RE: <E30> AC info needed

["Rodney Moore" <m6bigdog@xxxxxxxx>]

Don,
The A/C system has a low pressure switch in it that will prevent the
compressor clutch from engaging without sufficient Freon in the system.
There is also a high pressure and high temp(on the compressor) switches on
the A/C system.   Running the compressor without Freon or a sufficient
charge of oil will damage the compressor!!  You could jumper the low
pressure switch out to see if the clutch will engage with the ignition on
and the engine OFF.
Rod...

- --------------original message--------------------
Date: Sun, 21 May 2000 20:10:01 -0400
From: dstevenson <dstevenson@domain.elided>
Subject: [uuc] <E30> AC info needed.

Hello All
I am trying to revive the Air Conditioner (AC) in my 87 325IS. It has never
worked since I have had the car and I would like to get it at least to a
point where all the Vital signs are there and I can take it in to a shop for
recharge etc.
This is what I know about this thing.
Compressor belt is new, the pulley moves and all the running gear seems
fine.
Auxiliary cooling fan was seized up. I fixed that by drilling a few smallish
holes in the hub area of the fan and anointing it with WD40/PB blaster , got
that freed up (Thanks to Christopher  P. from Ottawa for that).
AC will not work unless the aux cooling  fan is functional (right?).
 When I turn on the AC nothing ever happens, I think I am supposed to hear
this thing kick in right?
Went to the Bentley for some electrical tests. I unsnapped the harness that
comes from the Compressor up to the siteglass on the dryer unit just behind
the passenger headlight. I could not get 12V there with the ignition on and
the AC switch turned on. Did I miss something?
They refer me to the diode that is screwed onto the compressor body. Look
for a failed (open diode) with the Ohmmeter). I got this thing unscrewed but
I was fumbling with the Ohmmeter not being sure if I tested it the Diode
properly. I connected the meter to the only lead on that little white
ceramic cube and then to a wire on the other side of the compressor
connected to what almost looked like an alternator carbon brush. Correct?
I would appreciate a little guidance here from those of you that have done
this fix.
Thanks
Don Stevenson/BMWCCA Boston Chapter
1988 325IS, (too much to list), should have stayed the street car. (Sharked)
1987 325IS, project, should have been the track car. (Sharked)
1988 Volvo 240 Wagon 5 Speed. (Green Wheels)
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- ---
Rodney Moore
BMW CCA #86830
Golden Gate Chapter
m6bigdog@domain.elided

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