02 PA AC not kicking on

[Smith1000]

I've encountered an occasional problem with the AC compressor not kicking on. The freon level is good-I have checked it. Pushing control buttons seems to do nothing for it, but I did notice that if I rev the engine, it will tend to kick on at that point. Is there a switch or sensor that could be faulty? It maybe has something to do with engine speed. Any ideas would be appreciated.

[HotZ28]

There is a pressure transducer "switch" that tells the PCM whether the system pressure is low/high. It is located on the compressor back side. What was your pressure readings with the compressor running. In addition, you may have a sticking compressor control valve.

[Smith1000]

Thanks. I'll inspect the compressor a bit closer tomorrow. It has been about 6 weeks since I checked the pressure. It was on the higher part of the green (or blue) range with the compressor running. Can't remember the pounds. I just went out to look for the gauge in the barn and can't seem to find it at the moment.

It seems like if I don't use the AC for a few days, when I turn it on, it does not kick on. If it has been working and I use the AC each day, it keeps working. Today, it did not seem to be kicking on. While cruising, I shifted into neutral and revved the engine and it started cooling.

[HotZ28]

Originally Posted by Smith1000

While cruising, I shifted into neutral and revved the engine and it started cooling.

Bingo, you probably have a weak clutch coil & the centrifugal force (rpm's) force it to engage It's better to replace the compressor & clutch assembly, along with the accumulator & expansion valve (orifice screen). I just replaced my PA Ultra compressor a few months ago with a NEW Deliph compressor, (which was cheaper than most rebuilt units from local parts chains.) I ordered everything from RockAuto Parts Catalog

Your 02 LeSabre would use Part # CS20009 which includes seals, Clutch, and Rings. Don't forget to have the installer flush the system, replace the orifice screen & accumulator & follow all recommended procedures to maintain the compressor warranty; Click Here

[Smith1000]

Thanks. It makes sense. I may test this a bit this afternoon. I replaced a compressor on one of my old Lesabres with a remanufactured compressor. It was about $200 and it was a fairly easy job. The hardest part about it was that the space was tight to work in.

[Smith1000]

When it begins to cool, there is a slight odor of dust. It is only for a few seconds. At idle in the driveway, it appears the compressor is engaged, but no cooling. I blasted out the front evaporator this evening and it seems to be cooling. I live on dirt/gravel roads and it was fairly clogged. Seems to work for the time being. I'll see if it continues to work.

[HotZ28]

Have you ever changed the cabin air filter?

[Smith1000]

Sure haven't. I didn't know there was one. I'll have to look for it. It is definitely due, I'm sure. The dust gets fairly thick around here on the roads.