I posted this to alt.autos.acura, the only response I got was to repost here - I hope someone here can help me out.
- posted
16 years ago
I posted this to alt.autos.acura, the only response I got was to repost here - I hope someone here can help me out.
Could be an overcharge so that the high pressure switch is shutting down the compressor to prevent a blowout. Check the high and low side pressures and see if they are consistent with the ambient air temperature (tables are provided in most service manuals).
Could also be an inoperative cooling fan allowing the condnsor pressure to get too high. Make sure the cooling fans are operating when the AC is on, and switching to high speed (or kicking in an extra fan, however that system works) at high temps.
How did you check the freon charge? By eyeball? ("...showing OK"). The only way to be sure is with a good set of gauges, measuring system pressure. The amount of refrigerant might be a little bit low. That can cause the suction pressure to go low enough to shut off the compressor clutch. There's a pressure switch to cut power to the clutch in the event that refrigerant is lost.
Sounds like your condenser core is probably dirty. Hose your condenser down with parts washer, and GENTLY rinse it out. A direct blast from a pressure washer can lay the fins over and block air flow. In fact, maybe someone already did that and it's what's causing your problem. If the fins are all folded over you might be able to get a "fin comb" at a parts store and straighten them back out. Also check for leaves and crap in between the core and the radiator or a failed fan. It'll cause the same problem. A dirty/blocked core will cause higher head pressures on the high side of the system, and if it gets too high the compressor will cut out. If that goes on too long it'll char the oil and cause mechanical problems. If that doesn't help, you'll need some pressure gauges or at least an IR thermometer go do much more troubleshooting.
MotorsForum website is not affiliated with any of the manufacturers or service providers discussed here. All logos and trade names are the property of their respective owners.