Q: How to disconnect and replace the receiver-drier in an air conditioning system on Ford Crown Victoria?
A: Disconnect the cable at the negative battery terminal. Disconnect the refrigerant inlet and outlet lines at the accumulator/drier, one is a conventional nut and the other is a spring lock coupling. Cap or plug the open lines immediately. Special spring lock coupling tools are required to release the connectors used on the refrigerant lines throughout the air conditioning system. Remove the mounting bolt and slide the receiver-drier assembly up and out of the mounting bracket. If you are replacing the receiver/drier, drain the refrigerant oil from the old accumulator/drier. Add the same amount plus two ounces of clean refrigerant oil to the new accumulator. This will maintain the correct oil level in the system after the repairs are completed. Place the new receiver-drier into position and tighten the mounting bracket screw securely. Install the inlet and outlet lines. Lubricate the O-rings using clean refrigerant oil and tighten the through-bolt and refrigerant line connections securely. Connect the cable to the negative terminal of the battery. Have the system evacuated, recharged, and leak tested by a dealer service department or an air conditioning repair facility.