A/C not working properly?

Tiny
HANNAH2023!
  • MEMBER
  • 1996 CHEVROLET BLAZER
  • 225,000 MILES
My A/C blows cold on the A/C function but does not work on any other function such as max or defrost etc. When I come to a stop or slow driving it doesn’t blow at all, only when I’m at a steady speed.
Does not blow strong at all only very low.
Fan comes on but not the A/C.
Saturday, July 1st, 2023 AT 11:45 AM

5 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,885 POSTS
When you say it is very weak, that makes me think the blower motor isn't working properly. Is that the case? As far as the A/C is not working, do you notice that the A/C clutch on the compressor isn't engaging? You would hear a clicking sound when it engages. Also, have you checked the charge in the system? It could be low.

Take a look at the link below and let me know:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/air-conditioner-how-to-add-freon

Also, make sure the condenser in front of the radiator (which looks like a smaller radiator) isn't dirty or clogged with debris. If it is, spray it with a garden hose to clean it.

Let me know.

Joe
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Saturday, July 1st, 2023 AT 8:42 PM
Tiny
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Thanks for responding. I am a single mom so I’m trying my best to do it myself. I checked the filter, and it was fine. Checked the fuse and it was not blown. Fan comes on. Compressor is cold. Idk what else to check or to do.
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Friday, July 14th, 2023 AT 12:52 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,885 POSTS
Hi,

If the compressor is engaging, it should be cold unless the system needs to be charged, there is a blend air door not working correctly, or there is an AC component not functioning.

Since the condenser fan under the hood turns on, that tells me the system is operating. So, is the problem air flow, temperature, or something different?

Let me know. Also, hang in there. We'll get it figured out. I just need to have a better understanding. My biggest question is if the blower motor in the vehicle is not working. Also, the airflow directions and temperature controls operate using engine vacuum. There is a chance we have little or no vacuum to the system.

You know, the more I think about it, the more I suspect we have a vacuum issue. I attached a pic below showing the vacuum schematic. At the bottom of the pic is a legend. Anything listed as Mode deals with airflow direction. Do me a favor. Start the engine and listen to see if you hear a hissing sound under the dash near the controller.

Let me know.

Take care,

Joe
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Friday, July 14th, 2023 AT 8:33 PM
Tiny
HANNAH2023!
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  • 3 POSTS
Figured it out!
I turned the car on and looked at the compressor, it was off. When I turn the A/C on it starts spinning then clicks off then starts again. That must be it. Is that fixable on my own or does it require replacement?
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Saturday, July 15th, 2023 AT 9:45 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,885 POSTS
Hi,

The compressor clutch should cycle on and off. However, it shouldn't do it too quickly. How fast was it happening?

Let me know.

Joe
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Saturday, July 15th, 2023 AT 10:14 PM

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