Hey guys,
Running the defroster lately, Ive noticed that I no longer noticed the "click" and subsequent drag from the A/C compressor.
So, I turned on the A/C and the compressors' clutch did not engage.

So whats involved in changing out the A/C compressor?
I have no way to capture the freon, so I assume this is a process that must be done by a shop?

Thanks guys.
Rich.

 

Could just be low on R-134. That would be a simple fix

 

Or a bad sensor.

I don't know if Dodge's do this, but Fords do,, if it's too cold outside, the A/C will not cycle, even if on A/C mode.

Merrick

 

You really need to find out why the AC clutch didn't engage. Things that come to mind.....low charge, bad clutch coil (usually accompanied by noise), low psi cutout switch....plus a few more, but those are the obvious.

 

Yes, I agree that I still need to do some investigating.
There are two things that leads me to believe that the compressor (Or clutch) may be going:

1) Towards the end of the summer, when I'd engage the A/C for the first time that day, the compressor would "clunk". Wouldnt do it any more after that, just that initial "Clunk" when first engaged.

2) Its been cold here, very cold. I noticed Monday when I first started the truck, for the first 30 seconds (or so) there was an odd noise coming from the front of the engine.
Tuesday, same noise when started in the morning, lasting some 30 seconds.
The noise is coming from the area of the compressor.
Best verbal description would be a piece of cardboard striking the spokes of a high rpm bicycle wheel.

After driving it 20+ minutes and achieving full operating temps, the compressor clutch still does not engage.


I appreciate your input guys, all ideas and advice are welcome.

Rich.

 

Did you check the fuse to the A/C clutch?

Remove the belt and see if the compressor is free, if so, check the power to the a/c clutch and see if its hot when you turn the a/c on. (Fuse OK)

If you have power, clutch could be bad. Don't know what type a/c compressor you have, some will allow you to change the clutch, some you can't.

If you have to replace the compressor, and you do it yourself, its still going to be a 500 dollar bill time you get the dryer and orfice tube, evacuated, and recharged.

Dave

 

normal normal normal! I have no technical explanation as to why, but I've seen that since probably 94. On the cards in spokes noise.......THAT doesn't sound good.

 

Well, now that the outside temps are creeping above -cold, the compressor seems to be working once again.
Im assuming it was the extreme cold temps that prevented the compressor from working.



Rich