How to jump the A/C relay?

Tiny
BHAMDOC1973
  • MEMBER
  • 2016 CHEVROLET IMPALA
  • V6
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 130,000 MILES
I am trying to charge it because I think it's a bit low. High side when pressing with a screwdriver shows there is Freon. It was cooling low and now not at all. I want to make sure the compressor licks in and then I want to charge it but I cannot while the compressor is not running. Where is the relay and which pins do I jump for a little bit to get it going?
Thursday, September 7th, 2023 AT 3:24 PM

17 Replies

Tiny
BHAMDOC1973
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And I don't know if these numbers are accurate, this is with engine running, compressor off of course.
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Thursday, September 7th, 2023 AT 3:27 PM
Tiny
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Hi,

If the pressure readings in the pic are static pressures, that seems high. Keep in mind, that the pressures can be different based on ambient temperature when checked.

However, if the pic above shows static pressure, that is a bit high. If it is accurate, the system is overcharged. See pic 2 below for acceptable static pressures based on ambient temperatures.

As far as the relay, it is in the under-hood fuse box. Remove the relay and inspect it. Each of the four pins will have a number. The numbers are 85, 86, 87, and 30.

You need to locate pins 87 and 30 and where they connect in the box. Those are the two pins that will send power to the compressor (if power is available).

Pin 30 receives power from the compressor clutch 10 amp fuse. So, before jumping it, check that connector to see if there is power. It should be present at all times.

Keep in mind, based on the provided readings, the system may be over-charged. Pay attention to the pressure readings. You don't want a compressor to fail or a hose. Actually, you don't want anything to fail due to high pressure.

Let me know what you find. Also, here is a link you may find helpful for testing the relay and relay circuit:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-an-electrical-relay-and-wiring-control-circuit

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.
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Thursday, September 7th, 2023 AT 6:57 PM
Tiny
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Yes, I thought about that, but the compressor is not running, so the readings is high even though the compressor isn'tt running?
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Thursday, September 7th, 2023 AT 7:01 PM
Tiny
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Hi,

That is my concern. When I say static pressure, it refers to the system at rest long enough for the pressures to equalize. You're are high. If you noticed, above 100 degrees the list indicates 100 psi as expected. You are well above that. I just don't want you getting hurt if something let's go. What I would recommend is to evacuate the system and then recharge it.

Here is a link explaining what I mean:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/re-charge-an-air-conditioner-system

By any chance, did you try charging the system?

Joe
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Thursday, September 7th, 2023 AT 7:20 PM
Tiny
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Actually, the compressor turns fine. I took a lot of the Freon out until it dropped to 30, added some still not cold, took more out in case there is moisture, still nothing, got it up to 60 PSI still not cold.
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Friday, September 8th, 2023 AT 8:24 AM
Tiny
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Hi,

If the compressor is engaging, what are the high and low pressures when engaged? Also, what is the ambient temperature when checked?

Let me know. Also, have you checked to make sure there isn't an issue with the blend air door in the vehicle?

Let me know.

Joe
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Friday, September 8th, 2023 AT 6:02 PM
Tiny
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Ambient around 75-80, low was measure again after I had taken some Freon out, tried at 30 PSI, added to 40 nothing, to 50 nothing to 60 nothing sane level air temperature coming out of vents. Didn't measure high side. Didn't check blend door. How would I go about that if it is doing that to all vents? Where is it located?
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Friday, September 8th, 2023 AT 6:53 PM
Tiny
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Hi,

The high-pressure side will tell us if there is an issue with the compressor. As far as the blend air doors are concerned, that is a theory in the event the compressor is working. When it is running, do you notice any temp changes in the lines?

Let me know.

Joe
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Friday, September 8th, 2023 AT 10:10 PM
Tiny
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Both gauges open and then a bit after charging. The pipes are a bit cold. The vent air is not hot, it's cool, maybe 2-3/10. Fans running.
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Saturday, September 9th, 2023 AT 7:23 AM
Tiny
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Hi,

Are both pics with it off? If so, what is the pressure with the system running? Let me know. The pressures have equalized, but they are different readings. That is why I'm asking if pic 2 was with it running.

Let me know.

Take care,

joe
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Saturday, September 9th, 2023 AT 8:28 PM
Tiny
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Both running.
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Sunday, September 10th, 2023 AT 5:10 AM
Tiny
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First pic before opening the gauges, car running A/C on.
Second, same situation but gauges open.
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Sunday, September 10th, 2023 AT 1:11 PM
Tiny
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Hi,

Thanks for the information. Based on the readings, I suspect the compressor itself has failed. The low side pressure should never get that high and the high side doesn't change. Other than the compressor, the expansion valve could be plugged. Something is backing up pressure on the low side.

Have you replaced the expansion valve? If so, then my first suspect is the compressor. This can happen with a faulty compressor because the compressor is not creating enough suction to draw in refrigerant effectively.

Let me know your thoughts and questions.

Take care,

Joe
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Sunday, September 10th, 2023 AT 7:33 PM
Tiny
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I took it to a shop, and they also said the compressor is bad, which is what you suspected, but too high to replace at the shop $1,200, so I will get it and do it myself. Thanks for your help.
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Thursday, September 28th, 2023 AT 6:04 AM
Tiny
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Hi,

Thanks for the update. I just wish it was better news. If you plan to replace the compressor yourself, here is a link that explains in general how it's done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/replace-air-conditioner-compressor

If you look below, I attached the directions specific to your vehicle. Note: There are two different designs that were used. I picked the one that should be on your vehicle. If the compressor mount looks different, let me know.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.
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Thursday, September 28th, 2023 AT 8:19 PM
Tiny
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Replaced compressor and all good, thanks.
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Tuesday, October 3rd, 2023 AT 4:33 PM
Tiny
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Hi,

Thanks for the update. I'm glad to hear it's working properly again.

Feel free to come back anytime in the future.

Take care,

joe
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Tuesday, October 3rd, 2023 AT 7:27 PM

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