I replaced the compressor about 8 months ago, recharged and all has been well until a week or so ago. I think the problem was the clutch but it was just easier to do the whole compressor for me. Now the compressor does not engage again. I'm getting a really high (very) reading on the low side and the high side is not overly high. I just don't know where to start. My condenser/radiator fan is running at both speeds (replaced that a while back too) but it does not start up like it should when I turn on the AC. From what I understand, it should start up on low automatically when the AC is turned on. So no compressor, no fan with AC on.

Any steps anyone can recommend? Can someone tell me the relay jumpers (possibly with a picture) to engage the compressor manually so I can rule out the clutch?

Thanks,
Bill

 

Lets start with the exact year and model of your car please?

 

if you are not trained on a/c systems you should not stick your fingers in them

find a decent auto' a/c shop . . .

my humble opinion . .

of course you've possibly screwed it up by now ....

sorry to be harsh but A/C is not a good DIY project IME

 

Oops, Sorry.
2005 Cooper (not S)
Auto Climate control

 

I don't mind the harshness but if I paid someone to do everything that has broke on this car, I'd probably paid for 3 of them new. I have followed proper procedures on the AC on this one as well as other vehicles. I just want to know why the clutch won't engage.
This car has had a hole in the transmission, therefore replaced. Window regulators, door actuators, compressor and related parts, alternator, radiator fan, clutch, front end joints, power steering pump is due (fortunately covered now). That's just off the top of my head in 30 seconds.

 

So, rather than trying to force the clutch to engage, does anyone have any testing methods they would share to make the AC turn on?

I'm not assuming that my compressor/clutch is good even though they are less than a year old. But I need to know if there are any other things I could check as to why the system won't turn on before I take it to a shop.

Thanks

 

Like Capt BJ said I would take it to an AC guy. some will check it out for free or maybe a small fee. I also do most of the repairs and mods myself but I dont have the proper AC tools or gauges to to the AC. Some times you have to pay the price for expert services. I find if it takes special (expensive) tools for a one time fix sometimes its better to pay someone to get the job done. If it is something I'm going to use the tool more than a few times Ill get the tool Ii.e. serpentine belt tool or oil filter housing socket.