AC problem - Ford Explorer Ranger Enthusiasts "Serious Explorations"®

pug fugly · 07-11-2006, 08:51 AM

OK, here's the deal -- my AC is not cold and the compressor doesn't engage. I tried to add some 134 to it from one of those autozone cans with the pressure gauge on it. When I attach the fitting, it reads low pressure; but as soon as I give the trigger the slightest squeeze, it jumps to too-high pressure. None of the AC lines get cold at all and as soon as I remove the fitting, it seems that bit of 134 I put in comes out the AC fitting. Is the fitting clogged or stuck shut?

shamaal · 07-12-2006, 08:39 PM

We'll skip the lecture on the accuracy regarding these types of fillers, I've never used them, see the stickies.

We'll assume a working system with no refrigerant, leaks fixed
When you connect the hose to the LP port (on the accumulator), squeezing the trigger will allow can pressure to read on the gauge, this will be high depending on the temp. What should happen next is the compressor will kick on, it will make a burbling sound. The compressor will draw some refrigerant out of the can, lower the pressure and kick off. The pressure will build up and the cycle will repeat. The 94 vehicle refrigerant capacity is 2.25 lb.

If the compressor does not kick on, the pressure switch may be bad. This is the switch with the wires coming out of it below the LP port. Remove the connector and jumper with a paper clip. The compressor should come. Do not exceed three seconds. Running the compressor without refrigerant and the oil it contains will damage it.

If the compressor still does not come on, most likely problem is a bad compressor clutch. Wiring problems are also possible.

The fittings are known for minor leaks, this is the reason the caps must be kept on when not in use.

Standard caution applies when working around moving parts and wear goggles.

Hope this helps. Ask questions if not clear

pug fugly · 07-13-2006, 08:44 AM

thanks, I will definately test the pressure switch.

pug fugly · 07-16-2006, 07:28 PM

I would like to thank you again shamaal. I unplugged the pressure switch and jumped the connector, and viola, the compressor kicked in. I replaced the switch and the compressor began to short cycle. After a recharge -- cold air!!! I did have to trash the cheapo refrigerant can with the gauge on it; I couldn't get it to work correctly.

07-11-2006, 08:51 AM	#1
pug fugly Wannabe Elite Explorer Johnson City, TN '94 Eddie Bauer Join Date: Jul 2004 Posts: 14 Vehicle Specs	AC problem OK, here's the deal -- my AC is not cold and the compressor doesn't engage. I tried to add some 134 to it from one of those autozone cans with the pressure gauge on it. When I attach the fitting, it reads low pressure; but as soon as I give the trigger the slightest squeeze, it jumps to too-high pressure. None of the AC lines get cold at all and as soon as I remove the fitting, it seems that bit of 134 I put in comes out the AC fitting. Is the fitting clogged or stuck shut?

07-16-2006, 07:28 PM	#4
pug fugly Wannabe Elite Explorer Johnson City, TN '94 Eddie Bauer Join Date: Jul 2004 Posts: 14 Vehicle Specs	Problem Solved! I would like to thank you again shamaal. I unplugged the pressure switch and jumped the connector, and viola, the compressor kicked in. I replaced the switch and the compressor began to short cycle. After a recharge -- cold air!!! I did have to trash the cheapo refrigerant can with the gauge on it; I couldn't get it to work correctly.

07-12-2006, 08:39 PM	#2
shamaal Wannabe Elite Explorer Friensdwood, Texas 91 Mazda Navajo Join Date: Apr 2005 Posts: 1,307 Vehicle Specs	We'll skip the lecture on the accuracy regarding these types of fillers, I've never used them, see the stickies. We'll assume a working system with no refrigerant, leaks fixed When you connect the hose to the LP port (on the accumulator), squeezing the trigger will allow can pressure to read on the gauge, this will be high depending on the temp. What should happen next is the compressor will kick on, it will make a burbling sound. The compressor will draw some refrigerant out of the can, lower the pressure and kick off. The pressure will build up and the cycle will repeat. The 94 vehicle refrigerant capacity is 2.25 lb. If the compressor does not kick on, the pressure switch may be bad. This is the switch with the wires coming out of it below the LP port. Remove the connector and jumper with a paper clip. The compressor should come. Do not exceed three seconds. Running the compressor without refrigerant and the oil it contains will damage it. If the compressor still does not come on, most likely problem is a bad compressor clutch. Wiring problems are also possible. The fittings are known for minor leaks, this is the reason the caps must be kept on when not in use. Standard caution applies when working around moving parts and wear goggles. Hope this helps. Ask questions if not clear

07-13-2006, 08:44 AM	#3
pug fugly Wannabe Elite Explorer Johnson City, TN '94 Eddie Bauer Join Date: Jul 2004 Posts: 14 Vehicle Specs	thanks, I will definately test the pressure switch.