A/C Compressor Clutch/Coil: Operation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Dodge Dakota. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The A/C compressor clutch provides the means to engage and disengage the A/C compressor from the engine serpentine accessory drive belt. When the clutch coil is energized, it magnetically draws the clutch into contact with the pulley and drives the compressor shaft. When the coil is not energized, the pulley freewheels on the pulley bearing, which is part of the pulley assembly. The compressor clutch and coil are the only serviced parts on the compressor.

A/C compressor clutch engagement is controlled by several components: the A/C-heater control, A/C pressure transducer, A/C compressor clutch relay, evaporator temperature sensor and the powertrain control module (PCM). The PCM may delay compressor clutch engagement for up to thirty seconds (Refer to ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULES ).