2004 Explorer Frequent AC cycling on/off while driving

It is normal for the compressor to cycle on and off. It might cycle differntly depending on the operating conditions.

Hi Mike,

Thanks for the reply. I know it is normal for cycling to occur with the AC compressor. What this is doing is abnormal. The AC runs normal until about 2000RPM after which it continuously cycles on/off on ~12 second intervals.

Any ideas??

The faster the RPM, the faster the compressor builds pressure in the system, so it cycles off to normalize and turns back on when needed. This will occur more frequently at higher RPMs. If if blows cold I would think it is just fine.

Is it cooling? If not, you may have low coolant or a bad AC cycle switch.

So your saying its on 12 seconds, then off 12 seconds, then on 12 seconds, ..... . A total clutch cycle time of 24 seconds? What was the temperature outside? The only standard test that specs clutch cycle time is to (1) Place vehicle in park, (2) Place A/C in Max cooling and fan modes (3) Hold engine RPM at 1,500 RPM, (4) Allow system to stabilize with interior temp at 70-80=B0F. The times vary widely depending on outside air temp.