The accumulator/drier should be replaced if the following conditions
exist.
The accumulator/drier is perforated.
The refrigerant system has been open to the atmosphere for one to two
months (depends on the relative humidity of the geographic region).
There is evidence of moisture in the system such as internal corrosion of
metal refrigerant lines or if the refrigerant oil is thick and dark.
There is more than 147.85ml (5 oz) of refrigerant oil in the
accumulator/drier indicating that the bleed hole is clogged. This check should
be made if the compressor is replaced due to lack of performance (internal
damage).
The accumulator/drier should not be replaced for
the following conditions:
There is a loss of refrigerant charge.
The system is contaminated (such as if the compressor has seized, but
excluding moisture in the system or more than 147.85ml (5 oz) of refrigerant
oil in the accumulator). If the compressor has seized, replace the orifice tube.
A component such as a condenser, evaporator or compressor (except as
described above) is replaced.
A dent is found in the outer shell of the accumulator/drier.