AC Problem

[Josh318]

I have a 98 1500 318.
Last fall my AC just stopped working. I had it checked out, and there were no leaks. The freon level is fine. The AC worked for 15-20 minutes, then it would just quit. It would stay off for about 10-15 minutes, and then kick back on. It will do this continually, but doesn't keep the truck cool. I looked under the hood, and when the clutch stops, the air stops. However, if I take a screw drive, or something hard and press against the clutch, it reengages immediately.

The shop I took it to said the clutch/compressor needed replaced.
I had the freon emptied, and took my truck home with no AC.
Well, it's starting to get warm again here in Florida, and I need to get it fixed. I followed Chilton's advice and unplugged the plug that hooks to the condensor. I wired a paper clip to this plug and the clutch stays engaged indefinitely**with no freon**.
Chilton wasn't exactly clear, but the guy at O'Reilly's said if crossing the wires with a paper clip keeps the clutch going, then it's the switch at the condensor, and not the clutch.

So do I need to replace the clutch/compressor, or do I need to replace a small switch, or do I need to replace the condensor?
Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks,

[1thunder]

you are not very clear with what you jumped but sounds like you jumped the low pressure switch and if so this is only checking system pressure and if not enough freeon in system then there is not enough pressure in system to turn compressor on

[dramey_2004]

is your condensor or lines frezing up

[Josh318]

There is a plug that goes into the condensor right on the firewall to the left of the motor. I pulled the plug, and put a paper clip from one side(hole) of the plug to the other(hole) in the plug. When I jumped it, the clutch started, and it just kept going.

I don't think the lines are freezing up. The mechanic told me that the clutch heats up, and then moves out(toward the fan) just a hair. This causes it do disengage(thus, no AC).

[1thunder]

your condensor is in front of the rad your evaporator is in the heater box so your switch is low pressure switch and indicates a low pressure problem if compressor comes on by jumping it bottom line... I would get second opinion from different tech in diagnosing you freeon level or pressure