A/c clutch going bad?

[floridaoranges]

I have a 2002 4.0 and sometimes when I'm driving the a/c will start blowing hot, if I pull over and tap the clutch with a screwdriver it will start working again. it usually happens when I accelerate to pass someone and for some reason if I crack my window it sometimes causes it to come back on. At night or when its colder it always blows cold.

So I'm thinking its the clutch? or somebody told me it could be the pressure switch. Its done this since I've owned the truck, a little over a year.

 

[srteach]

It could be low R12 (R134a), it could be low output of the alternator. Check the output of the alternator (14.1V), then have AC serviced.

 

[Earl43P]

That does sound like you have a worn compressor clutch.
The air gap is too great for the electromagnet to overcome.

You used to be able to shim Ford compressor clutches, but I don't know if that is still the case.

If it were the WOT relay (stuck) or the high pressure switch, tapping on the clutch would not help it.

Click this link: http://www.therangerstation.com/forums/showthread.php?t=45199

Welcome to The Ranger Station!

 

[floridaoranges]

yeah that seems to have fixed it thanks for the info.

It was a lot harder than just 'take it off' though lol. Everything was stuck on. I thought I was going to have to find a small puller.

 

[Steeda04SVT]

Good info, Might have to do the same soon.

 

[floridaoranges]

actually my relay was going bad.