right shock tower.
The expansion valve can fail in three different
positions (open, closed or restricted).
In an Open Position: this will result in a noisy
compressor or no cooling. The cause can be a broken
spring, broken ball or excessive moisture in the A/C
system. If the spring or ball are found to be defective,
replace the expansion valve. If excessive moisture is
found in the A/C system, recycle the refrigerant.
In a Closed Position: There will be low suction
pressure and no cooling. This may be caused by a
failed power dome or excessive moisture in the A/C
system. If the power dome on the expansion valve is
found to be defective replace the expansion valve. If
excessive moisture is found recycle the refrigerant.
A Restricted Orifice: There will be low suction
pressure and no cooling. This may be caused by
debris in the refrigerant system. If debris is believed
to be the cause, recycle the refrigerant and replace
the expansion valve and receiver/drier.
HANDLING TUBING AND FITTINGS
Kinks in the refrigerant tubing or sharp bends in
the refrigerant hose lines will greatly reduce the
capacity of the entire system. High pressures are pro-
duced in the system when it is operating. Extreme
care must be exercised to make sure that all connec-
tions are pressure tight. Dirt and moisture can enter
the system when it is opened for repair or replace-
ment of lines or components. The refrigerant oil will
absorb moisture readily out of the air. This moisture
will convert into acids within a closed system.
CAUTION: The system must be completely empty
before opening any fitting or connection in the
refrigeration system. Open fittings with caution
even after the system has been emptied. If any
pressure
is noticed as a fitting is loosened,
retighten fitting and evacuate the system again.
A good rule for the flexible hose lines is to keep
the radius of all bends at least 10 times the diame-
ter of the hose. Sharper bends will reduce the flow
of refrigerant. The flexible hose lines should be
routed so they are at least 3 inches (80 mm) from
the exhaust manifold. Inspect all flexible hose lines
to make sure they are in good condition and prop-
erly routed.
The use of correct wrenches when making con-
nections is very important. Improper wrenches or
improper use of wrenches can damage the fittings.
The internal parts of the A/C system will remain
stable as long as moisture-free refrigerant and
refrigerant oil is used. Abnormal amounts of dirt,
moisture or air can upset the chemical stability.
This may cause operational troubles or even seri-
ous damage if present in more than very small
quantities.
When opening a refrigeration system, have every-
thing you will need to repair the system ready. This
will minimize the amount of time the system must
be opened. Cap or plug all lines and fittings as
soon as they are opened. This will help prevent the
entrance of dirt and moisture. All new lines and
components should be capped or sealed until they
are ready to be used.
All tools, including the refrigerant dispensing
manifold, the manifold gauge set, and test hoses
should be kept clean and dry.
THERMAL LIMITER SWITCH
The switch is used to measure compressor surface
temperature. If compressor surface temperature is
excessive the switch will cut battery feed voltage to
24 - 4 HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING
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DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION (Continued)