This procedure involves evacuating the AC system, removing the old AC accumulator/drier, installing a new unit, and recharging the system to restore air conditioning functionality.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• AC accumulator/drier assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification for 2015-2020 F-150 5.0L
• AC line O-ring kit × 1 — Use OEM specification
• PAG oil (46 viscosity) × 1 — Use manufacturer-specified PAG oil
• R-134a refrigerant × 1 — Approximately 1.75-2.0 lbs total system capacity

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Ensure engine is cold before beginning work
3. Verify AC recovery machine is certified and functioning properly
4. Have replacement accumulator and all O-rings ready to minimize system open time
5. Confirm refrigerant type is R-134a (standard for this model year)

Procedure

1. 1

   Recover AC refrigerant
   Connect AC recovery machine to the high and low side service ports. Follow machine manufacturer instructions to completely evacuate all refrigerant from the system. Record the amount of refrigerant and oil recovered for recharge reference. Allow system to equalize to atmospheric pressure before proceeding.
2. 2

   Access accumulator location
   The accumulator is located on the passenger side of the engine bay, typically mounted near the firewall. Remove any engine covers or air intake components that obstruct access. On some configurations, partial removal of the air filter housing may be necessary for clearance.
3. 3

   Disconnect electrical connections
   Locate and disconnect the pressure switch connector on top of the accumulator. Press the locking tab and pull straight up to remove. Secure the connector away from the work area to prevent contamination.
4. 4

   Disconnect inlet AC line
   Using the appropriate line disconnect tool, disconnect the AC line from the evaporator (inlet side of accumulator). This is typically the line coming from the firewall. Immediately cap the open line and accumulator port with clean plugs to prevent moisture ingress and contamination.
5. 5

   Disconnect outlet AC line to compressor
   Disconnect the AC line running from the accumulator to the compressor (outlet side). Use the line disconnect tool appropriate for the fitting size. Cap both the line and accumulator port immediately.
6. 6

   Remove accumulator mounting hardware
   Remove the mounting bracket bolts securing the accumulator to its mounting location. The accumulator is typically held by a metal strap or bracket with 2-3 bolts. Support the accumulator while removing the final bolt to prevent it from falling.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bracket Bolts30 Nm (22 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Remove old accumulator and transfer components
   Remove the old accumulator from the vehicle. Remove the pressure switch from the old accumulator (if reusing) and inspect the O-ring. Drain any remaining oil from the old accumulator into a graduated container to measure oil charge. Check manufacturer specifications for new accumulator oil charge and adjust total system oil accordingly.
8. 8

   Prepare new accumulator
   Remove caps from new accumulator ports. Verify the correct amount of PAG oil is in the new unit per manufacturer specifications. If accumulator came pre-charged with oil, subtract recovered oil amount and add difference. Install pressure switch with new O-ring if applicable. Add a small amount of PAG oil to new O-rings for AC line connections.
9. 9

   Install new accumulator
   Position the new accumulator in the mounting bracket, ensuring proper orientation with inlet and outlet ports aligned correctly. Install mounting bracket bolts and torque to specification. Verify accumulator is secure and properly positioned.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bracket Bolts30 Nm (22 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect AC lines
    Remove caps from AC lines and accumulator ports. Install new O-rings on both AC line connections, lubricating with PAG oil. Connect both the inlet line (from evaporator) and outlet line (to compressor). Ensure fittings are fully seated before tightening. Torque line fittings to specification.
    Torque spec

    AC Line Fittings20 Nm (15 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect electrical connection
    Reconnect the pressure switch electrical connector to the top of the accumulator. Ensure the connector locks securely into place with an audible click.
12. 12

    Vacuum test system
    Connect vacuum pump to AC service ports. Evacuate system to 29+ inches Hg vacuum and hold for minimum 30 minutes. Monitor vacuum gauge for any pressure rise which would indicate a leak. If vacuum holds steady, system is ready for recharge. If vacuum drops, locate and repair leak before proceeding.
13. 13

    Recharge AC system
    Using refrigerant scale and manifold gauges, recharge system with the correct amount of R-134a refrigerant per the underhood specification label (typically 1.75-2.0 lbs for 5.0L F-150). Charge through the low-side port with engine running and AC on MAX. Monitor pressures and ensure proper charging. Do not overcharge.
14. 14

    Leak test and verify operation
    With system charged, use electronic leak detector or approved leak detection method to check all connection points, especially the new accumulator fittings and pressure switch. Start engine and verify AC system operates correctly with appropriate vent temperatures (38-42°F typical). Check that compressor cycles properly and pressures are within specifications.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall any air intake components or engine covers removed during access
2. Verify all electrical connections are secure and properly routed
3. Double-check all AC line connections for proper torque and sealing
4. Ensure no tools or parts are left in engine bay

Verification

• Start engine and turn AC to MAX cold setting with blower on high
• Verify vent temperature reaches 38-42°F within 5 minutes of operation
• Check that compressor clutch engages and cycles normally
• Verify no unusual noises from AC system during operation
• Inspect all connections for signs of refrigerant leaks (oil residue or frost)
• Confirm high and low side pressures are within manufacturer specifications using manifold gauges
• Test AC performance under various ambient conditions if possible

More procedures for this vehicle