My a/c blows cold, but I think the compressor is cycling too much. The compressor comes on for about 6 seconds then off for about 8 seconds. Any ideas about what might be going on or is this normal? Seems like last year it pretty much stayed engaged most of the time when on.
A/C blows cold but compressor seems to cycle a lot
- Thread starter f2502011
- Start date
Disclaimer: Links on this page pointing to Amazon, eBay and other sites may include affiliate code. If you click them and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission.
Rons beast
Active member
- Joined
- Dec 13, 2007
- Messages
- 1,537
- Reaction score
- 15
Hey f,
Frequent cycling is a sign of a low Freon charge. Often when the system is left unused during the winters Freon will seep out of the compressor seal. When it is brought into use again during warmer weather the charge is adequate enough to provide cool air when the ambient temperatures are not too high. (70s and low 80s).
The low charge does however signal the low pressure cycling switch to open and disengage the compressor. With the compressor disengaged the pressure in the system equalizes between the high and low side. The pressure then is adequate enough to close the LPCS, and the compressor engages. This continues as the compressor sucks Freon into the low side. It passes the expansion valve. It boils, becomes a low pressure gas and when not sufficient enough to maintain the required low side pressure the LPCS opens, disengaging the compressor...the cycle continues.
Here in Florida many places will check for leaks for free or a minimum charge. Some states have a policy that makes it illegal to add Freon to a system known to have a leak. (don't know where you are.)
There are some good DIY Freon recharge kits now available at most part store and Big Box stores. Just remember in AC...enough is good...more isn't better...Don't overcharge!
Good Luck
Frequent cycling is a sign of a low Freon charge. Often when the system is left unused during the winters Freon will seep out of the compressor seal. When it is brought into use again during warmer weather the charge is adequate enough to provide cool air when the ambient temperatures are not too high. (70s and low 80s).
The low charge does however signal the low pressure cycling switch to open and disengage the compressor. With the compressor disengaged the pressure in the system equalizes between the high and low side. The pressure then is adequate enough to close the LPCS, and the compressor engages. This continues as the compressor sucks Freon into the low side. It passes the expansion valve. It boils, becomes a low pressure gas and when not sufficient enough to maintain the required low side pressure the LPCS opens, disengaging the compressor...the cycle continues.
Here in Florida many places will check for leaks for free or a minimum charge. Some states have a policy that makes it illegal to add Freon to a system known to have a leak. (don't know where you are.)
There are some good DIY Freon recharge kits now available at most part store and Big Box stores. Just remember in AC...enough is good...more isn't better...Don't overcharge!
Good Luck
yo,
Gauges to check pressures and level are needed.
see this in 1996 Bronco/F-Series
Workshop Manual (PARTIAL by Ford via http://www.diesel-dave.com/vehic/manual/stj/stjleft.htm
Section 12-00: Climate Control System, Service
SERVICE PROCEDURES
Refrigerant System Tests
Refrigerant System Pressure and Cycle Timing Evaluation Chart for A/C Evaporator Core Orifice Cycling Systems
NOTE: Normal system conditional requirements must be maintained to properly evaluate refrigerant system pressures. Refer to charts applicable to system under test
http://www.diesel-dave.com/vehic/manual/stj/stjc0025.htm#extract_1261
TSB 98-12-08
http://www.tccoa.com/articles/mn12-techinfo/tsb/TW1208.pdf
Gauges to check pressures and level are needed.
see this in 1996 Bronco/F-Series
Workshop Manual (PARTIAL by Ford via http://www.diesel-dave.com/vehic/manual/stj/stjleft.htm
Section 12-00: Climate Control System, Service
SERVICE PROCEDURES
Refrigerant System Tests
Refrigerant System Pressure and Cycle Timing Evaluation Chart for A/C Evaporator Core Orifice Cycling Systems
NOTE: Normal system conditional requirements must be maintained to properly evaluate refrigerant system pressures. Refer to charts applicable to system under test
http://www.diesel-dave.com/vehic/manual/stj/stjc0025.htm#extract_1261
TSB 98-12-08
http://www.tccoa.com/articles/mn12-techinfo/tsb/TW1208.pdf
Last edited by a moderator:
Jgrden
New member
I just purchased a 1985 XLT ad wanted o charge the A/C. Failed because it has not been retrofitted for 134. But, in all my studies, low freon causes the clutch to cycle on and off.
Just my humble, uneducated two cents.
Just my humble, uneducated two cents.
