GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 39400-A Halogen Leak Detector

Important: The A/C refrigerant filter, ACDelco P/N 15-1697 must be installed to the A/C evaporator tube between the condenser and receiver dehydrator. The installation of this A/C refrigerant filter eliminates the need for flushing.

  1. Remove the right wheelhouse panel. Refer to Wheelhouse Panel Replacement.
  2. Recover the refrigerant from the A/C system. Refer to Refrigerant Recovery and Recharging .

  3. Object Number: 801388  Size: SH
  4. Remove the bolt (5) from the condenser tube retaining clamp, if equipped.
  5. Remove the condenser tube (3) from the condenser (1).
  6. Measure 20 mm (0.75 in) from the bend on the condenser tube (3). Mark the tube.
  7. Measure 50.8 mm (2 in) from the mark on the condenser tube (3) from the previous step. Mark the tube.
  8. Important: Do not allow metal burrs to enter the condenser tube (3) during cutting or when removing the burrs.

  9. Using a tubing cutter, cut the marked section of the condenser tube (3).
  10. Remove the burrs from the condenser tube (3).

  11. Object Number: 718864  Size: SH
  12. Remove the nuts (4), the ferrules, and the O-rings (2) from the A/C refrigerant filter (1).
  13. Important: DO NOT install the O-rings (2) in this step.

  14. Push the nuts (4) and ferrules (3) over each of the condenser tube halves.
  15. Install the ferrules (3) with the small end toward the nut (4).
  16. Install the A/C refrigerant filter (1) to the condenser tube with the flow arrow pointing toward the evaporator.
  17. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  18. While holding the condenser tube in the A/C refrigerant filter (1), tighten the nuts (4) to the A/C refrigerant filter.
  19. Tighten
    Tighten the nuts to 15 N·m (11 lb ft).

  20. Remove the nuts (4) from the A/C refrigerant filter (1).
  21. Install the O-rings (2) to the condenser tube. Refer to O-Ring Replacement .
  22. Install the nuts (4) to the A/C refrigerant filter (1).
  23. Tighten
    Tighten the nuts to 15 N·m (11 lb ft).


    Object Number: 801388  Size: SH
  24. Install the condenser tube (3) to the condenser (1).
  25. Install the bolt (5) to the condenser tube retaining clamp, if equipped.
  26. Evacuate and recharge the A/C system. Refer to Refrigerant Recovery and Recharging .
  27. Leak test the fittings of the component using the J 39400-A .
  28. Install the right wheelhouse panel. Refer to Wheelhouse Panel Replacement.