System Components-Functional Compressor: Notes

All compressors are belt-driven from the engine crankshaft through the compressor clutch pulley. The compressor pulley rotates without driving the compressor shaft until an electromagnetic clutch coil is energized. When voltage is applied to energize the clutch coil, the clutch plate and hub assembly is drawn rearward toward the pulley. The magnetic force locks the clutch plate and pulley together as one unit to drive the compressor shaft.

As the compressor shaft is driven, it compresses the low-pressure refrigerant vapor from the evaporator into a high-pressure, high-temperature vapor. The refrigerant oil which is used to lubricate the compressor is carried with the refrigerant.