Question regarding testing an AC Compressor
 

Hi folks,

I have a used AC compressor that I want to sell. It hasn't been on my car for years so I wouldn't mind testing it to make sure everything works and the bearings aren't noisy, etc. Is there an easy way for me to do this or does it have to be hooked up to and A/C line? Would just trying to power it as a standalone ruin it?

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1259165750.jpg

You can run an air compressor with an empty system *for a little bit*. Even minutes is safe. Make sure that the inlet and outlet are clear and can get free air, and put voltage on the clutch to lock it up.

Offroaders use old compressors as actual sources of compressed air. ambient air in, a bit of oil from a tool oiler, dryer on the outlet and an airchuck. We run them for 10 minutes at a time sometimes, so testing things would be plenty safe.

Just so I am clear, can I put 12V's from a standard battery onto the leads or was the voltage/current to it regulated in any way? I just don't want to blow it up.

12V battery power is fine, run a wire right to the clutch. You don't need any fuses or anything for a test.

Lock up the mag clutch with 12V and try and turn the pulley. It should turn freely. Can't really test under load without it being hooked up with the rest of the plumbing.