A/C install question

[fastivaca]

Hello all,

I've just completed the install of all the bits, hoses, compressors, belts etc. I have a 5 speed and the wiring harness is from an automatic. Is this going to pose any problems? From what I can see in the wiring diagrams the extra "stuff" is for the condensor fan, which I haven't installed.

One thing I'm a little concerned about is that I'm running a B6 with the B6 two plug ECU. Is this going to give any trouble?

At the moment the A/C won't turn on. I ran out of time to check things out tonight but I'm going to check the connections at the switch. I just discovered that I don't have plug C158 connected so that will probably help too.

Your help is greatly appreciated.

Cheers

[fastivaca]

OK, I've checked the install and everything that is supposed to be plugged in is plugged in (i'm going to double check the relays later tonight). The inline fuse has been checked and replaced anyway and the fuses in the fuse panel are good. I've also confirmed that the ground for the wiring harness is good.

Now here's the problem... when I push the A/C button nothing happens. The compressor clutch doesn't engage nor does the light in the switch come on.

1. Am I correct in assuming that the system has to be running in order to charge it up? I don't want to fill the system only to have to empty it again right away.

2. Will the system operate at all with no refrigerant?

3. What should I be checking first?

A couple of reminders... this is a factory system, I have the B6 in with the B6 2 plug ECU & installation has been according to the manual and posts on this forum.

Thanks again for any and all suggetions.

[geezerstiva]

try to jump power to the compressor clutch and see if it engages. the system has to be running if you are charging it with guages and cans of refrigerant. i'm not sure if festivas had a low pressure switch, but your a/c light should still come on i would think. there may be something on the condenser fan that power needs to go through in order for the system to work. just suggestions. good luck!

[yblock]

the bulb's burn out. the low pressure switch won't let the clutch engage until you get enough refrigerant in to satisfy the switch. you can unplug the connector on the pressure switch an jumper it with a wire. unplug the wire going to the clutch an stick a test light to it an see if you can get it to light.

[fastivaca]

Thanks for the replies. I'll look into that in the next day or so.

[fastivaca]

What's the best way to get a vacuum in the system in order to recharge it? Is it even necessary to do so?

I've had one suggestion that I just jump the switch and get the compressor running and then recharge.

Any and all help welcome.

Thanks

[25Horseplay]

The compressor won't run without a charge. DO NOT try to jump it to run it might burn up the seals.

[geezerstiva]

it is a MUST to pull a vacuum on the system before you charge it. use a guage set, attach the high and low side lines, then attach a vacuum pump to the yellow hose in the middle. after it pulls the system down to about 29 in Hg, leave it in a vacuum for at least 30 minutes. if it loses vacuum quickly (2-3 in Hg in 5 minutes), you have a leak in the system. pulling a vacuum gets the moisture out of the system and also makes it easier to charge it back up because when you put the refrigerant on the system with a vacuum on it, it pulls the refrigerant into the system.