Automotive Air Conditioning Information Forum (Archives)

jpcallan on Sat July 17, 2010 7:23 PM

Year: 1994
Make: Chrysler
Model: LHS
Engine Size: 3.5L
Refrigerant Type: R134a
Country of Origin: United States

Hello.

I need to to change the filter-dryer on a 1994 Chrysler LHS after a compressor seize-up. What body or engine parts need to be removed to most easily get access to the filter-dryer?

Although the Chrysler LHS 1994 Service Manual directs the filter-dryer be changed after any number of A/C system problems, the manual has almost nothing to say about getting access to it on page 24-31. The Remove & Install instructions discuss the obvious like: recover the refrigerant, disconnect the filter-dryer, etc., but nothing is said about actually getting at it. It's buried up behind and below the right head light framing on the right edge of the condenser.

It looks like I might have to remove the bumper assembly and/or passenger side (right) headlamp shell and housing, but I can't help but thinking there has got to be a better way.

Thank you in advance for any and all advice.


Reading other posts around the Internet, Chrysler LH platform cars seem to have a lot of A/C problems. I've had to replace the block-style expansion valve 4 times in 14 years. I'm curious why the system has more than the average number of faults.

jglanham on Sun July 18, 2010 2:50 AM

Look in your service manual for CONDENSER - REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION. I have a '95 Concorde. Same platform, but some differences to the front end. You will need to remove the radiator cross member and the sight shield to access it from the top. Removing the headlamp assembly might give you more room to maneuver (not necessary on the Concorde). On mine, it was easier to access it from underneath. Compare the new drier to the old one. Sometimes the piping is bent a little differently and you will need to tweak it before installing. It's in a real tight spot. If you're replacing a compressor because it seized, there is probably debris throughout the system. You will need to flush thoroughly. There is an excellent tututorial on flushing on this site. It is recommended to replace a parallel flow condenser, since flushing by a DIY'er will not remove all of the debris and oil. Failure to remove contamination from a system will cause TXV's to clog and will eventually seize the compressor.

The main issue with the A/C in the LH platform has been with evaporator leakage. Chrysler used poor quality aluminum when they were owned by Daimler. I replaced the TXV when I replaced the compressor and evaporator, not because it failed. but because it was 12 years old and not that expensive. There are many manufacturers and suppliers of parts, and they are not all equal. I purchased mine from AMA, the sponsor of this site, three years ago, because I knew that Tim strives to supply only quality parts. The key to sucess in repairing an A/C system is to use quality components, flush thoroughly, add the correct amount of oil, pull a good vacuum and charge by weight to factory specs.

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johnl