Odd AC Problem

Hey guys, I've come across a problem with my AC system that has me stumped. First off, I have a 2008 Tacoma TRD Off-Road. The problem is that the relay for the magnetic clutch seems to have failed causing the clutch not to engage and provide cool air. I've already ordered and replaced the relay, only to find that the clutch still won't engage. Normally, I would check fuses, and those are fine, but I also used a set of jumper wires to bypass the relay altogether, and that was the ticket. When I plug in these wires, the clutch engage immediately and goes to work as though nothing were out of place, but when I put the relay back in, nothing. My testing of the relays indicates that both the new and old one both click and provide continuity when "on." Any ideas? Could I possibly just have the wrong relay?

 

How long since anyone has put gauges on it and checked the pressures?

 

That's a great question. I just bought the truck about 2 months ago and haven't checked that yet. I have a half full bottle that I think needs to go in the truck. Wasn't blowing cold when the clutch was engaged.

 

Unless you have gauges and know what you're doing, take it to a shop. I do all my own maintenance, but AC recharging, I leave to the pros.

 

Thanks for the tip.

 

This. And those low pressure gauges that are in parts houses don't count.

The low pressure switch is likely killing the circuit to protect the system. This is because lubricant is carried by the refrigerant. Not enough refrigerant, not enough lubrication.

 

That would make sense.

 

Not believing this comes up right now. I Have the exact same problem, but my pressure is good, both fuses & the relay have been replaced, I've tried by passing both the low pressure & hi pressure switch. Still the compressor clutch will not engage. Only way to get it engaged is with jump wire from batt. to pos. to compressor. Now don't get mad, that is on my Dodge Ram 1500 4X4, Reg. cab, short bed, not my Taco.

 

You get the hell outta here!
JK.

 

1st mistake- Bought a Dodge
2nd mistake- Still owning the Dodge
Asking for assistance in repairing a Dodge on a Tacoma forum- Priceless

Sorry, just giving you crap. LOL

 

No!! Ya'll took that wrong. NOT asking for help. Just couldn't imagine a nice 2008 Taco could have the same lowly problem as my old junky azz "99" Dodge. Not asking for help at all Nooooo. Don't even think such things.

 

How is the low pressure switch wired into the system? So the relay he bypassed is not just a 4-prong circuit opener?

I have AC problems too but a little different. My AC doesn’t blow could after a battery disconnect until I drive about 100 miles WITH AC ON.

 

Most A/C pressure switches are 2 pin plugs, & complete a circuit when pressure is adequate. When pressure drops, circuit is broken to the 2 pin plug. unplug the plug from the switch & put a "U" shaped piece of wire, plugged in to the plug, completes the circuit whether pressure is lo or switch is bad.

 

Do you know off hand where these pressure switches are? I’d love to try that.

 

right in front by the power steering reservoir, behind passenger side headlight. A small paperclip works great. Just had this happen on mine a few weeks ago, first thing I did was jumper the switch and compressor kicked on. I charged it up myself with $6 worth of refrigerant, no sense in paying a grease monkey to read a gauge.