A/C Compressor is always running?
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Senior User
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 169
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From: Cincinnati
A/C Compressor is always running?
I have a 99 F250 PSD and my A/C compressor is always running even when I have the controls on vent or evn when my heat is on. I would like to get this issue resolved before my compressor takes a s**t on me. Any ideas would be very helpful. Thank you
Hotshot
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 17,988
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From: La La Land
It's normal operation. When the heater is running, the refrigeration system de-humidifies the air, making the defroster work far better. There are only a couple of settings where the A/C isn't operational.
As a result, the clutch cycles far more than in older models, and you need to pay attention to the "clutch air gap". That's usually the first thing that brings down the A/C.
There are lots of articles here on properly setting that gap. Here's one:
http://springerpop.net/F350/air_gap.html
BTW, you could have just as easily described it as "before my compressor fails". It's a family-friendly forum.
Pop
Tuned
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 290
Likes: 5
From: Greene County,TN.
Alex, check the coil for power with a testlight(or disconnect the coil). The coil shouldn't have any power and the clutch shouldn't be engaged when in the vent position. This way you distinguish if it is an electrical problem or mechanical(clutch being toast).
Thread Starter
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Senior User
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 169
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From: Cincinnati
Ok i jus went out to the truck to test what you guys suggested and now the A/C compressor is not turning at all even when i out it on max a/c. I used a volt meter due that all my tools are at work and the coil did not read any votale while it was on vent or max a/c. My a/c work perfect all summer so I do not understand why the compressor is not turning at all now.
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Hotshot
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 17,988
Likes: 207
From: La La Land
You could be low on refrigerant. The low-side safety switch will prevent the compressor from coming on if there's not enough refrigerant to circulate the oil in the system. You'll need refrigeration gauges to find out.
Also, what's the air gap? Read this:
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/5...ml#post4464164
Pop
Also, what's the air gap? Read this:
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/5...ml#post4464164
Pop
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Senior User
Joined: May 2010
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From: Los Angeles, CA
May be an obvious thing to point out, but the pulley itself always spins with the engine running. The inner portion is attached via clutch to the compressor. That part is supposed to cycle and spin with the pulley or remain stationary compared to the pulley.
If the inner portion no longer spins, try applying 12V to the connector on the clutch (not the harness side, but the clutch side). See if the clutch clamps down. If you do this while the engine running, you should see the inner portion begin to spin. This will prove a good clutch and a workable air gap. If this works but you can't get the clutch to engage with the harness connected, and the ac in AC then you most likely have a hi/lo switch stopping your 12v clutch signal. Good place to start.
If the inner portion no longer spins, try applying 12V to the connector on the clutch (not the harness side, but the clutch side). See if the clutch clamps down. If you do this while the engine running, you should see the inner portion begin to spin. This will prove a good clutch and a workable air gap. If this works but you can't get the clutch to engage with the harness connected, and the ac in AC then you most likely have a hi/lo switch stopping your 12v clutch signal. Good place to start.
Elder User
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 574
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From: Vader
Hey Springer, I just wanted to chime in and say your instructions where great, I replaced my clutch, pulley and coil yesterday, today it was nearly 90 deg and the a/c worked right away AND great. I didn't even have to put it on max a/c. Thanks again
Hotshot
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 17,988
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From: La La Land
I need to revise my write-up to reflect the procedure about the snap ring that holds the bearing onto the compressor snout, and how to R&R the coil.
Someday.............. I'll get a Round Tuit...
Pop
Someday.............. I'll get a Round Tuit...
Pop
Elder User
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 574
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From: Vader
Yes, but I figured it out. I thought it was closer to the shaft, but too dirty to see, turns out it was in plain sight LOL, I broke my spreader tool getting it off. Also, the coil didn't want to come off, and the new one was a bear to get on there straight.
Last edited by damons; Jul 24, 2011 at 12:13 AM. Reason: Spelling
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