2001 Dodge Ram A/C compressor

Tiny
SHUCKAPEAFARMS
  • MEMBER
  • 2001 DODGE RAM
  • 5.9L
  • V8
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 196,000 MILES
Completely replaced entire A/C system. New Sanden compressor, new condensor, new evaporator coil, new heater coil, new blend door actuator, new air drier, both new high and low pressure switches, new orfice line, all new "o" rings and compressor seals, new suction line. Everything, over $1000 in parts. Installed all the parts, checked all the functions and everything was working properly. Vacuum pump overnight with -29 achieved. NO LEAKS! Used the proper SAG OIL as defined by Mopar and in the proper amount as defined by both Mopar and Sanden. 32oz R134a refrigerant. Bled line before introducing into system to assure no air or moisture. Everything worked perfectly for about a year. Ice cold a/c and the heat/a/c function from blend door actuator worked perfect.
Went to town other day and on my way in truck was blowing ice cold air. On way home, blowing ice cold air then all of a sudden hot air. Did not hear any strange or loud noises that might indicate a compressor failure. Got home and picked up the hood and first thing I see is compressor clutch not engaging. Checked A/C refrigerant and was a little low so I put a jumper wire on the low cut off switch which I've done before and it causes A/C clutch to engage however, this time it does not.
Any ideas? Would the compressor just fail that quickly due to the fact I know most of this stuff is being manufactured in China as cheap as cheap can get to accommodate those big shareholder profits. I don't believe a high pressure event would have occured therefore the high pressure cut off switch wasn't checked?Been turning wrenches for 50 plus years and have a moderate level of experience with A/C systems although I'm by no means an expert in the subject!
Thanks for any input as it will be greatly appreciated.
Thursday, May 7th, 2015 AT 3:42 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
HMAC300
  • MECHANIC
  • 48,601 POSTS
Check air gap on compressor clutch should be.020-.035" see pics.
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Thursday, May 7th, 2015 AT 4:25 PM

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