Compressor/Clutch not energizing

[lotekinc]

Hi everyone.

I just purchased another SHO (had one back in 2001) - so I'm back on this great forum.

I'm trying to diagnose A/C problems.

To start out, I was unable to charge the system because the Compressor is not energizing. Even when the pressure switch is hotwired - no "click" on the clutch. The clutch is free and not seized.

I was told that the A/C was working when last parked (it's been grazing for 2 years).

Thanks in advance for your diagnosis.

Lyle

 

[cobrakidd03]

Ihad a similar problem with my A/C when I bought my SHO in December. The compressor did not come on after pressing the Max A/C. Well a few weeks ago I changed out my EATC for a new one and I had A/C!! Not really sure why but as long as it works Im happy

 

[SHOZ123]

Might be the CCRM/IRCM too.

 

[hawkeye18]

Check to see whether you have 12 volts going to the clutch. There is a two wire plug on the front of the clutch (well, facing the front of the car) that provides (or is supposed to provide) voltage to the coil. If you're not getting voltage there with the cycling switch shorted (you made sure to short the side with the wires, right? ) and MAX A/C then there is something wrong with either the EATC or the CCRM. If you are getting voltage there, then while it's energized hit the clutch (the part that isn't spinning) with a broom handle or other convenient pokey thing and see if that gets it to work. If it does, the clutch is gapped too far and will need re-shimming (there are thousands of posts on this). If THAT doesn't work, then the coil is fried (this is unusual) and will require replacement.

 

[SHOZ123]

To test the coil take an ohm reading of it across the leads. If it's open it will not work, if it is near shorted (really low ohms) it will blow the fuse.

 

[digger]

Might need to remove shim from interface between clutch and compressor. I just did it and posted elsewhere in this forum with pics.

 

[digger]

Go here:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/digger1time/sets/72157618637372101/

 

[sdpatt]

Might need to remove shim from interface between clutch and compressor. I just did it and posted elsewhere in this forum with pics.

For reducing the gap if you have only a single shim installed, another option is to grind the existing shim to a thinner dimension by rubbing it on sand/emory paper on a flat surface.

 

[lotekinc]

Thanks to all that responded to my inquiry. I removed the compressor clutch and pulley (that snap ring is a knuckle buster!) and reinstalled using a single shim. A/C is now blowing cold. I'm delighted, since my worst fear was a $800 A/C service to replace the entire system.

Regards,

Lyle