A/C Clutch - Compressor

[Kens1992mtxSHO]

I have searched and searched the forum for my friggin' A/C which is not working. Basically I want to know what's wrong with it. Unfortunately I don't know jack about a/c systems.

I went to recharge it thinking that was the problem but the gauge shows it was full. So now what?

Here are the symptoms:

1. A/C does not come on

2. I can hear a click about every 5 seconds when I turn the A/C on and the RPMs drop a little. I think this is the compressor trying to turn on.

Any one with some A/C experience or that can point me in the right direction would be a great help to me.

Thank you,

 

[average sho]

if the compressor is not on when adding, you must jump the high pressure switch with a paper clip.

give me a call i can take a look at it
202-345-0334 matt

 

[Kens1992mtxSHO]

Matt-

Thanks for your help. I really appreciate it!

 

[projectSHO89]

You have a low charge if the clutch is cycling every 5 seconds.

There is no need to jump the cycling switch, the pressure from your refrigerant container will provide the needed pressure to "make" the switch.

Let me guess - you have one of those el-cheapo low-side-only chinese gauges from wal-mart instead of a real manifold set, right?

Steve

 

[Kens1992mtxSHO]

You have a low charge if the clutch is cycling every 5 seconds.

There is no need to jump the cycling switch, the pressure from your refrigerant container will provide the needed pressure to "make" the switch.

Let me guess - you have one of those el-cheapo low-side-only chinese gauges from wal-mart instead of a real manifold set, right?

Steve

Actually, I was using the gauge that came with the r134a recharge package. Once the compressor was jumped the pressure went down and I refilled it. A/C runs ice cold now. Thanks for your input. I'll keep in mind that all I need to do is charge it next time.

 

[sccolbert]

your ac clutch gap could also be out of spec. If there is too much air gap between the clutch face and the pulley, the clutch wont engage. I cant recall off the top of my head what the spec is, but it's listed in the chiltons manual. You can pull the clutch of and remove a spacer from behind it (assuming there are some there) or also replace the clutch. (This was the case with my car)

of course what the others are saying could also be a cause. So this is just another thing to look at if the other stuff checks out ok.