How to Recharge the Freon in a 2001 Jeep
by Owen PearsonIf you have noticed that the air conditioning in your 2001 Jeep isn't as powerful as it used to be, the problem may be that the air conditioning unit is low on freon. If you have determined that the compressor still works, it may be time to add freon to the air conditioning unit. This is a relatively simple task that most Jeep owners can handle without the help of a service professional. The task usually takes about 20 minutes to complete.
Step 1
Open the hood and locate the air conditioning unit. The unit is located near the windshield, on the left side of the vehicle. It is comprised of an accumulator, a compressor and a condenser.
Step 2
Locate the low side service fitting on the hose between the accumulator and the compressor. If in doubt, compare it to the high side service fitting on the hose between the compressor and the condenser: The low side fitting has a smaller diameter.
Step 3
Connect the recharge service hose to the can of R134 refrigerant. Twist the valve on the hose to puncture the can. Slowly release the valve--just enough to let the hose fill with freon vapor--then tighten the valve. This action forces out the air accumulated inside the hose, which can cause your air conditioner to run improperly.
Step 4
Connect the free end of the service hose to the low side fitting. The hose will only fit on the low side fitting, so you do not have to worry about accidentally connecting it to the high side fitting.
Step 5
Turn the engine on. Turn the air conditioner control of your 2001 Jeep to "Max A/C."
Step 6
Hold the can of R134A refrigerant upright and open the valve. Once the compressor starts, it will draw the freon vapor into the air conditioning unit. You will notice that the can becomes cold. Allow at least ten minutes for the air conditioner to charge.
Step 7
Check to see if the air conditioner is blowing cold air into the cabin of the Jeep. Shut the vehicle off. Disconnect the recharge service hose and close the hood.
References
- "Jeep Cherokee 1984-2001: Cherokee-Wagoner-Comanche (Haynes Repair Manual);" Bob Henderson; 2005
- AA 1 Car: Recharging Your Car's Air Conditioner
Things You'll Need
- R134A refrigerant canister
- Air conditioner recharge service hose
Warnings
- Never use any type of refrigerant other than R134 A. Vehicle air conditioners made after 1995 are designed only for use with this type of freon.
Writer Bio
Owen Pearson is a freelance writer who began writing professionally in 2001, focusing on nutritional and health topics. After selling abstract art online for five years, Pearson published a nonfiction book detailing the process of building a successful online art business. Pearson obtained a bachelor's degree in art from the University of Rio Grande in 1997.
