I have a 94 Vigor and the A/C is not working this year. In doing some checks I have found that the compressor clutch is not engaging. With the engine off, but the key in the on position, when I push the A/C button, I do not hear, or see the compressor clutch engage. The aux fan on the radiator does engage and the A/C light on the dash lights. Also, I am able to spin the clutch with my hand; there is no resistance there at all.

Questions:

1) Should I hear the compressor clutch engage when the switch is turned on? If so, is there a connector I can check to verify that there is power going to the compressor clutch.

2) By the name on the fuse box, it states that the fuse is for the A/C compressor clutch relay. Where is the relay located?

3) What other checks can I perform on the system to help me narrow down the problem?

Any information would be greatly appreciated.

 

The clutch will not engage (or will turn off immediately after turning on) if there is insufficient refrigerant charge in the system. There is an expansion valve that shuts down the AC automatically under low pressure conditions to prevent permanent damage to the system. Sometimes these valves go bad, but, more commonly, the system just needs recharging. Nearly all car AC's will lose some refrigerant over time. You can take it somewhere to have it charged, but they will charge at least $100 and usually more if they decide to start replacing things and doing all kinds of tests. Go to wal mart or an auto store. They sell 12oz. cans of R134 refrigerant for about 10 bucks. You will also need to purchase a connector one time, but this is a good thing to keep around. Connect it as instructed and it usually fixes the problem. Once they start leaking, you may find that you have to repeat it each year, but it's not a big deal.