Ford Motor Co.

1998 Oldsmobile Achieva 3.1 M, 4T40E/MN4SECTION Ford Motor Co.
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NOTE: DO NOT flush accumulator/receiver-drier, muffler, hoses and thermal expansion valve/fixed orifice tube as residual flushing agent cannot be completely removed from these components. These components are generally replaced after A/C system contamination. Hoses can be reused, unless they are clogged with debris. Only flush evaporator core and condenser core, and metal inlet and outlet lines.
  1. Manufacturer recommends flushing contaminated system using one gallon of Ford A/C System Flushing Solvent (F4AZ-19579-A), a Filter (FL-1A), an A/C Flusher Fitting Kit (014-00992). DO NOT reuse flushing solvent and filter, they are intended to be used on one vehicle only.
  2. Discharge A/C system, using approved refrigerant recovery/recycling equipment. Flush specified A/C components using A/C System Flusher (014-00991), according to manufacturer's operating instructions.
  3. If an A/C system flusher is not available to clean A/C system, an in-line filter kit can be used. Filter kit is installed before replacement compressor, accumulator/receiver-drier, muffler, and thermal expansion valve/fixed orifice tube have been installed.
  4. Filter kits are used with either a rubber lined suction hose or with a nylon lined suction hose located between compressor and evaporator. Rubber lined hose has a wall thickness of 1/4" and nylon lined hose has a wall thickness of 1/8". See Fig 1.
  5. The filter kit for either type hose has 2 filters. A temporary pancake filter and a permanent in-line suction filter. Pancake filter is temporarily installed between condenser and condenser-to-evaporator line. See Fig 2. Permanent filter is installed in suction line between accumulator and compressor.
  6. Install replacement components (compressor, accumulator and fixed orifice) with correct amount of refrigerant oil. See COMPRESSOR REFRIGERANT OIL CHECKING article.
  7. Cut suction hose between compressor and accumulator (closer to compressor). Remove a length of suction hose to accommodate suction filter. Measure side wall of suction hose and install appropriate filter with "O" rings and filter clamps. If side wall is 1/4", use in-line filter labeled USE WITH RUBBER INNER LINED HOSE. If side wall is 1/8", use in-line filter labeled USE WITH NYLON INNER LINED HOSE. Ensure arrow on filter is pointing in direction of refrigerant flow. Tighten hose clamps to 54 INCH lbs. (6 N.m). See Fig 1.
  8. Install pancake filter in liquid line between condenser and condenser-to-evaporator line. Ensure filter inlet (label) is toward condenser. Evacuate, charge, and leak test A/C system. See EVACUATING A/C SYSTEMΒ , CHARGING A/C SYSTEMΒ  and LEAK TESTINGΒ . Check filters and hoses for clearance from other engine components. Use tie straps if necessary.
  9. Place an external cooling fan in front of radiator. Select MAX A/C operation and set blower motor speed to maximum. Start engine and allow to idle. Ensure A/C is operating properly. Slowly increase engine speed to 800 RPM, then 1000 RPM, and then to 1200 RPM. With engine speed set to 1200 RPM, operate engine for one hour with A/C system operating.
  10. Stop engine. Discharge A/C system, using approved refrigerant recovery/recycling equipment. Remove pancake filter, hoses and fittings. Discard pancake filter. Reconnect liquid line, evacuate, charge, and leak test A/C system. Ensure A/C system is operating properly.
Fig 1: Permanent A/C System Filters
G95J60003Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • β€’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • β€’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • β€’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • β€’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • β€’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.