Refrigerant Containment Switch
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Lincoln Aviator. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The refrigerant containment switch is used to interrupt A/C compressor operation in the event of high system discharge pressures.
- The refrigerant containment switch is mounted on a Schrader valve-type fitting on the high pressure side of the compressor manifold and tube assembly.
- A valve depressor, located inside the threaded end of the refrigerant containment switch, presses on the Schrader valve stem.
- This allows the refrigerant containment switch to monitor the A/C compressor discharge pressure.
- When the A/C compressor discharge pressure rises, the switch contacts open, disengaging the A/C compressor. When the pressure drops, the contacts close to allow operation of the A/C compressor.
- It is not necessary to discharge the refrigerant system to remove the refrigerant containment switch.