Attention. The air conditioning system is constantly under high pressure. Never disconnect the refrigerant lines or remove system components without first unloading the refrigerant from the system. The unloading of refrigerant from the air conditioning system must be carried out by a dealer service department or an automotive air conditioner specialist using an appropriate service station designed to unload/recycle refrigerant and comply with the requirements of environmental protection legislation. Always wear protective goggles when disconnecting the refrigerant lines!
Warning. The receiver dryer should be replaced every time the compressor is replaced.
1. Unload the refrigerant, for which it is barely blowing to contact a specialist in automobile air conditioners.
2. On Highlander models, remove the grille. On Lexus models, remove the front bumper (see chapter 11).
3. On Lexus models, remove the radiator support (see paragraph 5). On Highlander models, remove the upper radiator supports (see paragraph 5).
4. Disconnect the inlet and outlet fittings (pic. 15.4). Plugs open fittings immediately to prevent moisture and dirt from entering the system.
Pic. 15.4. Condenser line fittings
5. Remove fasteners (pic. 15.5). Press the radiator back toward the engine, then press the condenser back until it is free from the radiator support and can be removed from the vehicle. On 2004 and later Lexus models, condensate is removed towards the front of the vehicle.
Pic. 15.5. Condenser support bracket fasteners
6. Install the condenser, brackets and bolts. Take care of the correct location of the rubber pads on the support points.
7. Connect the refrigerant lines, using new O-rings if necessary
8. Reinstall the remaining elements, working in the reverse order of removal.
9. Evacuate the system, charge it with refrigerant and check for leaks. To do this, contact a specialist in automotive air conditioning.