Parts for your 1995 Mitsubishi Pajero-Receiver driers

1995 Mitsubishi Pajero Receiver‑Drier: What It Does and When To Replace It

For the 1995 Mitsubishi Pajero (second‑gen, TXV‑type A/C system), a receiver‑drier is fitted as standard. This is shown in Mitsubishi’s Workshop Manual (Group 55 – Heating & Air Conditioning, 1991–1999 Pajero/Montero), which diagrams the liquid line receiver‑drier mounted by the condenser. The Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue for V2/V4/V6 Pajero variants also lists a receiver‑drier assembly in the condenser circuit, and independent manuals such as the Haynes HVAC coverage for Pajero/Montero confirm a TXV system that uses a receiver‑drier rather than a suction accumulator. So yes—this model uses a receiver‑drier, and it’s a normal service item when the A/C is opened.

On this Pajero, the receiver‑drier’s job is threefold: it stores a small buffer of liquid refrigerant, filters out debris, and—most critically—keeps moisture out of the system with a desiccant pack. That steady, dry liquid feed helps the thermal expansion valve meter refrigerant properly, which is what delivers cold air at the vents. On many Pajero variants, a pressure switch may also be mounted on or near the drier, making it a bit of a hub for A/C protection.

Because R134a systems use hygroscopic oil, any time the circuit is opened to the atmosphere, the desiccant starts soaking up moisture. Once saturated, it can’t be “vacuumed dry.” That’s why best practice is to replace the receiver‑drier whenever the system has been open, after compressor failure, or if performance has dropped off due to contamination or internal restriction. As a rule of thumb, if the history’s unknown, swapping the drier during an A/C overhaul is cheap insurance.

• Replace the receiver‑drier when the system is opened, after a compressor/major component change, or if contamination is suspected.
• Use new O‑rings lubricated with the correct oil, cap lines to keep air out, and evacuate thoroughly before charging by weight.
• If a compressor has let go, flush the lines and condenser where applicable, and consider replacing the TXV as well.
• Have the job done by an ARCtick‑licensed technician in Australia or a licensed refrigeration tech in New Zealand—refrigerant handling laws apply.

Tell‑tales of a tired or restricted drier include weak cooling at idle, erratic vent temps, or uneven frosting on lines near the TXV. Replacing it at the right time protects the new compressor, keeps acid and moisture at bay, and restores that crisp Pajero cabin chill.

Popular questions about 1995 Mitsubishi Pajero receiver‑driers

Does a 1995 Pajero actually have a receiver‑drier?
Yes. The 1995 Pajero uses a TXV‑type A/C system that employs a receiver‑drier in the liquid line near the condenser, as shown in Mitsubishi’s Workshop Manual and parts catalogue listings.

When should the receiver‑drier be replaced?
Replace it any time the A/C system is opened, after compressor failure, or if you’re chasing contamination or moisture issues. It’s inexpensive and protects the rest of the system.

Can a saturated drier be saved by pulling a vacuum?
No. Vacuuming removes air and some moisture from the lines, but it won’t regenerate the desiccant. Once the drier’s soaked or contaminated, replacement is the proper fix.