Removal and Installation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Mercury Milan, 2006 Lincoln Zephyr, and 2006 Ford Fusion. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Installation of a new A/C desiccant cartridge is not required when repairing the air conditioning system except when there is physical evidence of system contamination from a failed A/C compressor or damage to the A/C desiccant cartridge.

Recover the refrigerant. For additional information, refer to CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEM-GENERAL INFORMATION AND DIAGNOSTICS .
With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. For additional information, refer JACKING & LIFTING .
Remove the lower radiator air deflector.
Unscrew and remove the plastic receiver/drier cap.

Fig 1: Locating Plastic Receiver/Drier Cap
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: If the receiver/drier plug is difficult to remove, open a refrigerant system fitting to relieve any vacuum created during refrigerant recovery, and attempt to remove the plug again.

Remove the receiver/drier plug.
1. Push the receiver/drier plug upwards and remove the snap ring.
2. Install the bolt included with the A/C desiccant cartridge service kit in the center of the receiver drier plug and remove the plug.
  
  Fig 2: Identifying Snap Ring And Receiver Drier Plug
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Using a suitable tool, grasp the A/C desiccant cartridge grab handle and remove the A/C desiccant cartridge.

Fig 3: Removing A/C Desiccant Cartridge
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
To install, reverse the removal procedure.
- Lubricate the receiver/drier plug O-ring seals using residual refrigerant oil from inside the receiver/drier.
- Lubricate the refrigerant system with the correct amount of clean PAG oil. For additional information, refer to CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEM-GENERAL INFORMATION AND DIAGNOSTICS .
Evacuate, leak test and charge the refrigerant system. For additional information, refer to CLIMATE CONTROL SYSTEM-GENERAL INFORMATION AND DIAGNOSTICS .