QuestionI have a 1999 Jeep Grand cherokee. I have had two different garages tell me I need a new condenser. Live in Az and need to know how difficult it is to replace one and generally what can I expect to pay for this service if I cannot do it myself?
Answerprice is something that I cant really say to many different variables involved.
CONDENSER
WARNING: REVIEW THE WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS IN THE FRONT OF THIS GROUP BEFORE PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING OPERATION.
CAUTION: Before removing the condenser, note the location of each of the radiator and condenser air seals. These seals are used to direct air through the condenser and radiator. The air seals must be reinstalled in their proper locations in order for the air conditioning and engine cooling systems to perform as designed Air Seals - Typical
REMOVAL
Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable.
Recover the refrigerant from the refrigerant system. See Refrigerant Recovery in this group for the procedures.
Remove the screws attaching the grille and headlamp mounting module to the upper crossmember of the vehicle. Refer to Body for this and further steps in the procedure.
Remove the headlamps from their mounts.
Remove the nuts that secure the hood latch and brace to the upper crossmember.
The radiator upper crossmember can be adjusted left or right through the use of its slotted mounting holes. Before removal, mark the original position of the crossmember.
Remove the bolts that secure the radiator to the upper crossmember and set it aside Condenser Mounting - Typical
Remove the engine air filter inlet duct secured at the headlamp mounting module.
Remove the headlamp mounting module and front fascia for access to the condenser and fittings.
Disconnect the discharge line and liquid line refrigerant line fittings from the condenser. See Refrigerant Line Coupler in this group for the procedures. Install plugs in, or tape over all of the opened refrigerant line fittings.
Remove the bolts that secure the upper condenser and transmission cooler.
Carefully lift the condenser out of the vehicle.
INSTALLATION
For installation, reverse the above procedures.
Carefully position the condenser in the vehicle.
Remove the tape or plugs from the refrigerant line fittings on the discharge line, liquid line and the condenser. Connect both of the refrigerant line couplers to the condenser. See Refrigerant Line Coupler in this group for the procedures.
Evacuate and charge the refrigerant system. See Refrigerant System Evacuate and Charge procedures in this group.
NOTE: If the condenser is replaced, add 30 milliliters (1 fluid ounce) of refrigerant oil to the refrigerant system. Use only refrigerant oil of the type recommended for the compressor in the vehicle
