A/C Compressor Clutch - Operation

A/C CLUTCH

The A/C clutch components provide the means to engage and disengage the A/C compressor from the engine accessory drive belt. When the electromagnetic A/C clutch coil is energized, it magnetically draws the clutch plate into contact with the clutch pulley and drives the compressor shaft. When the A/C clutch coil is not energized, the pulley freewheels on the clutch hub bearing, which is part of the pulley.

The A/C clutch engagement is controlled by several components: the A/C-heater control in the passenger compartment, A/C pressure transducer on the discharge line, A/C low pressure switch on the A/C accumulator, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) in the engine compartment and the A/C clutch relay in the Power Distribution Center (PDC). The PCM may delay A/C clutch engagement for up to thirty seconds.

The A/C clutch control system is diagnosed using a scan tool Testing and Inspection.

The A/C clutch components cannot be adjusted or repaired and must be replaced if inoperative or damaged.