A/C Compressor and Clutch Assembly

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Ford Windstar. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: Identifying A/C Compressor Assembly

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

NOTE: Internal A/C compressor components are not replaced separately. A new FS-10 A/C compressor is installed only as an assembly. The A/C clutch, A/C clutch pulley (2E884), A/C clutch field coil (2987) and the shaft seal may be replaced.

NOTE: Installation of a new suction accumulator/drier is not required when repairing the air conditioning system except when there is physical evidence of system contamination from a failed A/C compressor or damage to the suction accumulator/drier.

The FS-10 A/C compressor has the following characteristics:

A ten-cylinder swashplate design utilizing the tangential design mount.
A one-piece lip-type seal (installed from the front of the A/C compressor) is used to seal it at the shaft opening in the assembly.
Five double-acting pistons operate within the cylinder assembly. The pistons are actuated by a swashplate that changes the rotating action of the shaft to a reciprocating force.
Reed-type discharge valves are located between the cylinder assembly and the head at each end of the A/C compressor.
The A/C compressor uses PAG oil or equivalent. This oil contains special additives required for the A/C compressor.
The A/C compressor oil from vehicles equipped with an FS-10 A/C compressor may have a dark color while maintaining a normal oil viscosity. This is normal for this A/C compressor because carbon from the piston rings will discolor the oil.

Fig 2: Identifying A/C Clutch Assembly
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

The magnetic A/C clutch has the following characteristics:

It drives the compressor shaft.
When battery positive voltage (B+) is applied to the A/C clutch field coil, the clutch disc and hub assembly is drawn toward the A/C clutch pulley.
The magnetic force locks the clutch disc and hub assembly and the A/C clutch pulley together as one unit, causing the compressor shaft to rotate.
When (B+) is removed from the A/C clutch field coil, springs in the clutch disc and hub assembly move the clutch plate away from the A/C clutch pulley.