The AC on my 88 SE worked fine when I stopped using it last autumn. When I went to use it this year, the compressor wouldn't kick in. I checked the circuit breaker in the fuse box - it wasn't popped. Everything else in the Logicon works fine. Any ideas? Thanks in advance.

 

A/C compressors have a safety valve that won't let it egage if the freon level gets too low. Have you checked to see if there is freon still in it?

 

Most systems have a switch to prevent the compressor from engaging if the freon is low. Best way to check is to put gauges on the system. You can "jump" the switch and see if the compressor will kick in. Don't let it run for long because the only lubrication is the oil that circulates with the freon.

 

It's probably the pressure switch (pressure in system is too low).

Todd

 

It’s a bit late now, but here’s some advice fore the future (and for others). If the compressor isn’t run for a long time, the oil in the seals dries up and the gas escapes. Low gas means low pressure and the system won’t run, as mentioned above. This is probably what has happened to you. To prevent this you should run your A/C periodically during the winter to keep the seals lubed. Most cars’ owner’s manuals recommend about ten minutes use once a month.

 

You are going to be needing this stuff:
http://autorefrigerants.com/co00030.htm

 

take it off

 

Where in NJ are you located?

 

Turbonut - I'm in Princeton, near the university.
Thanks to everyone for the advice. Anyone know where the pressure switch is? I'd like to jump it and see if the compressor kicks in. Thanks again!

 

It's up front - near the accumulator (sight glass). don't jump it for long or could loose the compressor.

 

The reason I'm asking-I live in Stockton @ 20 minutes away. I loaned my gauges out, but have a couple 30lb containers of R-12. If I can get my gauges back I'll help you out...No charge.
Follow the A/C lines to firewall. Hopefully you'll see an electrical connection on one of the lines. Pull the connector off and place a jumper in the cap.
I'll need to look at the factory manual when I get home from work to see actual location. I'd look at my car, but it's at KD.
You can go online and search manual to find info also.

 

On a 88, go to the front of the radiator. Look for the drier on the right side of the car. It has a two socket plug on it. Pull the plug off and jumper the two sockets with a piece of wire. Turn the a/c on and the compressor clutch should pull in. If that happens,you are indeed low on refrigerent.

 

Turbonut - Thanks very much for the offer. I'll see what the problem is and let you know. I've been through Stockton quite a few times. Good sports car roads from there leading up into Sergeantsville out by the covered bridge.
Thanks to all for the help!

 

Turbonut - You were right. Low on Freon. I jumped the switch and the compressor engaged.

 

The problem now is, is it low or out of freon. You can check the schrader valve to see if there is any pressure in the system. If there is pressure you probably need only top it off. If there is none.....Major leak. Look for wet "oily" substance @ fittings and around compressor.
Caution:Be careful and keep eyes away from Freon!!!