Air Conditioner Compressor

[doojs]

The compressor is getting electrical power. The pully wheel starts to turn and then stops after a second. Then after like three seconds it starts again and after a second it stops and on and on like this. Obviously, I am not getting any cold air. Does the compressor have a clutch that needs repairing or does the compressor need to be replaced. Thanks in advance

 

[fixt]

Not enough info to say.
You need pressure readings from a gauge set with actual numbers, not one of the pitiful red/green range low pressure only things.

If the compressor tries to start then stops, it is probably freon low pressure cutoff working as it should. If so, the question arises as to why it is low.
Normal leakage takes a while, while a larger leak would need repair after locating.

If you want to go cheap, you might try adding freon first with the engine idling to see if that works. Don't use that stop leak crap. A shop won't touch it after that with their expensive machines.
I'd caution without proper diagnosis there is the risk of additional damage due to lack of oil in the system.

One of the kits to add freon might work, I don't know as I have never used one.

edit: If pressure is very low on checking with a gauge set, ideally the system would be evacuated and checked to see if it holds and serviced/repaired as needed with things like a new orifice and accumulator/reciever. Some fairly specialized tools are needed to accomplish this and should be performed by a qualified shop (dependent on your level of experience).

 

[doojs]

You have been most helpful. Thank you and thank you. I am going to try the Freon thing first. Thanks

 

[doojs]

Okay, so I bought some freon. Put the air conditionar on max with car running. And connected the can of Freon. I pulled the trigger and kept pulling the trigger and the can would not empty. It would not even start to empty. Does this help diagnose the problem? Are we talking a new compressor?

 

[fixt]

You really seem to want the expense of a new compressor and associated installation without addressing basic readings. Its not a simple remove and bolt on job.

I do not know without system pressure readings.
To me at least, that is the first thing to know and without those numbers I can only offer limited speculation from a remote distance.
If the compressor does not initially run it takes quite a while for gas to go in with pressures fluctuating to low as compressor starts and then stops.
If the can got cold, you had some gas flow into the system. You can help it along by setting it in a pan of warm water. The can won't discharge lower than system pressure of course. DO NOT turn the can upside down while hooked up the LP fitting with engine running and compressor engaged.
I don't remember exactly, the system takes something like 23 or 26 ozs I think. Its on an under hood sticker for your vehicle.
Steady state low pressure with compressor running engaged is around 30-35psi, somewhere around that. Compressor trip at about 23 and restart at about 27 I think.

At this point I would suggest a competent shop to assist. Maybe $70 or so including freon or a friend familiar with the stuff. Its almost impossible to do long distance not your familiarity (or lack of ) with the equipment and repairs. Sorry I can't be of more help at this distance.