A/C on all the time?

[skeneguy]

Hi,
I've noticed on my Explorer that the air conditioning accumulator was covered in condensation even though the A/C wasn't on. It seems to me that the pump is energized all the time, regardless of the switch position. Any idea's?
It's a 95 XLT V6 Auto

 

[Mbrooks420]

The ac compressor runs in all settings except floor only. They did this to avoid siezed up pumps after a long disused winter.

 

[skeneguy]

Oh, thanks...good news, I was about to pull the fuse!
I'm new to Explorers!

 

[Mbrooks420]

Welcome to the site There is a ton of info here, and people who can answer just about any question you might have.

 

[Abom]

Ok, wait a minute, doesn't having the A/C compressor running all the time use more gas ? And rob the engine of power if you're trying to step on it ?

 

[skeneguy]

That's what I thought...however I'm just glad it's not broken!
Looking forward to making use of the accumulated mounds of knowledge here!!

 

[Abom]

That's what I thought...however I'm just glad it's not broken!
Looking forward to making use of the accumulated mounds of knowledge here!!

Definately, I've learned so much about my Ex from this site, it's awesome. I even nearly installed my tranny filter on wrong, then found the correct way from this site. If it weren't for the detailed pics, my tranny would be hooped pretty soon

I was also wondering why my compressor turns on and off every few minutes even though I'm not using A/C. Interesting to know.

 

[shamaal]

Hi,
I've noticed on my Explorer that the air conditioning accumulator was covered in condensation even though the A/C wasn't on. It seems to me that the pump is energized all the time, regardless of the switch position. Any idea's?
It's a 95 XLT V6 Auto

According to the drawings, the '95s A/C compressor will be enabled when the A/C switch is on or the defroster is on. It should be off otherwise. I've verified that on my '91. The presence of condensation on the accumulator generally means a very healthy charge.

If the A/C switch is not on (light off) and the slide switch is not in defrost, the compressor should not be on. If it is still running, turn the engine off and spin the inside of the compressor pulley by hand. It should turn freely and smoothly. If not the compressor clutch has frozen.

With the engine running, you should also be able to push the A/C switch in and out and have the compressor kick in and out. There was one fellow a month ago with a compressor that would turn on and not turn off due to a faulty compressor clutch that would not disengage.

For those with a meter, the voltage can be read on the accumulator pressure switch plug. +12 for A/C switch pushed in or slide switch in defrost.

Later models with climate control may be more exotic.

 

[shamaal]

Definately, I've learned so much about my Ex from this site, it's awesome. I even nearly installed my tranny filter on wrong, then found the correct way from this site. If it weren't for the detailed pics, my tranny would be hooped pretty soon

I was also wondering why my compressor turns on and off every few minutes even though I'm not using A/C. Interesting to know.

Somewhat the same advice as for skeneguy. If in defrost or the A/C switch is on the compressor pressure switch will be enabled. If it's hot outside, repeated cycling of the switch generally indicates a low charge when coupled with a decrease in cooled air.

 

[gijoecam]

According to the drawings, the '95s A/C compressor will be enabled when the A/C switch is on or the defroster is on. It should be off otherwise. I've verified that on my '91. The presence of condensation on the accumulator generally means a very healthy charge.

If the A/C switch is not on (light off) and the slide switch is not in defrost, the compressor should not be on. If it is still running, turn the engine off and spin the inside of the compressor pulley by hand. It should turn freely and smoothly. If not the compressor clutch has frozen.

With the engine running, you should also be able to push the A/C switch in and out and have the compressor kick in and out. There was one fellow a month ago with a compressor that would turn on and not turn off due to a faulty compressor clutch that would not disengage.

For those with a meter, the voltage can be read on the accumulator pressure switch plug. +12 for A/C switch pushed in or slide switch in defrost.

Later models with climate control may be more exotic.

That's accurate for the first-gens, but they changed the functionality for the second gens. There is no AC button on a second gen. First gen only. Many of the service manuals for the 95s are not accurate... too much cross-over between the first gens and the Aerostars.

As mentioned above, it will cycle as necessary when the system is set to anything but floor and off.

-Joe

 

[shamaal]

Makes sense, Haynes only covers the '91s to '99s and is hit or miss. I'll add it to the data base.

Thanks for the clarification.

 

[skeneguy]

My 95 has no A/C button, just an A/C position on the rotary switch. I checked the owners manual and it states that if the outside air temp is 50F (10C) or above the A/C is on for defrost or floor/defrost to dehumidify, but not for floor alone.
I'm glad I brought up the subject...good inputs