Air Conditioner Compressor

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Oct 25, 2010 | 05:41 PM

knuckleheadnut

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From: Stafford, Virginia

Air Conditioner Compressor

is the a/c compressor supposed to be engaged in all mode settings except panel, off and feet... regardless of the temperature control **** setting?

air gap=0.020 in panel, off and feet mode. otherwise, it is always engaged if the ignition is on or the truck is running.

both pins and plug connections at a/c compressor housing look like new. A/C blows cold air just fine. thanks- Cole

Oct 25, 2010 | 07:42 PM

F350-6

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From: Texas

I believe that is correct. There's only a couple of settings the compressor stays off.

Oct 25, 2010 | 07:59 PM

knuckleheadnut

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From: Stafford, Virginia

sooo...

let me get this straight... the a/c compressor is engaged and pumping fluid even when (for example) the mode selection is defrost and the temp control setting is set to high heat. (as long as the ambient outside air temp is greater than 43*F, IAW owners man).

What a primitive design then. I thought A/C technology had advanced further than that by '02. But I must be wrong. thanks-

Oct 25, 2010 | 08:50 PM

F350-6

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From: Texas

It runs to help control humidity. I remember the days when you turned the vent to blow on the windshield in the winter, but also turned on the AC so the heat didn't fog up the window.

Oct 25, 2010 | 09:48 PM

clem1226

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From: Bend Oregon

most AC systems run that way, the AC is used to control the humidity...I had to run around for a year w/o ac in my truck and it was almost impossible to keep the windows clear with 2 adults and 3 kids in the cab.

Oct 25, 2010 | 09:52 PM

truckeemtnfords

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From: Fallon,NV & Bainbridge OH

As stated the ac evaporator acts as a de-humidifer to pull moisture out of the air to help keep the windows clear.

Oct 25, 2010 | 10:02 PM

Izzy351

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From: Dallas-Ft. Worth

...and yes, that's correct. Off in all modes except feet only, off, and panel vent.

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Oct 26, 2010 | 07:31 AM

Mark250

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From: Carthage, Mo

When it starts to get cool in the fall, I unplug mine at the compressor. On most vehicles in the past, I have put a switch under the dash to turn it off.

Oct 26, 2010 | 12:09 PM

#10

knuckleheadnut

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From: Stafford, Virginia

Mark- pulling the switch at the compressor sounds like a great idea. I just can't see running the comp when it's not needed. That way I'll save it for when I retire down south (some day, I hope) and it'll be running all the time.