Auto Air Conditioning & Heater Repair: Saturn Air Conditioning, coolant temp, engine coolant


Question
My duaghters Saturn had overheated. Inspection of the cooling system did not any obvious problems.
She had mentioned that the A/C was on at the time.
Initially, the A/C appeared to be operating properly, after several minutes, I heard the engine rpm surge / change (like the A/C was turned off.
I looked at the compressor, and the clutch was disengaged, (not turning with the pulley) also, the clutch was turning slowly backwards!
I checked the pressure on the lp side of the compressor and it was 150 psi!
Could not check the hp side as my adapter only fits the lp port.
It the engine is shut off with the A/C on, the clutch exhibits the same inidications as above and
it sounds as if the pressure is equalizing (venting) inside the compressor.

Answer
Hi Al;
   Easy!  Is the cooling fan(s) working?  My guess is that the cooling fan(s) is not working and that is causing the a/c system to go into overpressure, which shuts off the compressor like a bad habit.  Look at the  cooling fan motor, wiring and relay.  Also, be VERY sure that the ground path is good.  That is one of the few weak points in a Saturn.  The fan should turn on with the a/c compressor or shortly there after OR when engine coolant temp reaches 228f.  As it overheated, the fan citcuit is immediately suspect.
CarDocBill