Expert: Candido Figueroa - 7/13/2010

Question
Hello.

1998 Ford Windstar 3.8L with A/C.

System was empty/low so I added two cans of R134A. If I remember correctly, the system takes 54 ounces. When I was putting the 1st can in, the compressor clutch was cycling every couple of seconds, pretty regularly. After putting the 2nd can in, the compressor stopped cycling and didn't cycle once after that. I realize the system takes more refrigerant, probably 2 more cans, but shouldn't the compressor clutch be cycling regularly? Or is it too low yet?

Also, I had the interior air on high when doing the cans. The front air temp seemed to get cooler after the 2nd can, while the rear air was hot! I may be ahead of myself here because it needs more refrigerant, but just wanted to run that by you and see if you had some tips/advice for me. Thank you.

Answer
Hi Mike

The cycling switch has two functions 1st to let the compressor know that the temp is cold inside the vehicle and the most important is to disconnect the compressor when it is low on refrigerant.  You definitely need more refrigerant. It may not cycle again until you have  comfortable temp. inside the vehicle.