A/C Condenser Replacements

As the cold refrigerant in the air-conditioning system moves through the evaporator and absorbs heat from the passenger compartment, it is then routed to the condenser and released to the outside air flowing through the cooling system. Because of its position at the front of the vehicle, the condenser is the victim of the occasional errant rock and impact damage from a fender bender. Replacement requires that you remove the radiator and surrounding parts to gain access.

Instructions

Things You'll Need:
Line wrench
Ratchet with extension
New condenser
Standard screwdriver

1. Take your Jeep to a professional mechanic to have the refrigerant removed. This must be done before proceeding, and it is not something you will be able to do yourself--removal requires specialized, very expensive equipment. If the refrigerant is not removed properly, you will be violating state and federal laws that closely regulate the process.
2. Locate your Jeep's condenser, mounted in front of your radiator very close to the bumper. (It looks very much like a small radiator.)
3. Disconnect the two hoses attached to the condenser, using a line wrench. Remove the O-rings and the bracket attached to the radiator the holds one of the two hoses you removed (the condenser hose).
4. Remove the mounting screws from the condenser, used to attach it to the radiator, using a regular wrench, or a ratchet with an extension.
5. Remove the hose bracket and both the upper and lower air seals attached to your Jeep's front grill, using the ratchet and extension. Remove the inlet/outlet block attached to the condenser and grill.
6. Jiggle the condenser around if it doesn't come right off after you have removed the mounting screws. Remove the old condenser and set it aside.
7. Put your new condenser in place by reversing the steps for taking it out. Put the new condenser in the Jeep, replace the hose bracket, inlet/outlet block and upper and lower air seals by attaching their respective mounting screws. Replace the other mounting screws used to attach the old condenser to the radiator. Put the O-ring back on, and use a line wrench to reattach the hoses.