a/c compressor clutch circuit faulty?

[TorqueEffect]

Ok, I have yet to get the idler pulley stuff, and the system hasn't been pressure tested, or put under a vaccume.

But I would figure if there was no pressure on the a/c system, it would kick the clutch on regardless to try and build the pressure up.

But no, I hit the A/C button with the blower on, and the light comes on. But I hear no click of the a/c clutch, and I can spin the pulley, but the clutch doesn't move.
I have even tried it with the engine running, but nothing.
So to rule out the clutch being faulty, I jumped the clutch wire directly to the battery. Aside from some big bright sparks, the clutch clicked. So the clutch is fine.

I also thought the radiator fan ran all the time when the a/c was on? Again mine doesn't when the button is pushed.

I have already checked all the wiring, every single connector is hooked up.

EDIT:

Ok after digging a little more around here, I see that the compressor won't engage if the sensor doesn't pick up enough pressure in the system.

Well then how the hell are you supposed to charge a completely dry system?

[1chrisapple]

you put a can or two in and u manually jump the compressor wire to get it started so it has pressure then u plug wire back in and it will run.but u can also just jumper the pressure switch with a wire and it will come on to bc then the pressure switch is not in the loop. good luck I've only ever had to jump the compressor when charging on just a few cars most of time they will kick in on there own.

[Chobobulous]

In my experience with ac systems. It may not click on When you turn it on but as you are adding the freon to the low pressure side it then gains enough pressure to engage the clutch and Start circulating the fluid.

[TorqueEffect]

Alright, thanks for all the help.

My aspire a/c idler pulley and bracket is on its way.

Then I just need the vacuum pump from harbor freight, conversion kit, Manifold gauges, and some R134a then I will be set.

This whole a/c system is becoming quite pricey. But still WAAAAAAY cheaper then taking it to a shop.

[Ape]

Clutch wont engage with low pressure. Do some digging though and find out exactly how much R134a you need in your system. To much and off course you have to high of pressures, but your A/C wont work properly. But if your pressures are good but still having problems check your pressure sensors. If you have a multimeter just Ohm them out. Also check to see if the little cans of R134a you buy at the store have oil in them. Looking for PAG 100 or some sort. Your system needs some or else your compressor wont work for ever like your Festy.

And, one more thing. If you or anyone else replaces anything in the A/C system and "opens" the system. Aka new expansion valve, new O-rings etc.. Replace your Receiver - Dryer. If you don't there is a good chance it will let loose and you will have a clogged system with what look like bean bag guts in your expansion valve and you will have to flush the lines which is a big pain..


Here's a good chart to go off of when charging your system. Keep this in my wallet all the time
Temp-pressure-chart-33776F.jpg

[TorqueEffect]

Alright, I will look into getting a new receiver/drier. I was going to keep the old one on there, I didn't know they became junk once open to the air.

Edit: Woo! Factory a/c parts are way cheaper!

Factory drier is like $10 on Rockauto, while the Dealer is $42.

I noticed it is just a cylinder.

How do you go about installing it? Does the fittings just come off the old one, and fit right into the new one?

[Ape]

Just reuse the old fittings but install new O-rings and you'll be set!