Hello,

I have a '95 Lumina 3.1L w/ ~150K mi.
When I turn on my A/C the compressor does not even try to engage nor do any of the engine fans turn on at the temp. at which they normally turn on when the A/C is on.

The 134a pressure is low...it measured 40psi at 95F. I figured this is at least enough for the compressor to engage but I could be wrong....not sure what the low pressure switch cutoff pressure is.

I suspect the A/C relay under the hood.
Is the A/C not turning on along w/ the fans not turning on a sure sign the relay is a good place to start or should I focus somewhere else?

Is the A/C relay failure a common issue w/ these cars?

Thanks.

My '97 wouldn't do anything this year after working fine since new. Static pressure, like yours, seemed enough to allow operation but before chasing demons I tried a charge...soon as I pulled the trigger on the cheapo suicide tap the system came on, and one can was enough for it to work perfect.

PS I swapped the A/C relay and one next to it, fuel pump relay, to eliminate that as the cause before I tried charging...you could try this.

If the relay is bad, your car won't run with them swapped

Takes 47 psi to turn on a/c--- your system is drastically undercharged- due to a leak-- most likely location--- compressor shaft seal and/or body o-rings

Thanks for the help. I'll try both ideas just to be safe.

The compressor is in fact leaking and has been for at least the past 6 months that I know of. It must be the shaft b/c the pulley is slinging oil all over the place under the hood.

Is there anything worth doing to fix the shaft leak or is a new compressor the only answer?

Any idea how long I have before it just dies or seizes up?...assuming I get it going again.

Thanks.

I reseal those compressors- a new shaft seal and new o-rings- and a sealing surface clean-up will fix it right up-- but most DIYs don't have the tools to open up the compressors....there is plenty of info on the web on how to do it- just look if you are interesting in saving 3 or 400 dollars...

Today I added 24oz. of R134a and the compressor and fans kicked on almost immediately when I began filling it. The 2 cans got it up to 40psi at 90F, so it is still a little low but cools OK...I'll probably add just under another can. System holds 2lb., so it must have been completely empty.

I'll see what I can find online and if I am up to it. If not, looks like Rock Auto sells some Reman. V-5 compressors for ~$230+shipping.

Thanks.