a/c compressor question

[fsteyer]

Hi ... my a/c stopped cooling. When I look at the compressor the clutch doesn't engage. I don't even hear the click to trigger it. Can I power the compressor at its connector directly from the battery just to isolate if its the compressor or controller?

Thanks

 

[Kirby]

The most likely problem is that it is low on refrigerant. Almost all A/C systems have a pressure switch in the system. If there is not enough refrigerant pressure on the low pressure side, the clutch will not engage. This is to prevent damage to the compressor, since freon also acts as a lubricant.

You could locate and connect the clutch wires directly to 12v to test the clutch, but personally I would do this only after refering to a wiring diagram.

 

[Big Daddy]

Does the dryer on a BMW have a view window that you can look into and see if there are bubbles in the refrigerant? If so turn the system on and look into the dryer window, if you see bubbles your low on the refrigerant. If BMW's no not have this feature than I'll be quite!

 

[fsteyer]

thanks ... no window to check levels.

 

[Big Daddy]

Kind of thought so, I am too old school! Take Kirby's advice than he is a wizard...