Automotive Air Conditioning Information Forum (Archives)

Kolbergk on Fri March 30, 2012 8:30 PM

Year: 2002
Make: Toyota
Model: Corrola
Engine Size: 2.2
Refrigerant Type: 134a
Pressure Low: 100
Pressure High: 100
Country of Origin: United States

My car stopped blowing cold air a couple months ago. Tonight I tried to put freon in to get it start working again. It wouldn't take any. I have a set of gages, and the reading is about the same on both the high and low sides. What does that mean? Thanks for your help. Ken

TRB on Fri March 30, 2012 10:18 PM

Is the compressor clutch hub turning?

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Kolbergk on Sat March 31, 2012 7:05 AM

Hmmm, no it's not. It can't. It's not there! The outter plate that engages the compressor is gone! Don't that beat all. OK, I think I may understand why there is no A/C, however, do you think that something else caused the clutch to fail? Like total compressor lock-up? Can I buy a new clutch? Can I replace it while the compressor is still on the car? Thanks!!!

mk378 on Sat March 31, 2012 8:25 AM

The small shaft in the center (which was attached to the clutch plate) drives the compressor internals. If it didn't break off, see if it still turns.

Kolbergk on Sat March 31, 2012 8:36 AM

I threaded a bolt into the smaller shaft and yes the shaft turns.

mk378 on Sat March 31, 2012 10:35 AM

It holds pressure and is not seized, so the compressor may be OK. You could try just replacing the clutch then.

Kolbergk on Sat March 31, 2012 11:54 AM

OK, I need some advice here. I went to the junk yard today and found a replacement plate that is missing from my car. It seems to fit nice, but I don't understand how this works. If I tighten the bolt in the center, isn't it always pressed up against the pulley side and turn continuously? Do I leave the bolt a little loose and leave a gap? How does this work? What actually allowes the plated to move in and out? Thanks!!!

Kolbergk on Sat March 31, 2012 1:01 PM

I tightened the bolt. It leaves about a .020" gap between it and the pulley. It seems to work. Pulls in when the A/C is on. Releases when off. What kind of pressures should I be seeing when the system is properly charged? The temperature is 80-81 degrees where I'm working. Thanks, Ken

Kolbergk on Sat March 31, 2012 1:17 PM

Currently my pressures are 20 low side and 120psi high side. The vent temp is only 72 degrees. This at 80 to 81 degree ambient. What would be good pressures at this temp? Thanks, Ken

Kolbergk on Sat March 31, 2012 6:10 PM

I've added a 12oz can of 134a to the system. Pressures changed to 30 and 175 psi. Vent temp dropped to 45 degrees. I'm still wondering what good pressures would be at 80 degree ambient.....
Thanks.

mk378 on Sat March 31, 2012 7:26 PM

The bolt needs to be tight or it will come out and the plate fall off. There are shim washers on the shaft to set the gap.

That seems like a good pressure. When the air is cold, it is time to leave it alone.

Kolbergk on Sat March 31, 2012 7:49 PM

Roger that. I'll leave it alone. Besides, at $15 a can, I'll gladly leave it be!
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