AC Clutch cycles

Specifics:
1996 GC LTD. 4.0L auto.
I've never worked on an r134a refridgerant system, so I'm not sure if this is normal or not.

Turn the AC on and set it to low. Watch the AC clutch cycle on for about 2 seconds, then off for about 5 seconds. It continues to do this over and over. The low pressure line will get cool (some condensation forms) but not COLD. I put on a gauge and when the clutch cycles on (for 2 seconds) the gauge reads about 25psi. When the clutch releases, the gauge reads about 35psi.

I read that post about jumpering the low pressure switch...I haven' tried that yet, but probably will tonight. I am just concerned that perhaps this is a somewhat normal behaviour and that something else may be wrong.

Any help?

Ed
web/gadget guru

I believe that's normal behaviour to indicate a low charge of 134.
Jumpering the low pressure switch should confirm it.

well, I tried the jumper approach and now the AC is running cooler...
What I did is popped the connector ontop of that big cylinder thing on the left behind the battery, jumpered the terminals, activated the clutch and put almost an entire 14 ounce can of r134a in it...
The AC is noticably cooler...granted, it's no r12 freon, but hey...it's at least blowing something other than hot air!
Ed
web/gadget guru