A/C problem

My AC isn't blowing cold air, (fan blower is working) and the AC light is on the knob and the re-circulate button light is working. Is there a fuse that could be blown or do I just need to get my AC system recharged?

 

Visually check to see if the clutch kicks on. After that check the fuse and the relay. After that take it in to a pro to check pressures and if there is none then they would look for a leak.

 

There are very few things that I don't mess with on my Toyotas. Drivelines and AC systems are two big ones. There are some things best left to the professionals as @whippersnapper02 has suggested.

 

How do I check to see if the clutch kicks on by myself?
Does someone have to watch the AC compressor while I turn the AC on in the cab?

The fuse isn't blown and is there a way to check the relay at an Auto Parts store (Advance or Auto Zone)

 

Normally, The clutch will kick on and off during operations! I haven’t looked at my 4R how it’s works since it is only a year old! But on my previous car, Subaru Forester the coil in the clutch did burn so I replaced it 6 years ago with a new one( flea bay since Subi wanted to sell me a complete compressor) Symptoms i that case was, weak and fading to no AC( clutch was not engaging properly) At the time of installation the air gap is something important to mesure. Still working today!

 

To make it easier to see, use a paint pen or white-out pen and draw a line on the face of the compressor clutch, like I've edited the photo. When the engine is running, check the clutch rotates at the same speed as the belt when A/C is turned on.



If the clutch is engaging, you probably have a leak somewhere. Stone impact on the condenser is somewhat common. Some off road bumpers come close to an A/C line and can hit it when the radiator support bushings flex.

 

@3JOH22A
Can you put that photo up please

 

^Is the attachment not showing? Odd. Linking to it by URL:

 

I can’t see it on iPhone

 

I had an issue with mine last year, and it had to do with the dried / debris clogged up in-between the engine/trans radiator and the a/c radiator. Have you don't any puddle or water crossings ever? If so, that could be the issue. An indicator of this could also show that your engine temp is running slightly higher than normal.

 

I made a white make on the clutch, this is a generic AC compressor but pretty self explanatory,

 

The 10 AMP fuse was not blown and I bought an aftermarket relay at NAPA (made in China) for $23 and that did not fix the problem. The clutch is not kicking in at all, so I guess that means I need a new A/C compressor. I'll call and order one tomorrow.

 

Took off the black plastic cowl on top, then crawled underneath, dropped the RCI skidplate and looked. No blockage of any mud or debris whatsoever in front of the A/C cooler or the main radiator. Since the A/C clutch is not engaging, just going to order a new A/C compressor.

 

Could also be a low refrigerant level.

 

Does toyota use ac thermal switches?

 

Before spending tons of money, many other things can prevent the clutch to kick in, a refrigerant leak(low pressure state), the coil in the clutch burnt. Replacing the compressor you will have to check for leak prior replenishment so why not start by checking for leak?

 

I work on hvac systems at my job. If the compressor isn’t coming on, it could be just out of Freon, indicating a leak, but most of the time the line set would freeze and the coil, but this is automotive.

I’d take it in and get it leak tested, add dye, use a proper extraction machine that can evacuate the system and put in the exact amount without “seal savers or swellers” like at autozone. At least see if it holds pressure before condemning the compressor. Have you check your shrader valves? Any of those green and oily?

 

Stupid question, Is the serpentine belt wearing out by rubbing on the A/C compressor pulley since the pulley isn't turning?

 

The pulley is free and will continue to spin, but the compressor only spin only when the clutch engages

 

Thank You for verifying that!!!