Expert: Kevin - 4/27/2009

Question
I have a 2003 dodge stratus 2.4L sohc and I'm replacing the AC compressor, receiver/drier, and expansion vavle.  I can not find the receiver/drier.  The haynes manual states that its next to the condensor/radiator and I can't find it there.  Is it under the dash or does it not look like a traditional receiver/drier? (I need to find it before I order the part because its only available at the dealer and they tell me its not returnable...and there's 2 different parts they offer both expensive! ) Can you send me a factory diagram of the AC system possible?!  Thanks!

Answer
REMOVAL
The receiver/drier is integral to the liquid line and cannot be serviced separately. For removal and installation procedures refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING/LIQUID LINE.



REMOVAL
WARNING: Refer to the applicable warnings and cautions for this system before performing the following operation (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING - WARNINGS) and (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING - CAUTIONS). Failure to follow the warnings and cautions could result in possible personal injury or death.

Disconnect and isolate the negative battery cable.
Recover the refrigerant from the refrigerant system (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING - STANDARD PROCEDURE - REFRIGERANT SYSTEM RECOVERY).
If equipped with the 2.4L Turbo engine, remove the secondary retaining clip from the spring-lock coupler that secures the liquid line (A/C Condenser - 2.4L Turbo Engine) to the A/C condenser and disconnect the liquid line fitting, using the proper A/C line disconnect tool (Refer to 24 - HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING/REFRIGERANT LINE COUPLER - REMOVAL).
Remove the O-ring seals from the liquid line fitting and install plugs in, or tape over the fitting and the condenser port.
If equipped with the 2.0L, 2.4L NA or the 2.7L engine, raise and support the vehicle and remove the nut that secures the liquid line (A/C Condenser - All Other Engines) to the A/C condenser.
Remove the liquid line from the A/C condenser and remove and discard the O-ring seal.
Install plugs in, or tape over the opened liquid line fitting and condenser port.
Remove the bolt that secures the receiver/drier to the engine coolant reservoir.
Remove the bolt that secures the refrigerant line retainer bracket to the right shock tower.
Remove the liquid line from the refrigerant line retainer bracket.
Remove the nut that secures the refrigerant line tapping plate to the A/C expansion valve (A/C Expansion Valve-Tapping Plate).
Disconnect the suction line and the liquid line from the A/C expansion valve and remove and discard the O-ring seals.
Install plugs in, or tape over the suction and liquid line fittings and both expansion valve ports.
Remove the liquid line and receiver/drier assembly from the engine compartment.