318ti.org forum

Go Back   318ti.org forum > Technical, Maintenance and Modifications > HVAC

Notices

HVAC Heating, ventilation and air conditioning.

.
» Recent Threads
M50+manual swap bastard...
03-01-2024 10:00 PM
Last post by Andy318
Yesterday 02:34 PM
3 Replies, 45,157 Views
Cali Top owners: How...
07-14-2014 04:29 PM
Last post by Trusted-1
03-15-2024 02:37 AM
2 Replies, 42,442 Views
FOR SALE: 82k mile 1995...
03-15-2024 01:24 AM
Last post by di318
03-15-2024 01:24 AM
0 Replies, 37,954 Views
BMW E36 Compact rear...
03-13-2024 12:56 PM
Last post by BMW Welsh rally
03-13-2024 12:56 PM
0 Replies, 48,905 Views
WTB: 318ti with...
04-20-2022 08:57 AM
Last post by di318
03-10-2024 08:08 PM
21 Replies, 244,478 Views
The 318ti OBD-II engine...
10-19-2006 06:48 PM
Last post by Cybersid13
03-09-2024 02:12 PM
209 Replies, 677,171 Views
Reply Share/Bookmark
 
Thread Tools Display Modes
Old 08-05-2013, 08:03 PM   #1
stanlwi
Junior Member
 
Join Date: Apr 2011
Location: Chapel Hill, NC, USA
Posts: 14
iTrader: (0)
Default RIP AC compressor?

Hi guys, I was hoping someone will know what I'm dealing with re: an inop AC system. I originally assumed I could give it a charge and be back on top, so I bought the DIY hose with gauge and a couple cans of R134a. However, the low side pressure was over 100 psi even with the engine running and AC on full blast. I looked down at the compressor and noticed it hadn't engaged.

I figured I'd check to see if it was lack of signal (therefore probably a bad sensor) or if the compressor itself was dead. So, I jumpered 12v from the battery to the pin on the compressor. It switched right on! I checked the vents in the car, and I was getting cold AC! So, then I checked the low side pressure and it was around 40psi, pretty much right on given the 85 degree temps.

However, around that time I noticed that there was some noise coming from the front of the engine, presumably from the compressor. I revved the engine a little, and it stumbled badly returning to idle. I did it again (for some reason) and it stumbled quite badly, then made a loud buzzing sort of sound (almost an electronic sounding beep) and stalled. I immediately disconnected the power lead to the compressor. It (the inner part of the clutch) then slowly spun a few rotations, with the engine off. I think it spun opposite from normal.

What does this seem to indicate to you? I'm thinking it doesn't bode well for the compressor's continuing to work, but the thing that puzzles me is why I would have both a compressor on the brink of death, and an apparent signal problem. The system was not being powered on... I know it can turn the compressor off if the outside temp gauge or the pressure sensor in the compressor are not working properly, but I don't think it would be able to detect if there was some other issue with the compressor.

And, what can actually go wrong with a compressor? The seals must be OK as it was compressing. The bearings seemed to spin fine at least at first. I can spin the inner part by hand, and it feels smooth. And the clutch seemed to work. I don't know what to do next here. Any help appreciated!
stanlwi is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 08-05-2013, 08:29 PM   #2
hotmilk400
Senior Member
 
hotmilk400's Avatar
 
Join Date: Apr 2008
Location: Bethlehem, PA
Posts: 1,106
iTrader: (13)
Default

Mine did the same thing. The high side is leaking into the low side. I am in the process of replacing the compressor and hoping it fixes it. My parents Kia minivan is also doing the same thing. the seals are okay, but its an internal leak. it lowers back down to 40ish when you jump it since it just compresses it to the high side.

thats the best i can tell you, hopefully someone will be able to help you better.
hotmilk400 is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 08-06-2013, 04:11 AM   #3
stanlwi
Junior Member
 
Join Date: Apr 2011
Location: Chapel Hill, NC, USA
Posts: 14
iTrader: (0)
Default

Thanks for the reply. You don't think there's any chance that's normal operation- for the pressure differential to equalize when the compressor is off?
stanlwi is offline   Reply With Quote
Reply

Bookmarks

Tags
air conditioning , clutch , compressor , pressure


Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 members and 1 guests)
 
Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off

Forum Jump

Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
AC Compressor Removal Graphics in Bentley Manual gusgriff HVAC 9 06-21-2012 02:33 AM
AC compressor clutch fix?? weloveiggy HVAC 9 06-15-2011 09:29 PM
Length of 10mm for AC compressor PHL Misc 1 03-31-2009 05:20 AM
AC Compressor lines jon@theMshop Engine Swaps 3 02-20-2008 09:21 PM
Bad Air Compressor? AC bit the dust... bmwracerchick HVAC 5 06-16-2006 09:32 PM


All times are GMT +1. The time now is 05:26 AM.


.
Powered by site supporters
vBulletin Version 3.8.8
Copyright ©2000 - 2024, Jelsoft Enterprises Ltd.
Copyright ©1999 - 2024, 318ti.org
© vBadvanced CMPS v3.2.2
[page compression: 70.05 k/80.82 k (13.32%)]

318ti.org does not warrant or assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information or products discussed.