A/C stopped working.. where do i start?
 

Hi All,

I hadn't used the air con in my car in years, since it never really worked well...

However I just decided that I was going to upgrade the components, doing some of the things others on the board have done with success.

But when I went to turn on the air con for the first time in ages, nothing happened. Checked the fuse which is fine. Took the evaporator box apart, and there is no voltage at the plug to the evaporator fan.

Where do i begin to troubleshoot?

Thanks,
Adam

Adam,

Your very best starting point is with a Bentley.

However, here is the wiring diagram for the '86.

There is a relay in the smuggler's box next to the evaporator.

We upgraded using Rennaire products and are VERY pleased with the results.

45-50F at center duct on a 95-100F in palm springs.

Also, we reset the temp switch for a 10F on/off cycle preventing evaporator freeze-up.

You may pm me for additional data/info.

Perhaps a case of Crown Lager will help.

Good luck,

Gerry

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1268923451.jpg

There are 2 relays to check - besides the one in the smugglers box there is one on the fuse panel.

I checked the one on the fuse panel by swapping it with another one... seems fine..

the relay by the evaporator is fine too...

There is voltage at fuse 2.

Where else do I look? Can someone also confirm the relay type that I should have by the evaporator. I think this may have been replaced at some point not with the correct one.

If there is voltage on BOTH sides of the fuse, check for voltage at the relay coil(s) as per the schematic I posted.

I have replaced ours on several instances due to corrosion, when the fuse looked O.K..

As for the relay type, the evaporator relay is square with a tab that screws into the body.

I'll post a pic in the morning.

Good luck,

Gerry

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1269849709.jpg

What actually triggers the front condensor blower to operate?

Disconnect the power lead to the compressor and see if you have power to the compressor then go to the front and see if you have power to the front condenser fan. If you haven't used your AC in a while, the front condenser fan may be seized. Pull it out and bench test it with 12 volts.

If you have power to these two locations, then you should check the evaporator blower switch for power, if the switch has power then your evaporator blower motor may be frozen. The evaporator blower motors are easy to replace.

Why not just replace all refrigerant lines by buying pre-made ones or making your own. Then get a new compressor, flush the coils and replace the expansion valve, charge it then stay cool. I just rebuilt my system with a new rear condenser, new expansion valve, new front condenser fan, new drier and all new hoses. I obtained 38 degree vent temperatures while charging the system.

Good luck, do it all at once and don't piecemeal it.