Jeep Cherokee (XJ): Refrigerant oil. Refrigerant system service port. Vacuum check valve

Refrigerant oil

DESCRIPTION

The refrigerant oil used in R-134a refrigerant systems is a synthetic-based, PolyAlkylene Glycol (PAG), wax-free lubricant. Mineral-based R-12 refrigerant oils are not compatible with PAG oils, and should never be introduced to an R-134a refrigerant system.

There are different PAG oils available, and each contains a different additive package. The 10PA17 compressor used in this vehicle is designed to use an ND-8 PAG refrigerant oil. Use only refrigerant oil of this same type to service the refrigerant system.

OPERATION

After performing any refrigerant recovery or recycling operation, always replenish the refrigerant system with the same amount of the recommended refrigerant oil as was removed. Too little refrigerant oil can cause compressor damage, and too much can reduce air conditioning system performance.

PAG refrigerant oil is much more hygroscopic than mineral oil, and will absorb any moisture it comes into contact with, even moisture in the air. The PAG oil container should always be kept tightly capped until it is ready to be used. After use, recap the oil container immediately to prevent moisture contamination.

Refrigerant system service port

DESCRIPTION

The two refrigerant system service ports are used to charge, recover/recycle, evacuate, and test the air conditioning refrigerant system. Unique service port coupler sizes are used on the R-134a system, to ensure that the refrigerant system is not accidentally contaminated by the use of the wrong refrigerant (R-12), or refrigerant system service equipment.

OPERATION

The high pressure service port is located on the refrigerant line, near the discharge port of the compressor.

The low pressure service port is located on the liquid line at the rear of the engine compartment, near the evaporator inlet tube.

Each of the service ports has a threaded plastic protective cap installed over it from the factory. After servicing the refrigerant system, always reinstall both of the service port caps.

Vacuum check valve

DESCRIPTION

A vacuum check valve is installed in the accessory vacuum supply line in the engine compartment, near the vacuum tap on the engine intake manifold, and at the HVAC unit takeout. The vacuum check valve is designed to allow vacuum to flow in only one direction through the accessory vacuum supply circuits.

OPERATION

The use of a vacuum check valve helps to maintain the system vacuum needed to retain the selected heater-A/C mode settings. The check valve will prevent the engine from bleeding down system vacuum through the intake manifold during extended heavy engine load (low engine vacuum) operation.

The vacuum check valve cannot be repaired and, if faulty or damaged, it must be replaced.