AC clutch not getting power all the time.

Could it be the HVAC head unit or is there an electrical relay that could be bad?

When it does come on the AC blows very cold. I'm scared to turn the temp up because if the compressor cycles off it may not come back on for 5-10 min if even at all.

Occasionally when it is working, driving down the road the compressor wont kick off and will start to make the car buck as the compressor is locking up.

I've been thinking about pulling out the HVAC head unit, but it seems buried in the dash.

Anyone got any other ideas on the intermittent AC?

Its getting hot here in LA! (Lower Alabama)

Britt

Are you sure its loosing power to the compressor? Have you checked with a test light for power at the a/c clutch when its not engaged?. If you are saying its making the car buck whens its locking up, that would sound like a compressor issue.

It there IS an issue with the control head keeping the a/c clutch engaged, then both cooling fans will turn off also.

There are 2 relays that control the compressor. One relay is in the relay holder under the hood, the other relay is under the dash.

http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s305/sadiemaerogers01/wire_zps8e9c1e4e.png

Hope the schematic works.

Hello;

Check the trianary switch which is located on the receiver/drier. The high side controls the relay for the A/C fan. Make sure the fans are running, to reduce pressure on the high side and locking up the compressor! Steven.