A/C Issues STILL ONGOING

Gdetrailer wrote:
This is a common problem and often misdiagnosed as low coolant.

The symptoms you describe are typical of a worn A/C clutch (NOT FAN CLUTCH).

Someone else had mentioned this but I will elaborate a little on this..

Simply put, the A/C clutch works by using a electro magnet to create a magnetic field. This field "pulls" or draws the clutch together. When this happens the compressor shaft turns with the pulley.

In order to reliably pull or draw the clutch together there is a MAX distance allowed. Typically the clutch material wears down to the point the gap enlarges past the point of max distance.

Not all is lost, the clutch gap MAY be restorable. There may be a set of "shims" that can be removed.

Worst case is the clutch simply needs replaced...

Please take a look at the link below, although it is about repairing a Ford A/C clutch you will most likely find this info of great help..

SPRINGERPOP A/C AIR GAP REPAIR

First thing to do is MEASURE the AIR GAP of the clutch instead of reaching for a can of freon...

If air gap is correct then you need to trouble shoot the pressure switches, there can be several of these, one placed on the high pressure line and one on the low pressure line.

Additionally a clog in the system can cause issues but that SHOULD HAVE BEEN DETECTED if the A/C repairman used a set of gauges..

I had a gap problem on my Dakota (Sanden compressor). It would work great some times then not at all. When I watched under the hood when the AC was engaged, the clutch would shutter slightly but not engage and turn. With the AC on I bumped the end of the clutch with a broom handle and it grabbed and stuck. When I looked into it further I found a severely worn clutch (which I think was from excessive cycling on defrost during the winter when it was low on charge). I was able to pull a shim washer out and close the gap back down. It ran perfectly for many years after that.