Why does AC clutch stay engaged?
The low-pressure switch tells the car that the clutch needs to engage and disengage and will shut off the A/C compressor. When the switch goes bad, it will no longer be able to measure pressure and will leave the clutch engaged the entire time.
What causes AC compressor clutch to lock up?
Without professional maintenance, your car’s conditioning compressor can seize or lock up. Some of the causes for car air conditioning compressor locking up include incorrect or low quality refrigerant being used, low coolant levels, and improper lubrication.
How do you unstick a compressor?
How to Reverse a Stuck Compresser
- Turn off the power to the unit containing the compressor.
- Remove the compressor’s run lead with an adjustable wrench or a screwdriver.
- Remove the compressor’s start lead.
- Attach the compressor’s start lead to the run position and the run lead to the start position.
Why does AC compressor clutch engage and disengage?
An air conditioner clutch that repeatedly engages and disengages is usually an indicator that the vehicle’s system is low on refrigerant. The reduced pressure causes the switches to misread the pressure of the refrigerant. Leaks allow moisture to invade the system as the coolant leaks.
Can you drive with a locked up AC compressor?
If you disconnected the wire to the AC clutch, you could drive with a locked-up compressor. Just turn off the air conditioning. The pulley will be disconnected from the compressor when the clutch disengages the pulley from the belt.
How do I free a stuck AC compressor?
Debris. Dirt, sediment and other debris trapped in the compressor pump and hoses can clog the compressor and lead to seizure. Disconnecting the hoses and pump and flushing them thoroughly before conducting an oil change and refrigeration refill should free up the AC compressor.
What is a magnetic clutch relay?
Electromechanical A/C Clutch Relay They use an electromagnet (coil) that controls an arm that swings between two contacts. As low current passes through the coil, a magnetic field is created that draws the relay’s arm towards the high current circuit.
When to disengage the a / C clutch on a Mercedes?
If no problems are detected such as low refrigerant in the system, it sends a signal to disengage the A/C compressor clutch. Otherwise the A/C compressor engages and starts to compresses the refrigerant.
What to do if an A / C compressor clutch does not disengage?
A/C compressors are difficult to work with because of the refrigerant stored inside. When a compressor clutch does not disengage, it will cause the refrigerant to build up and freeze the line. To disengage the clutch, a switch must be replaced.
Why is my a / C compressor not working on my Mercedes?
One other reason why the A/C compressor does not engage is the fact that the system may be low on R134 refrigerant. Typically older cars may have very slow leaks that may require top off with refrigerant every couple of years. You can use a R134a recharge kit to recharge your system if the A/C compressor is not working.
Which is the clutchless variable displacement a / C compressor?
A clutch less variable displacement A/C compressor can be found on models such as W203 C-CLass and W211 E-Class. You will not be able to check the operation of the A/C compressor clutch on such compressors because there isn’t one. The following video explains how the clutchless variable displacement A/C compressors work.