Hello
Recently I paid $500 to get a new AC condenser and lines (leaking) and vacuumed with a recharge. AC works great so long as the compressor runs but that's the problem.

The AC compressor will only run for about 5 to 10 min then turns off. Seems the hotter it is outside, the faster it stops working.

I'm sure the Freon load is good and the system produces ice cold air when it runs but won't keep running.

Anyone got any ideas on why this happens? I live in Southern Florida and I need that AC. The heat is coming....

Bill

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2000 Ford Ranger Ext Cab
v6, Flex-Fuel

More info needed. With engine running ~1,400RPM, fan on high, system on A/C normal and with outside temp over 65*, what are the low and high side pressures and in particular and especially, what are the pressures when it cuts out? Also need to know what happens after it cuts out, do the pressures drop to (and what are they) a point where it cycles? Details needed. Need this info in an effort to narrow down the issue, like, overcharged, air in system, moisture in system, goofy electrical issue, etc. BTW and if pressures are normal at times noted, I'd check for voltage at the compressor clutch with the system turned on and engine running, and if it makes the grade, check for good grounding on the clutch coil wire. This in the name of checking electrical.

BTW, how come the guy you paid $500 to for fixing you A/C didn't fix this?

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2004 Ranger FX4 Level II, 5R55E, Sonic Blue Pearl

Proudly JAP/RICE free since March 2000

Yes, I've been told the low pressure switch might be the problem. I plan to take it back to the mechanic that I paid to replace the condenser. For $500, it should be fixed.

Bill

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2000 Ford Ranger Ext Cab
v6, Flex-Fuel

Researching my AC problem, some have said my issue might be the low pressure switch.

My system works great for about 5 min. Then the compressor stops engaging. It shuts down for about 3 to 5 min then will work again for another 5 min. Seems the hotter it is outside, the faster it shuts down.

The system was leaking and I had a new condenser and lines installed. I'm sure the system is fully charged with Freon.

For those experienced with something like this, does this sound like a low pressure switch failure?

Bill

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2000 Ford Ranger Ext Cab
v6, Flex-Fuel

Assuming the freon level is right is a big mistake. You need to have someone put gauges on it to properly tell the charge level. The low pressure switch either works or it does not. Also swap the ac relay out.

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1999 Ranger 4.0 and extreme Snap-on tool fetish

See wiring here: http://i.imgur.com/7oK3IB7.jpg

Notice the "A/C clutch field coil" gets its power (from fuse 18) through a series of 3 switches and 1 relay. Check all of them. Or use a simple wire to bypass each one of them to discover which one is misbehaving.

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1997 4x4 Mazda B4000 SE, Ext.Cab