A/C compressor clutch not engaging all the time

[cowboyupamrka]

This isn't a motor problem but wasn't sure where else to post.

My a/c compressor clutch is not engaging all the time. Sometimes it will, sometimes it won't. I have changed out the compressor, the clutch, the low pressure side switch, checked the high pressure side switch and still doesn't work. Anyone had similar problems or know of a fix. It is hot and I would like to have the a/c back full time.

Started out as the air was only cold while driving and if I stopped it got warm again.

[ricochetbuell]

have you checked the tolerance on the "air gap" of the clutch?

[117mattm]

Had a similar problem with a friend of mines truck, if you will pull the front off of the compressor, inside the clutch plate is a small washer. take it out, put the clutch plate back on and turn the a/c on make sure it doesn't scrub and had enough clearance. if it does you will have to grind the washer down a little. It fixed his truck.

[cowboyupamrka]

How do I check the "air gap" cause I have not. I am assuming you both are probably talking of the same thing? If so then I will check it in the mornig. Just seems strange cause my old compressor was having similar issues but worked great up until this point.

[ricochetbuell]

take some feeler gauges and measure between the clutch assembly and the pully on the compressor with the engine and key off. the acceptable tolerance varies between who you ask but .010 to .030 seems to be the normal. if it is anymore than this the clutch could just barely be engaging and letting go at times causeing hot air. you can take the clutch assembly off and remove a shim or grind the shim down to get the necassary gap. as long as the clutch will disengage when the switch is set to off it should be ok.

[ProOnThaSnow]

My dad's was doing the same thing. Last week he pulled a washer out and it works like achamp now.

[willie59]

Originally Posted by cowboyupamrka

Just seems strange cause my old compressor was having similar issues but worked great up until this point.

Why did you change the old compressor? Did it crap out?

[southern7.3]

Mine was doing this and it was the pig tail on top of the low pressure switch, it was loose. You can push it to one side or the other and it will engage the clutch.

Is there supposed to be a bolt in the center of the clutch? Looks like there was one at one time but damned if its still there.

Regardless it is working so im not complaining.

One more question can you just but a new clutch?

[Zen]

Anyone have a picture for the newb?

Thanks

[tturbonegro]

Same problem here...played with the plug and it worked...but then blows hot again after awhile...