1992 Ford Ranger AC Not Cold

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92FORDRANGERSTX
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  • 2 POSTS
I own a 1992 Ford Ranger STX with 4.0L V-6 complete with AC and it does not work. has 189+K miles on it.

Some things I've been able to find out and/or observe

One, I thought it might be a simple electrical issue, fuse in the fuse box is fine, AC switch, part of the fan switch activates the LED indicator on the heater control panel. Also, the temp lever does not fully go to the left, cold side but I get plenty of heat when pushed all the way to the right however.

Air is not cold, fan operates just fine however in the engine compartment, the clutch does not engage, nor click so does not rotate at all. Lines out the back of the compressor do not get cold at all, rather get warm from the heat of the engine. There is no line viewer to see if any freon is flowing through or not.

I purchased this truck back in February and it was not working then. Someone said it might just be empty but even they weren't sure.

I thought the compressor would kick in no matter what the level of freon and this one does not.

So my question is, is this a mechanical, ie, compressor issue or is it something simple such as empty of coolant. Also, this system originally used R-12 coolant, will anything need to be done to convert to 134-A?

Thanks.
May 5, 2006 at 11:27 AM
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LOSONE
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 1,616 POSTS
You are low on freon. Go to a parts store and buy a 143 conversion kit also Wal-Mart carried them for about $40.00. Re- add a can charge the system and insure you add a can of dye!
May 6, 2006 at 3:06 AM
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92FORDRANGERSTX
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THanks, that was what I'd hoped it would be, a simple recharge is all. Not seeing the compressor not kick in was new to me so hoped it wasn't that.

I'll give the recharge a try Thanks.
May 6, 2006 at 3:20 AM

Suggested Repair

The expert said the system is low on refrigerant. Use an R-134a conversion kit, recharge the system, and add a can of dye.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 1992 Ford Ranger said the AC does not cool. The fan and control light work, but the compressor clutch does not engage and the lines stay warm. The system originally used R-12. The expert said it was low on refrigerant and recommended a conversion kit, a recharge, and dye.

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