How can I tell if my a/c compressor is shot?

My a/c has never worked since I bought my 1990 Ford Ranger. I am trying to see what needs work so that I can know what I'm doing when finding a mechanic. Can anyone tell me how to check to see if the compressor works without many tools? Does it turn on and make noise when the engine runs or the a/c is turned on? Will the a/c belt spin? Does the pulley turn freely? Anything like that. Thanks

How can I tell if my a/c compressor is shot?
your a/c belt will spin regardless of if your compressor is shot but when you turn on your a/c the front part of the compressor(the clutch) will spin if it doesnt spin then its prally locked down and you should also notcie a drop in RPM when its turned on
Reply:if u look in ull see a pully that dont move if u try playin with the fuse or the switch then it should start spinin!
Reply:There is one test if the compressor turns. Carefully touch the pipes connected to it to see if one gets cold or hot.


Noise coming from a running unit will vary depending on whats wrong.


This unit is a cycling clutch system so the compressor will spin and stop when working properly.


I'm not going to give you too much because without knowledge, you can get seriously hurt.


There are proper procedures you need to know
Reply:Your system uses Freon (r12) and that contains the oil that lubercates the a/c system. No r1/2 and the system won't work becouse of a low pressure switch. If you see wetness at any of your hoses that is a sign of a freon leak. and must be repaired. Your compressor uses a magnetic clutch to engage


the compressor and will spin the clutch all the time. Have the system recharged and checked for leaks.
Reply:find the A/C pump then start the engine


turn the control knob to A/C max then set the temp control to the cold ( blue shaded area)


now go back under the hood and the A/C pulley %26amp; clutch should be turning. The Clutch is in the front of the A/C Pulley and should be spinning. IF it is than your controls are working and you have power going to the switch located on the pump it self. Now If its not then the A/C is in need of recharging with freon (134a).





Find a local A/C repair shop and let them check it for vacumme and discharge ( Hi side -low Side) these are the lines that circulate the Freon through out the system.


The Shop will hook guadges to the system then check it for leaks, pressure loss, bad A/C unit, bad condenser, or a bad evaporator under the dash.


TO me it Sounds like the A/C my be just low on Freon. An A/C will not operate if the freon gets below a certain amount. The unit has to have it to run because it uses an oil that is in the freon to luberacate the pump.

anther