To remove the refrigerant from the vehicle's air conditioning system, it is recommended to have it discharged at a dealer service department or an automotive air conditioning repair facility. Before starting the removal process, disconnect the battery cable from the negative battery terminal and remove the battery, ensuring you have the correct activation code for the stereo if it has an anti-theft system. Next, detach the refrigerant lines from the compressor and cap the open fittings to prevent dirt and moisture from entering. Disconnect the clutch wire from the A/C Compressor and remove the accessory drive belt. Then, remove the compressor mounting bolts and take out the compressor from the engine compartment, keeping it level during handling and storage. If the compressor is seized or there are metal particles in the refrigerant lines, the system must be flushed out and the
A/C Accumulator replaced by a professional. For installation, turn the center of the clutch six times to disperse any collected oil before installing the compressor in the reverse order of removal. If a new compressor is being installed, transfer the cycling clutch assembly to the new compressor using a special tool if necessary. Add additional refrigerant oil equal to the amount removed with the replaced component, ensuring compatibility with the system being repaired. Finally, have the system evacuated, charged, and leak tested by the shop that discharged it. If the compressor clutch fails to engage, inspect the magnetic clutch relay located either in the relay center under the hood for 1990 and earlier models, or under the dash on the passenger side of the center control assembly for 1991 and later models. Use an ohmmeter to check for continuity at the indicated terminals and replace the relay if continuity is not as specified.