A/C compressor stops running after several minutes at operating temperature

Tiny
NEAL TEW
  • MEMBER
  • 2002 CHEVROLET AVALANCHE
  • 5.3L
  • V8
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 175,000 MILES
When operating normally, A/C relay has 12V+ at pin 86 and ground at 87 as expected. When compressor stops running, there is no longer 12V+ at 86. If I inject 12V+ to 86 the compressor runs and the system cools.

Manifold pressures are cycling around 30/200. I've bypassed both low and high pressure sensors to no avail. System control is manual.

I would love access to a proper schematic to see what controls the relay input pin 86 and what other sensors there may be. Of course, any expert advice is certainly welcome and appreciated.

Thank you for what you do!
Sunday, August 2nd, 2020 AT 8:20 AM

3 Replies

Tiny
ASEMASTER6371
  • MECHANIC
  • 52,797 POSTS
Good afternoon,

I attached a diagram for you.

Pin 30 and 86 should have power with the key in the on position. Pin 87 is power to the compressor when the relay energizes.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-an-electrical-relay-and-wiring-control-circuit

Pin 85 is a ground for the control side.

If you lose power to pin 86, it is either fuse I circled in the diagram or it is the fuse box failing to provide power.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-fuse

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-wiring

Roy
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Sunday, August 2nd, 2020 AT 8:44 AM
Tiny
NEAL TEW
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
I'm happy to report it is fixed!

I had assumed that 86 was the control signal since it was intermittent.

The culprit was the IGN E fuse and holder. Some time ago I had used a fuse tap in that position for some accessories. I removed it several months ago when I improved that power situation. It appears the tap had thicker spade legs than a fuse and spread them slightly wider than spec. When I returned a fuse by itself to that position, it was apparently losing connection when the fuse box and/or this circuit got hot. The other systems on IGN E were rarely used so I had never noticed their failure.

Thanks again for the schematic and advice!
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Tuesday, August 4th, 2020 AT 8:02 PM
Tiny
ASEMASTER6371
  • MECHANIC
  • 52,797 POSTS
You are welcome.

Always glad to help.

Roy
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Tuesday, August 4th, 2020 AT 8:51 PM

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