Looks like I have to do this. It will be my second rodeo. I repaired my 96 and now it appears my 02 needs to be done. cheapest labor only shop I can find is $650.00. I can do in one full day probably. I hate it though , I am a big guy with huge hands. I dont fit under the dash very well.

My question is about upgraded parts. has anyone found a longer lasting better working evap core? I know the Mopar is the best bet for a good fit. Also has anyone found a direct fit fan that blows harder than the oem? I may replace it while Im at it. it seems a little tired.

Any good places to get cheap mopar? I used a discount house out of New Mexico last time.

 

you dont need to remove whole dash, lower steering wheel/2 bolts at each door post/all screws along top of dash/ bolts outside firewall (some hidden behind ECM) lift up dash and slide heater box out thru the bottom



this pic shows too much stuff off, basically use grap handle and tie up the dash

 

Thanks. I remember I had it pulled out a litle further last time. I had disconnected most of the wires going into the dash. Does your technique require all the wires being disconnected?

 

It was quite a long time ago I did it, IIRC only wiring unhooked was for the heaterbox...NO dash wiring unhooked, Pics dont show it but you lift the dash as high as possible and the box will slide out. IT took about 2rs if I remember right, and I had unhooked more tha I really needed to.

dont forget to Cap of the AC lines, as moisture is sucked into the air dryer, and it does not take long to contaminate the system, I used a couple of plastic caps I had laying around they pressed tightly on to the opened lines

 

The dashes are built on two swivel bolts. Disconnect batteries, drop column, remove glove box because all the crap will spill everywhere, remove about 5 small screws along the base of the windshield. Dash will now swivel down. Just grab it and rotate it. it takes a little force but not too much. Make sure you disconnect the gear indicator cable when you drop the column. It'll snap easy if you don't.

 

Thanks for all the info. Mine is a six speed. I will need to move the handshaker I suppose.

I put two cans of freon in it to make sure the compressor was kicking off properly. It blows nice and cold. Maybe I will just carry freon with me everywhere!!! Lift pumps and freon, never leave home without them