A/C question

[LongIslandSHO]

Hi everyone...
Ok, so I searched the forum, and I adjusted the clutch gap by removing the shim, but my compressor still doesn't engage. I can move the clutch by hand, but knocking it around and whatnot doesn't do anything.
I've read about people using jumper wires to manually engage the clutch (incase there isn't enough charge running through the wires?) but I have no idea where I am supposed to do that. I see the low? pressure switch on top of the evaporator, and the plug that goes to the clutch/compressor, but I have no idea where the other switch is.... I have a '93 3.0 which uses R12 refrigerant. I can see where the high and low valves are...
Anyway, before I go and try to install an entirely new compressor/clutch, I was wondering if maybe someone could help explain how to further troubleshoot my A/C, why it's not engaging at all, and perhaps lead me in the right direction?
I'd appreciate it.
Thanks,.
Gregg

 

[93rev2sev]

It needs to have sufficient charge to operate the compressor. Since you are R12, charging it will be difficult. It probably needs to be retrofitted, vacuumed and recharged. Do you have an AC manifold guage set?

 

[LongIslandSHO]

It needs to have sufficient charge to operate the compressor. Since you are R12, charging it will be difficult. It probably needs to be retrofitted, vacuumed and recharged. Do you have an AC manifold guage set?

Hey...
yah, I kinda figured it might be because a lack of a sufficient charge... I just wasn't sure if there was some way that I could at least check to see if the clutch will engage before I add the expense of sourcing R12... I do have a manifold guage set... it is definitely low... but, is there any way for me to at least check the compressor for operation without adding new freon first? Ya know, if the compressor/clutch is shot, I'd like to know before I add the freon... this way I can save the freon for after I install a new compressor.
Thanks again.

 

[lowc]

you can jump the presure switch with a paper clip and the compresor should engage

 

[LongIslandSHO]

you can jump the presure switch with a paper clip and the compresor should engage

Ok, I know I'm gonna sound like an idiot asking this, but how do I do that - I mean, where am I sticking the two ends of the paperclips? I assume that one end goes on the switch? (or does one end go into the plug part?) where does the other end go?

 

[SHObill]

Also... The CCRM has a relay in it that controls the A/C engagement!

 

[LongIslandSHO]

Also... The CCRM has a relay in it that controls the A/C engagement!

ok... even though I just did a full top and front 60k to get my car working again, I'm still an amateur... so I have no idea what a CCRM is... sounds like some sort of relay module... but where is it? lol.
Thanks.:thankyou:

 

[SHObill]

Constant Control Relay Module
Its under the plastic info cover on the right front above the rad. Give it a sharp smack with a flat palm & see if it works after. Or just swap it to test.

 

[LongIslandSHO]

Constant Control Relay Module
Its under the plastic info cover on the right front above the rad. Give it a sharp smack with a flat palm & see if it works after. Or just swap it to test.

Awesome... I'll try that tomorrow.. thank you.
Also, anyone with tips about jumping the system with the paperclip? I'm still clueless about where I'm actually sticking the ends of the clip.

 

[lowc]

Awesome... I'll try that tomorrow.. thank you.
Also, anyone with tips about jumping the system with the paperclip? I'm still clueless about where I'm actually sticking the ends of the clip.

put the paper clip in both pins on the connector side of the switch

 

[LongIslandSHO]

put the paper clip in both pins on the connector side of the switch

Thanks!! I really appreciate all the knowledge and advice!

 

[Wakeboy1337]

Thanks!! I really appreciate all the knowledge and advice!

I did that last night to see if my Compressor was any good. Oh my god you should have heard that noise. It made my skin crawl. My compressor died with a bang last Sunday

 

[LongIslandSHO]

put the paper clip in both pins on the connector side of the switch

:thankyou: This worked - the compressor kicked right on, and it works perfectly, no noise, no grinding, etc. So because it's not going on by itself, is the likely cause just a low charge? What kind of R-12 equivalent does anyone recommend?

Thanks again guys. you've all been so helpful! I can't wait to share the pics of my SHO.

 

[lowc]

you need to get the r 134 retro fit kit its pretty cheep i think its been a while since ive had to buy one. if you charge it up and it still dont work you will need to replace the presure switch

 

[luigisho]

I think there is a product sold at the parts store called freeze 12 that is compatible. Some places I heard ask for a license since it still contains some HFCs. I would look on the internet to order some.

 

[lowc]

I think there is a product sold at the parts store called freeze 12 that is compatible. Some places I heard ask for a license since it still contains some HFCs. I would look on the internet to order some.

that is correct you are supose to have a license to buy any freeon but most places atleast that i deal with have never asked for it although i do have it

 

[nolan in blaine]

Hey I have the same problem. Is the CCRM the thing with a big "M" on it? where are the pins im looking for?