a/c clutch not engaging

[07BlueGT]

has anyone ever had their clutch stop engaging but can tap it and have it start spinning and start working idk what it could be just getting old when I want the air to blow cold I gotta pop the hood and tap the front of my ac clutch to have air

 

[TexasBlownV8]

Check the pressure charge; it is probably low. If the system has plenty of pressure/charge, it sounds like the compressor clutch may be sticking.

 

[michael.konor]

Along with what TexasBlown wrote, make sure the power connector pins (on both male and female) aren't corroded, loose, or burnt. The compressor needs a good connection so that it can provide the startup current needed to get it going.

 

[19COBRA93]

If the system is low, it will cycle on and off repeatedly. If you have to tap on the front of it to get it working, it's an issue with the clutch. Maybe the coil is getting weak (replaceable), Or maybe there's another issue with the pulley and hub (friction plates).

They're easy to take apart. No special tools needed, and you don't have to worry about freon or oil.

 

[07BlueGT]

A buddy of mine who has a shop says it's probably the clutch so I think I'm gonna order a new one where can I get the clutch assembly from for cheap working on a tight budget right now and how hard is it to remove and replace? the charge is full by the way

 

[1bad99]

make sure you shim the clutch cant be too close when not engaged and cant be too far when not engaged

 

[drive_55_not]

A buddy of mine who has a shop says it's probably the clutch so I think I'm gonna order a new one where can I get the clutch assembly from for cheap working on a tight budget right now and how hard is it to remove and replace? the charge is full by the way

It isn't hard, You can change it still on the car.

Leave belt on and remove the bolt for the disc ... don't loose the shims that are on the disc, remove belt.

Remove the snap ring, it will be a bit of a bitch with it still installed but you can get it out using snap ring pliers, a mirror and some patience. Depending on how corroded the pulley is it may slip off or may not and need a puller.

Remove screws for the clutch (not sure if yours will have screws from the shop drawing) and reverse to install.

As was stated, air gap is critical, too little the clutch wont disengage, too much and it wont engage.


http://iihs.net/fsm/?dir=336&viewfile=Clutch and Clutch Field Coil.pdf

 

[19COBRA93]

The center bolt, and snap ring are all that hold it together. Otherwise, it's pretty straightforward.