Sorta off topic AC question

[JackConrad]

Well, this is only kinda off-topic because I do use my dually to get stuff for the bus. I need to recharge the AC in my dually.  When I hook up the gauges and turn on the AC, I cannot get a vacuum on the low side because as soon as the compressor kicks in, it shuts off for no pressure. My question "Can I jump 12 volt to the compressor clutch to keep it running?"  Thanks in advance.  Jack

[Nick Badame Refrig/ACC]

Hi Jack,

Yes but, the proper way to charge your ford is to scale in an exact charge.

If you start adding refrigerant, the compressor will eventually stay on anyway. Just be careful not to overcharge

it or you may blow the relief on the compressor.

Call me if you need 2
609-827-7331
Nick-

[luvrbus]

Jack ,I jump mine at the dryer shut down pull it off and use a paper clip for a jumper but most of the time it will start by adding a little freon

[Skykingrob]

Jack
I just had to replace the compressor on my pickup this past weekend, so this is fresh experience. Take a straightened out paper clip/straight piece of wire and insert it into the power side of the connector on the a/c clutch, then run a jumper wire from the positive side of the battery to the paper clip/wire. If correct. the compressor will start running. If doesn't start, either compressor is bad or have it wired backwards, just switch and try again. Then start filling the system with freon. When the pressure gets to about 25 on the low side, remove the jumper and the compressor should stay running. If not add a little more freon until it stays running. For my Chevy to cool right and not kick off high side or low side, I am running at 40 low side and 205 high side. For me, that was 42 oz of 134a but I replaced the compressor and accumulator.

HTH

Rob
91 LeMirage XL
Missouri

[Nick Badame Refrig/ACC]

Jack
I just had to replace the compressor on my pickup this past weekend, so this is fresh experience. Take a straightened out paper clip/straight piece of wire and insert it into the power side of the connector on the a/c clutch, then run a jumper wire from the positive side of the battery to the paper clip/wire. If correct. the compressor will start running. If doesn't start, either compressor is bad or have it wired backwards, just switch and try again. Then start filling the system with freon. When the pressure gets to about 25 on the low side, remove the jumper and the compressor should stay running. If not add a little more freon until it stays running. For my Chevy to cool right and not kick off high side or low side, I am running at 40 low side and 205 high side. For me, that was 42 oz of 134a but I replaced the compressor and accumulator.

HTH

Rob
91 LeMirage XL
Missouri

Hi Rob,

On a Ford, you don't need to power up the paper clip. The low psi device is a switch  and as Luvrbus discribed, just jump the two terminals
with the clip. The switch is N/O and when the right amount of freon psi is presant, it will close and complete the curcuit to the compressor.

Good Luck
Nick-