Any advice on how to bypass a/c from turning on during heat modes?

[Flounder]

I have a 96 2.3l , I would prefer that the a/c compressor does not engage when using heat modes. Only want a/c when i select it. Any fix for this? from the schematic it looks like selector switch surgery.
Thanks.

 

[bobbywalter]

Charge it.

 

[Flounder]

Charge what? Freon? I think you misunderstood my question. There is no problem with the function, a/c blows cold and everything works as it should. Looking to modify the system so my a/c compressor does not turn on when using heat modes.

 

[fastpakr]

Why? It's not an accident that it was engineered that way.

 

[Flounder]

I go over an 8500ft pass regularly. I often need to use heat modes to stay warm. The pedal is to the metal all the way up to the top just to try and maintain 60 mph and it is quite a drop in power when the compressor clicks on at that altitude. My non a/c 93 ranger defrosted just fine.

 

[RonD]

In a 1996 you would need to install a separate switch in the cab to disable AC

In 1996 AC is only activated when AC or DEFROST is selected, i.e. Max AC, Normal AC, Floor/Defrost or Defrost

The AC is used to DRY the air being blown on the windshield to clear it of "fog" faster/better

On the back of the Climate control there will be a Purple wire, that's what activates the AC system, put a switch on it, 15amp switch
OR
Pull fuse 18 in cab fuse box, 15amp, that will deactivate AC for the winter, I think AC is the only system on this fuse

 

[Flounder]

Thanks Ron, That sounds simple enough. Really appreciate it. Cheers!

 

[gaz]

Flounder,

What is this pass grade (°) that you must floor it to maintain 60 mph. Also what size tires and which axle gears in this set up.

Perhaps swapping to an electric fan would suit your situation better. These engines really give up a lot to the EViL crank shaft driven fan and clutch. I have driven a few passes with electric only. The first time I turned on the fan on approach but seemed unnecessary. The next time, I did not need a fan unless their was slow traffic.

 

[Flounder]

stock everything. not sure of the grade.

 

[Flounder]

Flounder,

What is this pass grade (°) that you must floor it to maintain 60 mph. Also what size tires and which axle gears in this set up.

Perhaps swapping to an electric fan would suit your situation better. These engines really give up a lot to the EViL crank shaft driven fan and clutch. I have driven a few passes with electric only. The first time I turned on the fan on approach but seemed unnecessary. The next time, I did not need a fan unless their was slow traffic.

Hey Gaz, Are you saying that the stock clutch fans don't do a very good job of shutting down at speed or cooler temps?

 

[bobbywalter]

Hey Gaz, Are you saying that the stock clutch fans don't do a very good job of shutting down at speed or cooler temps?

You can possibly benefit from both deleting the fan and unplugging the ac.

And some rain x if it's starts fogging.

 

[sgtsandman]

Hey Gaz, Are you saying that the stock clutch fans don't do a very good job of shutting down at speed or cooler temps?

Clutch fans are always spinning and generate parasitic drag. I don’t think they ever get to full free wheeling.

 

[Flounder]

Thanks everyone for the input. I put a switch on the purple wire as per Ron's suggestion , exactly what I was hoping to achieve. Works great!

 

[Blmpkn]

My 2010 2.3 was the only vehicle I had ever driven that you could really feel the power loss from having to turn the compressor. It was an unbelievable difference.

I hate the heat and humidity more than almost anything, but the power sap was so awful that after standing working outside for 8 hours in 80 degree weather with 80 percent humidity... id wait the 40 minute commute and just enjoy the ac stuck in the window at home.

 

[19Walt93]

I have a 96 2.3l , I would prefer that the a/c compressor does not engage when using heat modes. Only want a/c when i select it. Any fix for this? from the schematic it looks like selector switch surgery.
Thanks.

I've wired switches inline on a couple of vehicles so I could have outside air come through the defroster ducts in the summer without the compressor running. One thing to keep in mind though- in the dark past when the a/c only ran when it was deliberately engaged, compressors could seize up from not being engaged all winter. The a/c helps the defroster by dehumidifying the air, operating the compressor periodically in the off season helps keep your cash from withering. Disable it for long periods at risk of expensive repairs.