Topic: Compressor Check
in Forum: C3 Cooling and Heating Systems
Already a Member?
Click Here to Login
Not yet a Member?
Click Here to Register for Free!
Is there a quick way to check my AC compressor to see if the clutch is engaging and the compressor working?
|IMG|/member_uploads/6601_6700/6620/Vette018.JPG|/IMG|
SPONSOR AD:: (Our Sponsors help support C3VR)
Lifetime MemberModerator
Duncanville, TX - USA
Joined: 11/8/2003
Posts: 20214
Vette(s): #1-1974 L-48 4spd Cp Med Red Metallic/Black deluxe int w/AC/tilt/tele./p/w-p/b/
Am-Fm/map light National/Regional/Chapter NCRS "Top Flight"
#2-1985 Bright Red/Carmine Cp.L-98/auto
Member: NCRS, NCRS Texas, Corvette Legends of Texas
You can "hot-wire" the clutch to see if the magnet will pull the clutch in. The compressor has two terminals on it. Jump 12v to one of them, and ground the other.(it doesn't matter which way, as it is not "polarity specific"; just be sure to unplug the connector first). You should hear and see the clutch engage to the pully. Or... with the engine running, turn the A/C on, and see if the clutch is turning with the pully or not. This won't work if the system is empty, or there is some other 'lectrical troubles.
The hot-wire test will confirm the ability of the clutch to engage only. It will not confirm if the compressor is good, unless you hear some really nasty noises, and then you've confirmed the compressor is ill. Don't run the compressor like this for very long if you don't know if it's got a charge(freon & oil), or you could damage the comp.
The hot-wire test will confirm the ability of the clutch to engage only. It will not confirm if the compressor is good, unless you hear some really nasty noises, and then you've confirmed the compressor is ill. Don't run the compressor like this for very long if you don't know if it's got a charge(freon & oil), or you could damage the comp.
Joel Adams
C3VR Lifetime Member #56 
My Link 
(click for Texas-sized view!) NCRS
"Money can't buy happiness -- but somehow it's more comforting to cry in a CORVETTE than in a Kia"
in Forum: C3 Cooling and Heating Systems
SPONSOR AD: (Our Sponsors help support C3VR)