How to check if condenser engages?

[Blast7]

I did a search and couldn't find the answer I'm looking for. I think that my a/c condenser is engaging when I turn my heater on but I don't know the proper way to check it and make sure. Also, if it is engaging then what is the plan of action to take care of this problem?

 

[Mr Anonymous]

You mean compressor not condenser, right? wink

The A/C compressor will cycle on when Auto, A/C or any defrost setting is selected in order to remove mositure from the air. It shouldn't come on when the heater (or floor setting more precisely) is manually selected.

 

[Blast7]

I don't use the Auto function but when I turn on my heater my RPM's drop to 800 at idle and then go back up to 900RPM. Sometimes it will be so bad that it will stall out. You can also hear a lope at idle and it shows only slightly on the tach. Also, at night when I turn my heater on the headlights will dim.

<small>[ November 24, 2002, 09:07 PM: Message edited by: Blast7 ]</small>

 

[jthomas68]

Turn the MAX A/C on and look at the compressor pulley.It should activate within a few seconds.

 

[sdpatt]

If the compressor is causing your idle to drop, you need to reset your idle program. It shouldn't be running with the climate control set on FLOOR or VENT. It will run intermittantly on all other settings.

 

[Blast7]

I'll reset the idle program and report back. Thanks for the replies. I'll also check the compressor pulley when I turn the Max A/C on.