A/C compressor clutch

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Jun 6, 2000 | 03:58 PM

joew

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A/C compressor clutch

Okay, summer has arrived and I'm having trouble with my a/c. When I first start my F-150 up, the compressor runs normally and the air is COLD! But, after it cycles a couple of times, it stops and does not come back on. I can turn the motor off for a few minutes and it will cycle normally again, but only a couple of times. Oh by the way, it is the old r-12 system and I have already paid to have freon put in (the garage guy guaranteed it was up to capacity.). I took it to the dealer who said it was the "electromagnetic clutch" and would cost about 65$ for parts and another 150$ for labor. My question is, "Do you think this is really my problem?" AND, "Can I fix this myself without having to evacuate the whole system?" HELP, I'm beginning to sweat. Thanks
JoeW

Jun 6, 2000 | 07:55 PM

nitro94

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A/C compressor clutch

First lets see if it is the clutch. (Warning), you need to be very careful doing this. After the compressor has quit take a long rod and tap in on the clutch plate with the a/c commanded on and engine running. If the clutch coil is week the plate will engage and compressor will run until it cycles off again. The coil can usually be replaced without removing freon if you have enough room to work. It does take removers and installers to work on most types of compressors though. Best done with the aid of someone who has been there before so you can learn.

Jun 8, 2000 | 09:39 AM

joew

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A/C compressor clutch

Thanks, yes, I can tap on the clutch plate and it will engage. I have also sprayed wd-40 on it and it seems to work a little longer. It will still cycle on and off a couple of times before refusing to cycle back on. I'm not a very good mechanic, but I would like to save some money if possible. Do you think I should attempt this?
Thanks, again
Joew

Jun 8, 2000 | 08:14 PM

nitro94

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A/C compressor clutch

If you will give me some info on year make model etc. I will try to supply you with a list of tools you will need and a discription of (how to).

Jun 9, 2000 | 12:36 PM

joew

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A/C compressor clutch

Thanks, again. I have a '91 F-150 4x4 shortbed. It has the 302 engine. Is there any other info you need. Any help is appreciated. It sure is getting HOT !!!
Joew

Jun 9, 2000 | 07:12 PM

nitro94

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A/C compressor clutch

On the front of the compressor there should be a small bolt about 5/16 head size. Remove that. Clutch plate can now be removed. A special tool that screws onto the plate and pushes against the compressor shaft makes this easy. There are shims (very small washers) between this plate and the compressor. Watch for them. Next the pulley can be removed by removing the snap ring and carefully taping the pulley off the compressor. Next remove the snap ring that retains the coil and remove it. Reassemble in reverse order using shims to maintain 25 thousands clearance between the pulley face and clutch plate. Add or subtract shims as necessary. Hopefully there's enough room to work with out removng compressor from vehicle so you don't have to remove freon. I would advise changing all three pieces with new ones but have always left it up to the customer. I think I described this right. Its much easier to do it than describe it. Good luck I'll check back.