Abstract: A modular accumulator dehydrator assembly for a vehicle air conditioning system uses an array of common components to provide configurations adapted to fit several possible orientations and locations of lines in the system. A cylindrical canister is closed by an end cap, to which a block is attached by a single bolt. Either a bottom or top feed set of inlet pipes is inserted in the end cap, depending on the chosen orientation for the canister. Then, a pair of tubes is added to the outside of the block, which are turned and bent to the proper position for joining to the compressor and evaporator line before brazing in place in the block. A single bolt is tightened to join the block to the end cap, which tightens a pair of O-ring seals to seal the block to end cap connection.

Abstract: A bottom outlet type air conditioning accumulator canister avoids the drain down problem inherent with bottom outlets by providing an internal return tube that has two complete loops, including three legs and an upper and lower bight. A bleed hole assembly for aspirating out collected liquid is located in the lower bight, while the upper bight prevents drain down through the bleed hole when the system sits idle. The upper bight is also located just below the upper end of the return tube, so that a pair of saddle bag style desiccant pouches can be hung over the upper tube end and rest on the upper bight.

Abstract: A liquid accumulator for a motor vehicle air conditioning system having a liquid separator and return pipe having an inlet end formed with a flared or trumpet shape that forms a baffle to prevent liquid entry into the return pipe.