How is the AC compressor connected to the clutch?
The AC compressor is empowered by the flywheel of a car’s engine. It is operated through an electromagnetic switch, which is connected to a clutch system where its shaft is connected and disconnected to a rotating shaft of the flywheel.
What to do if your air conditioner clutch does not engage?
If the clutch doesn’t engage, the air conditioning compressor can’t pump refrigerant. So start your diagnosis by determining if the compressor clutch works. Turn the air conditioning controls to MAX AC and start the engine. Then look at the front of the compressor clutch.
Why is the pulley on my AC compressor not working?
Check the front side of the clutch to examine its condition. Also, find out whether the clutch and the pulley are spinning. If only the pulley is rotating, the compressor clutch is having an issue, which could be stemming from several sources – a blown fuse, bad clutch oil, low-pressure lockout, or an open wire in the oil.
What does it mean when your AC compressor does not spin?
It is an ominous sign when the clutch engages but the compressor does not spin. Changing the compressor clutch could be the only solution in this case. A bad AC compressor clutch needs immediate fixing. A delay can cause serious damage to the air conditioning system and the engine.
How does an air conditioner compressor clutch work?
When the A/C is switched off, the pulley on the A/C compressor spins freely. This frees up power and increases fuel economy when the A/C is not being used. When the A/C is activated, the compressor clutch transfers power from the engine’s crankshaft to the pulley mounted on the A/C compressor. How does an A/C Compressor Clutch Work?
How can I Check my AC compressor clutch?
That results in slipping, screeching and poor cooling. To check AC compressor clutch air gap, simply insert a feeler gauge between the clutch plate and pulley with the engine off. Compare the reading to factory specifications. If the air gap is too wide, you may be able to correct it by using a different spacing washer.
What does it mean when your AC compressor is slipping?
Unlike a car’s transmission clutch, an AC compressor clutch is either transmitting full drive power to the AC compressor or not—it’s not supposed to provide partial power. A slipping AC compressor clutch is a sign of severe wear, shorted clutch coil or an incorrect air gap (explained later).
What happens if you have a bad air conditioner clutch?
If the compressor clutch gets damaged, it will keep the air conditioning system permanently on or off. A faulty compressor clutch can be replaced but it is generally recommended to replace the whole compressor to save time and additional cost. How to Diagnose if the Car AC Compressor Has Failed?