Automotive AC Repairing and Replacing – Accumulator Dryer

Accumulator dryers are used on vehicles that have an orifice tube as a metering device. The main operation of accumulator dryers is covered in chapter The accumulator dryer is located in the low side of the AC system at some point between the evaporator core and the compressor and is typically close to the firewall of the vehicle.

It is important to remember to install the accumulator dryer as the last step when making an extensive AC system repair because the dryer contains a desiccant that will absorb moisture as soon as it is uncapped from shipment. Another key point to remember is to add about 1 ounce of refrigerant oil to the device prior to installing it on the vehicle.


Refrigerant oil should be added to the accumulator dryer prior to installing it on the vehicle. It is important to make sure the correct viscosity and type of oil is used in each AC system to prevent the wrong oil from being installed into the


Many accumulator dryers use quick-connect couplings to connect to the lines and hoses of the AC system. As with the hex fasteners, the O-rings should always be replaced and lubricated with refrigerant oil during service

Accumulator dryers can be mounted with bolted connectors or with quick-connect couplings. The installer should follow the same techniques as when installing bolted lines and hoses as well as quick-connect lines and hoses. New O-rings should always be used with a couple drops of refrigerant oil rubbed on them. New gaskets should always be used and installed if that is the type of seal that is required. Extra care should be taken to ensure that the lines and hoses that connect to the accumulator dryer are installed with high quality workmanship.


Many accumulator dryers use hex fasteners to connect to the lines and hoses of the AC system. The O-rings should always be replaced and lubricated with refrigerant oil during service

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