OEM 2008 Dodge Ram 3500 A/C Accumulator

2008 Dodge Ram 3500 A/C Accumulator Parts and Q&A

• Q: How to Maintain the A/C Accumulator to Prevent System Malfunction and Compressor Damage on 2008 Dodge Ram 3500?

  A: It is very important to adjust the level of refrigerant oil when servicing the A/C system to keep the A/C working properly and avoid damage to the compressor. If an issue with the A/C compressor happens, changing the A/C accumulator is required to protect the compressor further. For this step, cease tightening the accumulator's mounting bolts and attach the plastic wire harness bracket if installed. Lay the A/C accumulator onto the bracket that is found on the dash panel of the engine compartment, but do not fasten any bolts just yet. Remove any tape or plugs from the opened refrigerant system connections, lubricate new rubber O-ring seals with clean refrigerant oil and place them onto the accumulator tube fittings, using only the specific seals for the R-134a system. Hook the spring-lock coupler onto the inlet tube of the accumulator and the outlet tube of the evaporator and install a secondary clip. Mount the accumulator so the accumulator mounting bolts are tightened to 6.8 Nm (60 in. lbs.) and clip the engine wire harness onto the simple plastic wire harness bracket next to the A/C accumulator if it is there. Link the A/C suction line to the accumulator outlet tube and then add the secondary retaining clip. Attach the air filter housing cover and link the negative battery cable back. Drain the refrigerant system and, if the A/C accumulator is being replaced, add 2 fluid ounces of refrigerant oil. Otherwise, refer to the chart labeled refrigerant oil capacities to check the correct oil capacity for multiple component replacements. After servicing, check the manual again to find out the correct refrigerant oil and charge the refrigerant system with it.