A/C Compressor Clutch: Operation
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Dodge Sprinter. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The compressor clutch components provide the means to engage and disengage the compressor from the engine serpentine accessory drive belt. When the clutch coil is energized, it magnetically draws the clutch into contact with the pulley and drives the compressor shaft. When the coil is not energized, the pulley freewheels on the clutch hub bearing, which is part of the pulley.
The compressor clutch engagement is controlled by several components:
- A/C switch on the A/C-heater control panel
- Evaporator temperature sensor
- A/C pressure transducer
- Air temperature sensor
- CAN bus messages
The compressor clutch is de-energized under any of the following conditions:
- Blocked compressor (thermal fuse in the pulley)
- Low pressure in the system
- Low evaporator temperature
- Hard acceleration (WOT)
- High coolant temperatures