Removal

The following procedure can be performed with compressor installed in vehicle.
1. Discharge refrigerant from system.
2. Disconnect suction and discharge lines from ports. Cap lines and ports to prevent entry of dirt and moisture.
3. Remove five cylinder head retaining bolts. Tap cylinder head with a soft hammer to loosen cylinder head from valve plate. If necessary, remove gasket from head of valve plate with a sharp scraper, being careful not to scratch sealing surfaces.

Fig. 7 Valve Plate Removal:

4. Remove valve plate from cylinder block using a soft hammer and scraper, Fig. 7.
5. Using a sharp scraper, remove gasket.

Fig. 8 Front View of Valve Plate Assembly:

Fig. 9 Rear View of Valve Plate Assembly:

6. Inspect valve plate for missing, dimpled or bent suction and discharge valves, Figs. 8 and 9. Remove assembly if damaged. It is acceptable for suction valve to be a maximum of .010 inch above plate.
7. Using a sharp scraper, remove any gasket on head, valve plate and cylinder housing, being careful to avoid scratching sealing surfaces. Ensure cylinder head bores are free of all gasket material.