AC Problems, blinking...then hot air

(sorry for another AC thread, but I couldn't find my answer)

AC had been working awesome, then this afternoon blinking AC light. I replaced the relay, swapped with horn relay, blinking stopped but still no cold air. I have cleaned the air filter (behind glove box). The AC clutch is not engaging. What is the next step? Recharge?

This is "an emergency" I live in Key West and its been raining everyday...hot and wet. Appreciate any and all help. Another Key West problem is a good mechanic is hard to find...hoping I can troubleshoot this on my own.

I have a 2013 TRD Sport Prerunner. Thanks.

 

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/ac-clutch-failure-how-to-fix-blinking-light-squealing.448009/

 

This is what happened to me, Compressor shaft seal failed and leaked out all the freon and oil. The low pressure switch would not let the compressor cycle. I had to replace the Compressor and condenser and recharge my system. I used the Denzo compressor and it was a direct bolt up.

 

Check the IG1 NO2 Fuse 10 ampere That is what powers the clutch. Also you may be low on coolant which would prevent the clutch from energizing.

 

Here is an important question since I just went through this kind of thing. Stick your head under the hood and watch the compressor while someone hits the AC button. Does the metal ring on the face of the pulley begin spinning? If it does, it means your clutch magnet is actually working. If it does, does the smaller metal ring in the center of the pulley also spin, or spin at a different speed, or spin then stop? If that's happening (just happened to me), try replacing the hub as per the link a few replies up. Did the trick for me and a 15 minute/50 dollar fix. The rubber piece that holds the 2 rings of the clutch hub together seem to often fail. Good luck!

 

Thank you all. Going to order that hub kit.

 

Nice! So that ring engages when ac is turned on? If it doesnt, the whole clutch is bad. You can always film it with your phone and post to youtube

 

Dennis thanks for the heads up...the clutch does nothing. So it could be either the clutch or the whole compressor. Correct?

 

In my extremely limited experience, yes... it could just be the magnetic clutch is bad there is a way to test it.. try googling test Tacoma ac clutch. It involves disconnecting the electrical clutch connection and running a jumper from ther battery.. if it doesn't make the clutch snap, it means the clutch is bad. A clutch is like 150 on ebay and its possible to replace without removing the compressor, theres a video on YouTube

 

could just have a leak...my condenser was leaking and once it got too low it wouldnt allow the compressor to work. had the condenser replaced and its been working great since.!

 

Test AC compressor clutch:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ult2ivD30FM

 

excellent video!

 

Nice. If its only bad clutch you will save a bunch of money. Not sure if a shop will swap a clutch only but you can DIY it with snap ring pliers, a socket set and a lot of patience.