A/C compressor starts and then turns off?

2001 CHEVROLET 2500
200,000 MILES • 6.0L • V8
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DANO1458*
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
I rebuilt my A/C system. Replaced the following, compressor, orifice tube, accumulator, evaporator, low pressure switch, and high-pressure switch. I charged the system fully with low side reading at 32 and high side at 200 with ambient temperature at 98. My problem now is the compressor will cycle on and stay off for a while and then will cycle on for a few minutes and then turns off.
Apr 22, 2025 at 8:13 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 110,194 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Hi,

It sounds like it is low on freon. At 95°F, the low side should be between 50 and 55psi and the high side should be between 275 and 300 PSI. Since both are low, I suspect the freon is low.

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

Try this and let us know what you find.

Take care,

Joe
Apr 22, 2025 at 8:32 PM
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