Chrysler Repair: 134a re-charge: 97 T&C, compressor clutch, fuse box

Question
I have tried to add 134a to my 97 t@c but cannot tell if the compressor is running.  what else will keep the compressor from running?

Answer
Hi Roy,
The clutch that activates the compressor will come on audibly and visually if you watch it when a helper powers 'on' the AC from the control panel. If it doesn't come on then either the refrigerant level is too low or the circuit that activates the clutch has a problem.
That latter problem could be that a fuse-like device in the bottom row of such devices in the fuse box under the dash is 'blown' (that would be PTC #1 (9 amp)) at the left end of the row of 12 sockets) or fuse 11 in the power box under the hood is blown (15 amp), so check those two devices for condition. The last possibility is a defective compressor clutch relay, also in the power box under the hood, and you could try switching it out with another relay with the same part number in that box. So those are the issues I would pursue.
If the system was empty to start with you will probably need 2 cans of refrigerant to fill it enough to raise the pressure to the point that the sensor will give the ok to fire up the compressor. However, to effectively charge the system the compressor must be working when you try to add the refrigerant. To get around that go to the power box under the hood and remove the compressor clutch relay which is in the third socket from the front on the outside row of relays. Remove the relay and jump a wire from the front pin of the socket (number '30') to the  pin socket of the rear-most pin of the relay socket (number '87'). That should close the clutch so the compressor will then operate. Then add the refrigerant as instructed on your charging kit.
Roland
PS Please 'rate' my answer, and where you see the question about 'volunteer of the month' consider a 'yes' answer if this response has proven helpful to you. Thanks

PPS I changed the instruction for how to get the compressor clutch to close as needed to fire up the compressor.