AC compressor issues that could be more complexed
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2nd Gear
Joined: Jul 2022
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AC compressor issues that could be more complexed
Ford F-350 diesel 2001 engine, converted RV Ambulance.
TLDR: replaced AC compressor with a new unit twice. They broke down less than 300 miles each time replaced. I’m thinking it’s something more than the AC compressor unit. I’m looking for advice or knowledge of this situation
Long story:
I got this used converted ambulance. I had it looked at by two mechanics, they said it was fine. I took it out on its first long drive and with-in the first two hours AC goes out. I proceeded to drive 12 hours towards my destination and stopped at a Walmart parking lot to spend the night. Unfortunately, the truck would not start the next morning. I had a few professional diagnose the problem and they said it was the AC compressor that made it not start.
We replaced that part, and it started to work. However, after about 250 miles the AC goes out again and I was stuck with the same problem at a gas station. I, once again, got a mobile mechanic to come out and replace that part again. It worked after he did that.
After another 200 or so miles the AC once again goes off. I look at the engine and the belt is locking up. There is red dust around the part. I expect it to break down to the point where the truck would not start up again.
it seems like it’s more than the AC compressor. I’m looking for advice or any knowledge of my situation.
Thank you in advance.
TLDR: replaced AC compressor with a new unit twice. They broke down less than 300 miles each time replaced. I’m thinking it’s something more than the AC compressor unit. I’m looking for advice or knowledge of this situation
Long story:
I got this used converted ambulance. I had it looked at by two mechanics, they said it was fine. I took it out on its first long drive and with-in the first two hours AC goes out. I proceeded to drive 12 hours towards my destination and stopped at a Walmart parking lot to spend the night. Unfortunately, the truck would not start the next morning. I had a few professional diagnose the problem and they said it was the AC compressor that made it not start.
We replaced that part, and it started to work. However, after about 250 miles the AC goes out again and I was stuck with the same problem at a gas station. I, once again, got a mobile mechanic to come out and replace that part again. It worked after he did that.
After another 200 or so miles the AC once again goes off. I look at the engine and the belt is locking up. There is red dust around the part. I expect it to break down to the point where the truck would not start up again.
it seems like it’s more than the AC compressor. I’m looking for advice or any knowledge of my situation.
Thank you in advance.
Lead Driver
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 6,129
Likes: 1,919
From: Ponca City, OK
Are they flushing the system and at least installing a new orifice tube? Every ac compressor I've seen has a disclaimer saying no warranty if no proof of a flush, new orifice tube, and new accumulator/dryer. What is failing on these new compressors? To smoke a belt like that it has to be the pump not getting oiled or trash plugging it up, or the clutch bearing locking up. Did the new compressors have new clutches already installed?
Lead Driver
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 6,129
Likes: 1,919
From: Ponca City, OK
Mine has an orifice. That's what was in it when I went through the AC system, so that's what went back in. There were expansion valves listed on Rockauto right along with the regular orifices so I assume one could be put in it's place, but honestly don't know for sure.
FTE Community Team
Joined: Mar 2017
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From: Florida
Lead Driver
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 6,129
Likes: 1,919
From: Ponca City, OK
Edit: Yep 99-03 7.3 Powerstroke. I'm in the right place.
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FTE Community Team
Joined: Mar 2017
Posts: 3,341
Likes: 1,057
From: Florida
oops. My mistake. I thought I was on the 2017+ sub forum. I don’t know how I got here.
2024 trucks recently delivered in the last 2 months have had a rash of early compressor failures.
I’ll exit this sub forum with an apology.
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Lead Driver
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 6,129
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From: Ponca City, OK
No sweat, playa's eff up.
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Joined: Jan 2005
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From: Henderson, NV
LOL. I could hear the gears turning in your head as I read this.
FTE Chapter Leader
Joined: Jan 2005
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From: Henderson, NV
https://www.achrnews.com/articles/14...ed-refrigerant
Laughing Gas
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 1,106
Likes: 154
From: Kansas City KS
I was thinking the compressor got hot enough it smoked the clutch bearing, maybe it’s not possible but that’s where my mind went
FTE Chapter Leader
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 13,129
Likes: 4,727
From: Henderson, NV
FWIW, this is when my compressor locked up.
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...l#post20532290