A/C Problem - Cold driving/Warm Idle

[Jeff13]

I have a 2005 Explorer XLT 4x2 V6 that didnt have AC for over a year because I was too lazy to replace a broken compressor so I just bypassed it with a shorter belt. I recently had is evacuated and replaced the compressor (with a used one that is under warranty so I can replace it if needed but would rather not), the accumulator, orifice tube.

The air blows nice and cold with driving but when stopped (in gear or in park) it starts to warm up. I looked and the clutch is not spinning. I jumpered the relay and the clutch starts. Unjmper and it stops. I checked the low pressure with one of those cheap gauges that goes on the cans while it was spinning and the pressure looks fine.

Is this a faulty compressor and/or clutch. Is there anything else to look at that would fix this problem? If I HAVE to replace the compressor again do I also have to get another new accumulator?

Thanks!

 

[Donystoy]

Did you put in the exact charge of refrigerant into the evacuated system after replacing components? The exact refrigerant charge of 134a should be under hood on label behind the grill. Not sure why the clutch stops spinning when the engine is at idle but something is obviously interrupting the electrical circuit to the clutch. Something as simple as lower than normal charging voltage on these vehicles can do strange things so I would start there. From what you have said I cannot see any problems with the mechanical components you installed. Even with a low refrigerant charge it would be cycling on and off with even shorter cycles at higher rpm's.

 

[FordFool2]

The compressor is protected from low suction and also high discharge pressures. Sounds as if you have evidence the suction side looks good. A high discharge pressure is caused by lack of cooling. Make sure that you condenser (heat exchanger in front of your radiator) is clean of bugs and dirt. Also confirm your fan shroud is installed so that the engine fan can pull the air through the condenser at low speed/idle.