Question-------------------------I kind of suspected that was the problem, but didn't understand why the compressor kept stopping. I would have thought that it would run continuously if it was low on freon. Please explain. Thanks again.
Followup To
Question -
The subject car is a 2000 Ford Taurus with 77,000 miles. The AC blows hot. When the AC is turned on the compressor engages for about 3 seconds, then stops for about 3 seconds, then starts again for 3 seconds and keeps repeating this pattern. No unusual noises were observed. The fans system works OK. The car was purchased used in December 2004, so repair history is not known. Any suggestions will be appreciated.
Answer -
Sounds like a classic problem of a LEAK of freon within the closed A/C system. You will need to have an A/C facility add a can of freon and check for leaks with their electronic leak detector in order to find the source of the leak, repair the laek and add additional freon up to the manufacturers specifications.
autohelp
AnswerThere are PRESSURE SENSORS within the A/C lines that when a leak develops these sensors will either cycle the compressor rapidly and or when the freon gets low enough will STOOP the compressor from engaging totally.
Within the A/C system there is approx 7 ounces of refrigerant oil and when a leak develops not only do you lose freon you also lose refrigerant oil. These sensors prevent the compressoe from being damaged due to lack of refrigerant oil.
SLIGHT leaks usually do not require any additional replacement of refrigerant oil, But a major leak such as a blown A/C hose can cause 50 to 80% of refrigerant oil loss, Thus the reason for these pressure sensors.
Your problem due to the rapid ON-OFF cycling implies that you most likely have a SMALL leak and eventually over time the compressor will cease to engage once ALL the freon is lost from the system.
Hope this helps you understand your system.
autohelp
