Compressor Clutch: Description and Operation

The A/C compressor is a rotary vane design and is belt driven by the engine crankshaft. An A/C clutch drives the A/C compressor shaft. When voltage is applied to the A/C clutch field coil, the A/C clutch hub is drawn by magnetic force toward the A/C clutch pulley, which rotates freely on the A/C compressor. The magnetic force locks the clutch hub to the A/C clutch pulley to turn the A/C compressor shaft. When voltage is removed from the A/C clutch field coil, the A/C clutch hub moves away from the A/C clutch pulley and the A/C compressor shaft ceases to rotate.

NOTE: Whenever an A/C compressor is replaced, it will be necessary to replace the suction accumulator/drier.