A/C compressor cycles on and off every 3-4 seconds

Tiny
CSGMAIL1
  • MEMBER
  • 1997 MERCURY MYSTIQUE
  • 124 MILES
A/C got warmer and warmer last year. Winter was near. Didn't worry about it. Summer came. Got worried about it. Added E-Z Chill R134a as instructed on can. Compressor started but goes on and off every few seconds. Burning up in Milwaukee. Please help. Thanks.
Monday, July 8th, 2013 AT 4:14 PM

5 Replies

Tiny
SEANGRANT00
  • MECHANIC
  • 334 POSTS
This could be a couple of things.

You could have overcharged the system. What pressure were you seeing after you added the R134?

This would cause the compressor to kick on and then off shortly afterwards.

Let me know

Sean
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Monday, July 8th, 2013 AT 4:53 PM
Tiny
CSGMAIL1
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Instructions on can said pressure should be between 45 to 55 lbs. When the ambient tempature was 85.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Monday, July 8th, 2013 AT 6:01 PM
Tiny
SEANGRANT00
  • MECHANIC
  • 334 POSTS
What size can did you add to the system? Did you purge any of the air before hand or use a vacuum to recover the refrigerant before?

The system should be around 28-30 with the compressor engaged, and 40 to 45 after it cycles off.

This also could be a couple other things, try this. Apply throttle to about 1500 rpm's and see if the clutch stays engaged.

Sean
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Monday, July 8th, 2013 AT 6:24 PM
Tiny
CSGMAIL1
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
I did not purge the system. I just assumed it was low and added. The can is 18 oz. But very little went in before I reached pressure. Tried raising the rpm, doesn't matter. Compressor just keeps kicking on and right back off after a few seconds.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Wednesday, July 10th, 2013 AT 12:41 PM
Tiny
CSGMAIL1
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Related question: How do I purge the system to just start fresh? Any help appreciated.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Wednesday, July 10th, 2013 AT 1:23 PM

Please login or register to post a reply.

Sponsored links