A/C problems, possibly fan clutch related

[RDThompson]

A few days back my A/C failed on my 08' 2500 QC . At the time I noticed an electrical burning smell but attributed it to something outside the truck. I thought I was smelling the transformer the Edison crew was replacing. I really didn't notice the lack of A/C until it got really hot around here. I did a little poking around and found the compressor clutch was not engaging.

Today I had a shop troubleshoot the system and it was fully charged . He couldn't get anyone to sell just a cluch so he replaced the compressor complete. Sadly this was unproductive and the compressor still doesn't engage. He can activate it manually with jumpers but when he does the fan clutch does not lock up.

Anyone out there with a depth of knowledge surpassing my own is welcome to contribute. Bearing in mind I know very little about A/C systems on vehicles. I know the basics and theory but not the little closely guarded secrets af the Freon Guild.

 

[Prairie Dog]

Have you checked for codes? (key on, off, on, off, on)
I suspect you have a code for the clutch fan.

 

[RDThompson]

Have you checked for codes? (key on, off, on, off, on)

I suspect you have a code for the clutch fan.

I should have mentioned that it was not setting any codes or the CEL.

 

[RDThompson]

Well that was vexing. I just returned from the dealer who sorted out my A/C problem. It turns out I was a pound low on refrigerant. Nothing at all to do with the fan clutch. The dealers mech suggested I have the shop that did the compressor check their machine for calibration.

I pulled the hub off the old compressor and the coil was indeed cooked . So at least that diagnosis was correct.

I drove home from the dealer in airconditioned bliss.

The dealer is Glen Thomas in Longbeach Ca.

 

[Prairie Dog]

Reminds me of living in the mid-west and getting the house AC checked every year. First year they say it's low on charge, second year it's too high. Same company too.

Glad you got it fixed.

 

[CurtShannon]

Same problem, different fix.

Ihad the same problem last year. Took it to a tire shop for a checkout. They couldn't get the clutch to engage and recommended I take it to a place that specializes in auto electrics. Figured they were all that good so I took it to one of the most respected places in town. They said the same thing. Also told me they could replace the A/C compressor becasue the clutch was shot, but there was some thing else that causing the lack of voltage at the pump. One of the modules in the fuze box was fried, probably from the burnt clutch or vice versa. Total cost of the electrical, parts and trouble shooting, was about $1K. Oh, and another $600 for the pump and installation.

Thanks for the dealer's name. I'm on my way to San Clemente next week. Nice to know there's a good dealer around while on a trip.

 

[RDThompson]

I bought two Durangos and a Cummins 3500 dually from them and they were great about the warranty and service work. I bought my current truck from another dealer because a the son of a good friend was working there. I got a great deal but their service stunk. But they went belly up during the restructuring of the Dodge brand.

I have to commend the guys that changed the compressor, they refunded the amount I spent at the dealer to complete the repair. Now they just need to get their machine checked.

I hope your trip goes flawlessly and you don't need to meet those guys.

 

[CurtShannon]

Me too! Thanks.