AC clutch not engaging

Tiny
1LINCOLN
  • MEMBER
  • LINCOLN LS
This car has been setting in my shop for a year without being started and I recently purchased it from the owner. Car had some body damage and needed a lower control arm on the left front. I have fixed all that but the AC clutch does not engage. I have checked the number one fuse and the number eight relay under the hood that pertain to the AC clutch, both seem fine. What can I check now? I do not just want to buy a new compressor and other components just to find out it is something else. I would certainly appreciate any assistance you can offer.
Monday, May 21st, 2007 AT 10:43 AM

5 Replies

Tiny
2CARPRO JACK
  • MECHANIC
  • 11,533 POSTS
First need to verify the system pressure is enough for the it to work. If so test for power at the compressor if none go back to the low pressure cycling switch and test for power at that, and if there is enough pressure if the switch is working (power on both sides).

This guide can help as well

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-air-conditioner-not-working-or-is-weak

Here is the AC wiring diagram so you can see how the system works.

Check out the diagrams (Below). Please let us know what happens.

Cheers
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Monday, May 21st, 2007 AT 11:14 AM
Tiny
1LINCOLN
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  • 3 POSTS
I checked the R-134A level with a kit from Walmart that had a canister with R-134A refrigerant and oil and a single gauge with hose that plugged into the low pressure side for recharging. I added a little, but according to that pressure gauge it was fine. I will test for power tonight and look at the switch. Is the cycling switch on the accumulator? Anyway I will try and find it.
Thanks.
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Monday, May 21st, 2007 AT 1:00 PM
Tiny
1LINCOLN
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No power at the compressor. So I am trying to locate the low pressure cycling switch. Can you give me an idea of where it is located?
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Monday, May 21st, 2007 AT 11:28 PM
Tiny
JON892
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Hi Lincoln1,
I know that this post is very old but what was the outcome of the AC? I have the same thing. Car sat up in carport for six months and then went to drive it. Battery was drained. Replaced battery everything perfect except for the AC. It has always worked perfect. Now the clutch does not engage. Fuses and relays are perfect. Fuse 1, and relay 08 test perfect.
What was the outcome of your AC?
Just wondering.

Jona
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Monday, February 2nd, 2015 AT 4:17 PM
Tiny
#FALCONS
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  • 1 POST
I had this problem it ended up being the AC compressor relay under the hood. FYI cost me $34.00 for the part.
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Tuesday, July 26th, 2016 AT 12:23 PM

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