Automotive Air Conditioning Information Forum (Archives)

Milanomike on Sat August 20, 2011 5:03 PM

Year: 2000
Make: Volkswagen
Model: Golf
Engine Size: 1.8L
Refrigerant Type: R134
Ambient Temp: 90F
Country of Origin: United States

Been searching around the site and learned quite a bit.

Here's the story: When the AC is on (compressor running), after a few minutes I get a rattling noise. Thought it was the serpentine belt tensioner as they can get loaded by the AC compressor, replaced it and things are better, but if anything the rattle noise is now clearer. Definitely only does it when the AC compressor is running. Since clutch bearing spins all the time and noise is only when compressor is engaged either the compressor ready to die or from my reading here, it may need oil. Not sure why it would need oil as system has had no work done to it in the 11 yrs I have the car. Been monitoring center vent temp and it blows at 41 F while moving and 47 F while at traffic light in the high humidity of the midwest (don't think it will do much better than that). Haven't checked pressure yet as it did not seem necessary yet. Thoughts appreciated.

Mike

mk378 on Sun August 21, 2011 9:05 AM

Do the condenser fans work? Too much high side pressure puts a strain on the compressor and could make it noisy.

Milanomike on Sun August 21, 2011 9:43 AM

Yes, the condenser fans work, but I just replaced the large fan last week as it was not working. Unfortunately, I don't know how long the large fan was not operational as AC cooled well and car did not overheat. Right now the fans work together as they should, low for normal cooling, but high speed when AC is running.

The service manual warns that non-operation fans can lead to AC issues, I guess this is what it meant. I assume continued operation could lead to the compressor failing and putting debris into the system?

Thanks for any input.

Mike