I have a 2006 Chrysler Town and Country mini van. Earlier this year on a few warm days we used the AC with no issue. Now that it is again hot we try and no luck. The light on the AC switch lights up as normal but I can't hear the engine RPM change as it does when the AC normally engages at idle. I have checked the fuse and the clutch relay both are normal and operational. What is my next step. The engine is a 3.3 L is that matters.

Thanks
Kyle

 

does the ac compressor turn on can u see the clutch move?

 

If the clutch is not engaging check for 12vdc at the compressor connector. If it's not there you most likely have a leak in the system and need to have the refrigerant serviced.

 

I will look at the compressor to see if the clutch moves. Its not in the best position to see it but I think I can manage. I have a haynes manual and have looked at the wiring diagram. I believe there is no other fuse nor relay other than the clutch fuse and relay is that correct. I will also see if I have 12 volts at the compressor.

Thanks for the help.

Kyle

 

U can easily check all of the items with one single test remove the clutch relay jump pin 87 and 80 if u hear the clutch go click then well clutch is good,wires are good u have 12volts going to the compressor. Then u look into why it wont come on by controls like aka low freon.

 

From experiance of my system, no snow flake light = no refrigerant. My compressor fails to compress (had guages on the system after regassing) but compressor cuts in and engine note is still affected. Would suggest compressor clutch not engaging.

 

Ok I have checked and I do have power at the compressor. I think it's the clutch. Anyone disagree? It never tries to engage.

Again thanks for the help

 

Sounds exactly like mine, unfortunately which is the condition I bought it in. Got it re-gassed as they were doing a free re-gas, pressure was fine.

Did the relay trick to try and 'force' the clutch to kick in and nothing. Apparently it's common where they seize up if they've not had refrigerant or used in a long time. That looks to be the case with mine so I need the clutch replacing, which looks like a lot of work due to location, etc.

 

Ok I typed too soon. I was rechecking and found the clutch is actually engaging. The clutch relay isn't engaging. What controls that. Would low freon charge not allow the clutch to engage? I haven't checked the charge yet. Any other cause?