AC Clutch not staying engaged

[realeyes]

Hey folks,

98 3.0 v-6 5 speed.....Just fired up the AC for the first time this year and only hot air. Popped the hood and noticed that the AC clutch will click on, spin for a second or 2, then click off...and every 15 seconds or so repeats this. AC was fine last time I used it last summer. Does anyone have an idea of what may be the cause, and therefore cheaper and easier fix for me. I know that it is usually from either, low pressure on the freon, bad wiring or relay, or a shot compressor/clutch. Wanted to get an opinion so maybe I can test myself before I take it in and drop cash that I don't have. A side note, i have been having some minor electrical issues lately that may or may not be related. Dome light/door ajar light stays on occasionally, relay clicking in dash when I hit bottom of driver side window down (this may be normal, but i have never noticed before recently) Any ideas? Thanks in advance, I always get great help from this forum.

 

[Earl43P]

Dome light: Search "door ajar".

AC needs refrigerant. Probably have a small leak.


Welcome to TRS, you have a PM.

 

[MAKG]

With very asymmetrical cycle times like that, I'd suspect the orifice tube is blocked. But the way to tell is to put gauges on it, especially the high side.

NEVER "top off" refrigerant, as it can be very dangerous to overcharge it like that.