Automotive Air Conditioning Information Forum (Archives)

OneAn9ryN00b on Fri July 11, 2014 1:03 AM

Year: 2002
Make: Buick
Model: Century
Engine Size: 3.1L
Refrigerant Type: R132a
Ambient Temp: 61
Pressure Low: 32
Pressure High: 35

So I need a little advice, I either have a clogged expansion valve, or a bad compressor. I vacuumed the system for 30 mins. So it was empty. Sticker says it will hold 2.25lbs.
When trying to fill it, it couldn't even take a whole 12oz can I let the car run for about an hour+, after about 45mins of filling, the ac compressor finally kicked in but didn't change my pressure's that much. By the end of the hour after the ac compressor had run for a bit I had low - 38 and high - 50 but for the most part there pressures were almost about equal around the 35-40 range on both high and low.

Is this a sign of a bad compressor, or a clogged expansion valve?

Thanks for your time
Preston

GM Tech on Fri July 11, 2014 7:43 AM

No expansion valve on an 02 Century- you have an orifice tube--- your v-5 compressor may be stuck in zero stroke- try reving it up and down a few times- if no help, then you'll need a new control valve that fits in rear of compmressor- or most will opt for the new compressor- depends on your wallet.

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The number one A/C diagnostic tool there is- is to know how much refrigerant is in the system- this can only be done by recovering and weighing the refrigerant!!
Just a thought.... 65% of A/C failures in my 3200 car diagnostic database (GM vehicles) are due to loss of refrigerant due to a leak......